Amanda Delsohn said she was intimidated by “big box” gym chains and lacked the skill and confidence to feel comfortable during her workouts. She also found co-ed settings daunting.
“I tried everything but wouldn’t stick with it,” she said. “I didn’t know what I was doing compared to others at the gym, and comparison is the death of all happiness.”
While living in California, Delsohn joined a Kaia FIT gym, a chain that originated in Nevada with programs designed exclusively for women. She liked it so much that about four years ago she decided to open a franchise in Hawaii, where her husband has family.
The Kaia FIT philosophy is built on the idea that camaraderie among women is a powerful motivator to achieving and maintaining healthy habits.
“Many women just don’t feel comfortable working out around men. They feel judged or intimidated,” said Delsohn.
Kaia FIT attracts women of all different ages, sizes and fitness levels. During workouts, everyone goes at their own pace and there’s no comparing times or other measurements.
“The ladies are encouraged to push themselves, to work harder than they did yesterday,” Delsohn said. “It’s not about competing with a neighbor.”
THE SETTING
The 1,300-square-foot, second-floor studio is in Kaimuki across from Koko Head Cafe. It’s reminiscent of a yoga studio, with mats, kettlebells and small weights lining one wall. There are no mirrors, and a giant chalkboard displays the day’s regimen.
THE WORKOUT
Warmups were done with a partner. The workout is similar in design to CrossFit. We did 10 sit-ups, high-fiving our partner on each rep, 20 jumping jacks, 10 squats with high fives, 20 jumping jacks, 10 planks, 20 jumping jacks and a quick power walk, jog or run around the block for three sets.
The workout included an array of core exercises, including squats, planks, push-ups, sit-ups and mountain climbers. High fives and support were in abundance in this group.
THE BENEFITS
The class provided a lot of cardio endurance work. Everyone was able to go at their own pace, as three different intensity levels were demonstrated for each exercise. Delsohn suggests that newbies start at the low-impact level and work their way up.
The female-only class provides a setting for participants to network, discuss nutrition, share food journals and recipes, and plan outings.
USER REVIEW
Summer Kahananui said that as a result of her Kaia FIT workouts, she went from being a sedentary couch potato to training for a half marathon. She’s been going to classes for about 3-1/2 years, during which time the 32-year-old Waimanalo resident lost 55 pounds and more than 16 inches in her measurements.
“When I first started, I couldn’t walk without getting winded, and now I’m able to run,” she said. “I didn’t go to the gym because I felt uncomfortable because I was bigger. At Kaia, there’s so much diversity, different ages and sizes. It’s a sisterhood and everyone’s working at their own pace.”
OTHER WOMEN-ONLY OPTIONS
This list is by no means comprehensive, but here are three other fitness programs designed for women.
>> Try Fitness Hawaii
For roughly 20 years, personal trainer and triathlete KC Carlberg led women-only boot camps that incorporated running, hiking, cycling and swimming. She recently switched strictly to an online format, devising programs for women who are training for specific events.
“There’s a certain energy when just women are together. They help to push each other. They become more confident in their skills and fitness,” she said.
Carlberg, director of the Kapiolani/Straub Women’s 10K and founder of the Na Wahine Sprint Triathlon, provides weekly exercise videos to clients with reminders on proper form and technique. A mileage log keeps track of their progress.
Costs for her online programs range from $100 to $150 a month, which includes unlimited calls and texts for advice and assistance, a workout plan and basic nutrition guidance. Visit tryfitnesshawaii.com or email tryfitnesshawaii@gmail.com.
>> Curves
The international Curves chain became wildly popular in the 1990s and is known for its 30-minute, total-body circuit workout using strength-training machines that work every major muscle group. Balance and flexibility also are emphasized.
The gym operates on a drop-in basis with coaches on hand to help with form and offer encouragement. Locations are in Aiea, 488-7722, and Kaimuki, 734-4300. Members pay a monthly fee of $39, plus a service fee for a one-year contract; senior discounts may apply. Call for more information.
>> Hawaii Pacific Health
Classes in kickboxing, aerobics, tai chi, hula, strength training and self-defense are some of the options available at the Kapiolani, Pali Momi and Straub clinic locations. Click here for complete class listings and to register.
“Be Well” spotlights health and fitness topics and activities. Reach Nancy Arcayna at narcayna@staradvertiser.com or call 529-4808.
