Spooky season is upon us

It happens every year

When work and school are back on track

There should be no more fear

We need to be aware

Of the choices that we make

For if we don't and we complain

Mike C will surely wake...

(Please let the poor guy sleep)

It's scary to begin

But imagine what could be

To defeat the crazy monsters

And start to finally breathe

Commit to excellence

Put the emphasis on you

PEX will be your guide

To show you all that you can do!

Happy October!

As a personal trainer and a mother of four, I understand the struggle. Between shuttling kids to their activities, managing work, and running a household, many of us often find ourselves wondering when we last had a moment to ourselves. Strength training may seem like a luxury to many, but if you're in perimenopause or approaching it, it's no longer optional. In fact, I have found that it is practically a necessity in order for me to survive and stay sane.

Perimenopause—the challenging time when hormones fluctuate, muscles seem to vanish overnight, and sleep feels elusive—requires a secret weapon. That weapon is strength training. Forget the treadmill; we’re focusing on dumbbells, resistance bands, kettlebells, and weight-bearing exercises. During perimenopause, your body undergoes numerous changes. Random chin hairs appear, night sweats become common, energy levels wane, forgetfulness sets in, and hot flashes strike unexpectedly—just to name a few. Hormones in perimenopause are like toddlers—unpredictable, moody, and determined to ruin your day. With estrogen levels bouncing around and finally dropping, your body’s like, “Guess I’ll just store fat now and make her bones weaker.”

Strength training, however, swoops in like the superhero you didn’t know you needed. By lifting weights, you’re telling your body, “Hey, we’re not done here! Keep building that muscle!” Your body will listen, preserving that hard-earned muscle and boosting your metabolism, so you burn more calories even when you’re binging the Golden Bachelor.

Perimenopause also comes with an extra-special gift: mood swings. One minute, you’re fine, and the next you’re ready to cry. Luckily, lifting weights also releases endorphins, the magic little chemicals that say, “Hey, you’re doing great, keep going!” So whether your kid is having their 47th meltdown of the week, your house has turned into teen party central, or Karen Read is declared a mistrial, you’ll be less likely to lose your cool, thanks to those post-workout feel-good vibes.

Strength training can also help with sleep. Can’t remember the last time you slept through the night and those night sweats are keeping you up? You are not alone. Regular exercise can help you snooze like a champ (or at least like someone who doesn't wake up five times a night or at 2am like Mike).

Another gift of perimenopause is that lovely midsection weight gain. Hormones suddenly decide to throw all the fat right to your belly. With strength training, you can fight back. More muscle equals more calorie burning, even when you’re just sitting down eating dinner (or snacking on the kids' leftover fries). By staying consistent with weights, you’ll keep that belly fat at bay and feel stronger while doing it.

Ever feel like bending over to pick something up is now a major life decision? Strength training also improves your flexibility, mobility, and balance. Your kids will be super impressed when you easily haul in all the grocery bags (or bottles of wine) at once. No more multiple trips from the car!

So there you have it—strength training is your perimenopause survival guide. Lifting weights two to three times a week is a game changer. It’ll keep your muscles, bones, and sanity intact. Lifting weights with friends or a great trainer is a bonus, too. Lift a little, laugh a LOT, and embrace this stage with the power of a supermom with a set of dumbbells. I can’t wait to see what Menopause has in store for me…Special thanks to weight training, perimenopause has been lovely.

September Events Recap!

WESTWOOD DAY 2024

Although we got a little wet (okay, maybe "soaked" is a better word), Westwood Day was great! Hopefully, next year will be a bit nicer. We had a fun day meeting members of the local community and spreading love for fellow small businesses. Thanks to all who came in support!

Our poor prize wheel.....we tried so hard and yet, Mother Nature prevailed.

MEDFIELD DAY 2024

One of our favorite days of the year! What a beautiful day for Medfield Day, thanks to everyone who joined us and for the amazing PEX team for keeping us up and running all day long - we couldn't have done it without you. It was an amazing time to connect with everyone and are super proud to be part of all things, Medfield.

Jill Katsiroubas is a certified personal trainer with the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), a boxing coach, and mom of two. Her love of boxing and kickboxing brought her to teach private, semi-private, and large group classes for over 8 years. Jill joined Forged Fitness with Alex Badlissi in 2024 and specializes in group boxing as well as private and semi-private training.

Interested in a class OR curious about scheduling a consultation with Jill?

Register For a Class: CLICK HERE

Request a Consultation: CLICK HERE

Organized by PEX client, Craig Lewin:

Right from the official website: swimbeyondthebreakers.com

"Mark your calendars for November 9th and 10th, 2024, as open water swimmers and coaches from around the globe converge at Bentley University! This is your golden opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of shared experiences and cutting-edge expertise, all aimed at advancing the open water community.

Whether you're just beginning your journey through triathlon or aspiring to join the elite ranks of marathon swimmers, Beyond the Breakers is the unmissable event that will propel you to new heights!

Held at the Bentley University Conference Center in Waltham, Massachusetts, this conference promises two action-packed days of invaluable learning and networking.

Tickets are expected to sell out fast! Don't miss your chance to learn from the best in the field—with over 20 sessions you are sure to walk away with some key insights to help you achieve your goals!"

Join us for another fun Spooky Walk at PEX Needham Center! Sign up online and come trick or treat at your favorite fitness facility. Who knows, you might even see some of the trainers all dressed with with a LOT of candy. See you there!

Owner of Lindsay Miller Counseling and Performance, Lindsay is working to provide a more thorough approach to mental health for high achievers, athletes, AND performers.

Want to learn more: CLICK HERE

We're Accepting Applications!

PEX is accepting applications! Know of any fitness professionals in the area looking to advance their careers in the fitness, health and wellness industry? Send them our way! They can fill out this form to schedule an interview.

The results are in from last month's poll...you all really do remember the 21st night of September.

What's the problem with twin witches?

You never know which witch is which.

Those who get it...get it

Enjoy the sweater weather,

KW