fbpx

Just Do It: Erica Leonard

Owner/head trainer, Core 954, Pompano Beach
Website: core954.com

Was there something in your past that inspired you to become more passionate about fitness?
I grew up modeling and acting at a young age, so keeping fit was kind of my thing. However, I really started taking it more seriously after a car accident when I was in my 20s, which left me with bad injuries to my wrists, neck and knees. I studied Pilates for my rehab to bring my body back. The pain I experienced during the [recovery] was debilitating at times. But with a bit of patience, knowledge, practice and peace of mind, I began to heal. I truly believe it was the dedication to myself and my daily fitness routine. Today I am stronger and more fit than ever.

What distinguishes your workout routine?
Over the last 10-plus years I’ve been honored to train [world-class] athletes, including Olympic hopefuls and professional boxers. Given my Pilates background, I liked to stay true to strict core conditioning and powerhouse strengthening. This was my main focus with my athletes. I saw how it would give them speed and power like nothing else.
Core954 is a Lagree Fitness studio. This incredible 45-minute workout is a perfect combo of strength training, yoga and Pilates—all integrated into one machine. The first time I took a Lagree class, I felt like I had never worked out a day in my life. … We target muscles in a safe and effective way by hitting the slow-twitch muscle fibers at precisely the perfect four- to five-second count moves. At Core954, you will never hit your plateau. The workout is never the same, and we’re constantly tricking the muscles. As a result, there is less injury over time. I like to consider this the workout for longevity.

In addition to exercise, how else do you try and lead a healthy lifestyle?
1. Stress is a silent killer. It will eat you alive and spit you out. I try to eliminate this from my life, whether through meditation, taking a swim, watching the sunrise, writing poetry or journaling. There are so many ways to create peace in your life, it all starts with ridding yourself of anyone or anything that doesn’t complement you or make you smile.
2. I’ve had my share of sleepless nights, especially with two little girls. I know for a fact that rest, even if its just micronapping, can help recharge the body.
3. Fresh-pressed juices, lots of water—and, occasionally, wine.
4. I believe it’s so important to surround yourself with like-minded people, friends and family who make you shine like the brightest star.

Words of wisdom: “Find a workout you love, so it doesn’t seem like it’s a chore. Switch things up so you don’t get bored. Don’t be afraid to try new things that aren’t in the gym. Just keep your body moving. … Smile often, love lots—and repeat daily. All else will fall into place.”

 

Photography by James Woodley
Creative Direction by Melanie Smit
Art Direction by Evelyn Suarez
Shot on location at Margaritaville Beach Resort, Hollywood Beach

You May Also Like

Healthcare Investor Hosts Fundraising Event for Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis

The evening will feature a Frank Sinatra impersonator, networking and a chance to raffle prizes from Amaira Med Spa & Surgical.

Editor’s Letter: Staking Out the Middle Ground

The political partisanship in Florida is pretty stark these days. However, the career of John P. “Jack” Seiler is a reminder that wasn’t always the case. Seiler, who is featured on this month’s cover, served a key role as a fiscally conservative Democrat during his time in the Florida statehouse. Some people thought he was

Kevin Gale
Hit the Road? Not This Jack

Seiler has had a long and distinguished public service career serving South Florida.

Justin Weinstein Is on a Mission To Change the Attorney-Client Dynamic

A new brand movement – “The Law of We” – aims to foster proactive relationships between attorneys and their clients.

Other Posts

Editor’s Letter: Saluting a Good Friend

We will honor Kevin Kaminski’s legacy in all that we do.

Living Through Giving: Victoria Martoccia

South Florida philanthropists share insights into their charitable work and the life lessons that have influenced their endeavors.

Living Through Giving: Heidi Alzate Kaufman

Discover philanthropic pursuits of South Florida benefactors and their life lessons that shaped their charitable actions.

Living Through Giving: Eric J. Vainder

Discover the life lessons that shape the charitable endeavors of South Florida philanthropists.