High-energy, tons of charisma, and a hustle mentality are just a few ways to describe Johanna Thompson. This Pilates instructor can be found around the town bringing her special blend of Pilates to her workouts. We caught up with Thompson for a Quick 10 interview, but you can also follow her on Instagram – @junglejohanna.
Tell us about yourself - where are you from andhow did you find your way to the 305?
I’m originally fromJersey. I started off my career as a dancer and model in NYC. I then moved toSouth Florida to pursue a degree in fashion. I ended up in Miami when I gotsigned to Wilhelmina in 2009.
How did you get your start in fitness and as aninstructor?
I was a dancer andstarted practicing Pilates in 2008 as a way to slim my thighs down. I took along break and auditioned for Jetset Pilates in 2016 and the rest is history.
What is your favorite part of being a fitnessinstructor?
Seeing people reachtheir goals and change their bodies.
How do you stay full of energy throughout theday?
I try and stay awayfrom coffee because it makes me crash. I’ve been drinking iced oat milk matchalattes for the last six months. Game changer.
What is one fitness myth you would like to bust?
That you shouldworkout everyday. Your recovery is the most important part of the workout. Hotyoga is a great way I recover where I can still sweat but not overstress mybody.
Tell us a little bit more about your specialty aninstructor and what people love about the way you teach it.
I have a more HIIT approachto Pilates. Pilates can be used as a method of stretching, but I tend to addmore circuits and faster transitions. I do my reformer Pilates at The PilatesPlace where I am continuing my education. My mat classes are at Sol Yoga whereI teach a hot Pilates three times a week.
Besides fitness, what’s one thing you’repassionate about?
Getting this paper.
What is the one thing you do every day to stayfit?
Honestly my workoutsare really inconsistent because of my training schedule. I have really goodgenetics so unfortunately I can sometimes get away with a little. Sometimes Irun six miles, sometimes I eat French fries. Balance. I wish my scheduleallowed me the freedom and energy to workout daily, but between training andmodeling, sometimes it doesn’t happen.
How do you practice mental health in youreveryday life?
I would say mentalhealth is my priority over having abs. Positive self talk, healthy personalrelationships, and a really safe home environment keep me spiritually fit. Ialso attend AA meetings regularly as I have been sober for almost nine years inApril. Once your mind is right, the body will follow.
What's your go-to healthy and cheat meals?
I love hard boiledeggs and vegan yogurt. I can’t cook and I’m always on the go, so fruit andwater are staples. For cheat meals, I’ll eat anything as long as there’s nodairy involved.
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