Ask Ashley's Trainer

I wanted to get FIT-NASTY (my made-up word for "in shape"), but I felt nervous about showing up in a gym and having no clue what to do. I decided to enlist the help of a personal trainer to show me the ropes. That's not a metaphor: my trainer, Andy Santos, literally makes me do embarrassing things with ropes on a weekly basis. He's based in Chicago, IL, and he enjoys making people drink gross protein shakes after their workouts. I asked him a few questions about working out.

Ashley: If I want to get in shape, what's the first thing I need to do? How do I find a routine I can actually stick to?Andy: Even if you didn't have to lose weight, I would suggest you find something you really enjoy doing. Suffering through a workout is never fun. Weight training and cardio can be fun and challenging at the same time. Just make sure to start easy, then work your way up as you get into better shape.

What if I have never really worked out and have no FRICKING idea what I am doing? Will people stare at me in the gym and gawk?

Most people in the gym are feeling just as awkward as you are. The best way to look REALLY cool in the gym is to hire a personal trainer. (Although he may laugh at you!)

I'm a teenager debating getting a trainer. What are some important things for me to consider?

First, sit down and talk with her (preferably with your parents). If she seem unsure about herself, then she's probably not very good. You want to hire someone who looks and sounds very confident. I suggest starting with a program where you train two or three times a week, with a good mix of weight and cardio. Your trainer will come up with lots of fun, challenging things to do, because that is what you pay her to do.

How do I get motivated? I'm so good at sitting on couches!

Try this: Take a photo of yourself before you start working out. Then look at your picture and visualize what you would like to change about it. Try to imagine looking at a picture of a “better version” of you. Just remember you can’t change your face—you’re kinda stuck with that.

When should I expect to start seeing some results? When will my friends notice that my butt looks smaller?

If you start a workout routine on your own or with a trainer such as myself, you should expect to see results in about two to four weeks! If you work out really hard but eat all sorts of crap, your behind will NOT shrink. Good nutrition and a good exercise program go hand in hand with an awesome bod.

How important is your attitude when it comes to training? How do you keep a positive and open mind?

The best way to change your emotional state is to “raise your heartrate.” How? By working out!

Writer's note: This is the WORLD's MOST TRUE STATEMENT I have ever read. Going to the gym is the most mentally therapeutic thing you can do! Andy is the wisest person I’ve ever worked out with!

What is your personal favorite kind of exercise? Are there any exercises you dislike or would avoid?

I LOVE intense workouts with kettlebells. They’re not that hard to learn, but very hard to master. I stay away from most of the machines because they bore me.

Once I start a training program, should I change what I'm eating? What foods do you recommend?

During the week I eat lots of protein (at least 20-30 grams per meal) and veggies, and I cut down on carbs like white bread, sugar, rice, and pasta…and of course NO junk food.  However, from Friday night to Saturday night, I eat EVERYTHING I can get my hands on! But only until Saturday night. Sunday through Friday I am very strict with my diet.

How do I avoid ice cream binges?

The secret is to “schedule” your binges so that you are in control. You deserve a treat once a while. Scheduling your binges will keep you from going overboard.

How was training Ashley Spencer? She is kind of a loudmouth. Does she ever really listen to you? Should I take anything seriously that she's written in this series so far, or is she full of BS?

Ashley is loud, yes, but she has also worked very hard to lose weight and get in the best shape of her life. Her hard work and dedication have really paid off—when she listens to her AWESOME trainer, that is!

Interview has been edited for clarity.

If you’d like to learn more about training and fitness, you can check out Andy's website at www.betterposturesecrets.com. You can also email Andy at andy@betterposturesecrets.com.

Catch up with past posts in the series: Ashley Gets Skinny