Who's that with great style and the million-watt smile? None other than Lauren Naomi! Spin instructor, HIIT trainer, and IRL BFF with fellow TSE ambassador, Helen Barlow, Lauren shares with us how she got her start in the world of fitness.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED TRAINING?
I grew up performing and studied Musical Theatre to a degree level. Movement has always been such a vital part of my life so I suppose you could say I’ve been training ever since I started tap dancing at 10 years old.
HOW DID YOU TURN IT INTO A CAREER?
I struggled a lot as a performer. My mental health was pretty bad, I had low self esteem as you genuinely face a lot of rejection and unfortunately you don’t receive many answers as to why.
I was lucky enough to be a working performer for a few years, toured in shows and performed in the West End - however I wanted a more stable career path. That’s when I began to see that I could achieve through fitness!
DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE: STRENGTH, PILATES, BARRE, MORE?
To be honest I love all movement. I love being able to move my body to the beat of the music and connect with my breath. I’m naturally an energetic girl so I began teaching cycling in 2019 and haven’t looked back since.
WHO INSPIRES YOU, WHY?
My mum is my inspiration. She is undeniably the hardest worker I know and gives her all to every single thing.
WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT FITNESS GOALS?
Currently my fitness goals are to stay as consistent with my training as I can. I believe there is a lot to learn through the power of consistency and discipline. Motivation comes and goes, but consistency is where the payoff comes from.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR PEOPLE NEW TO FITNESS?
Don't be afraid to be a beginner. We all started somewhere, and we were probably pretty bad at first. Practice is everything. Enjoy it and don’t take yourself too seriously.
WHAT'S THE BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED?
Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
I’m such a bookworm. I love to read fiction, non fiction, all of it! Lighting a candle and just relaxing into a good book, yes please.
WHAT DOES A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE MEAN TO YOU?
A truly healthy lifestyle to me is all about balance. I’m such a strong believer in working hard and playing hard. We get one life so let’s live it the best we can.
QUICK-FIRE:
1. Favourite workout music?
Hands down, it’s gotta be hip hop.
2. My dream Sunday would be…
Chilling with friends or family. Wholesome roast dinner vibes.
3. What's something everyone should know about you?
I’ll always make it fun – whatever it is.
4. What's something that's always in your gym bag?
Electrolytes. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.
5. Favourite brand at TSE?
There are so many to choose from, but I really love Year of Ours and Alo Yoga!