Nutrition consultant, wellness coach and exercise specialist Angie Fenstermaker reflects on the journey that led to her new endeavor with Lehigh Valley Yoga Tone. She also shares her habits, her favorite local eateries and her goals ahead.
Describe your personal philosophy when it comes to overall wellness!
Wellness goes beyond proper nutrition and moving the body—although I place these on the top of my wellness priorities. Living well is paying attention to what you read, watch and the circles you are involved in. Wellness is a practice we must work on for the rest of our lives—and not for a 21-day stint or a three-month challenge.
How did your fitness journey really begin?
My fitness journey began when I discovered weight training! It was in high school that I took a weight training class and fell in love with the individualized sport where I could compete against myself. It stayed with me through my college years, and into my 20s and 30s when I was personal training and earning nutrition degrees. I became fascinated with how my physique could transform, merely with the science of foods and resistance training.
How has your fitness journey evolved?
I became a national-level figure competitor, at a time where there were just a handful of us in the Valley competing. My competition success led me to develop the Lehigh Valley’s first fitness competition team, where I was the nutritionist and trainer for a successful team of women competing in shows around the tri-state area. My nutrition and fitness have since evolved into preventative disease, active aging, body recomposition, cancer support and helping all walks of life to create a nutrition and exercise plan that is both realistic and sustainable. I love showing clients that it is possible to transform your health and desired body goals without having to go to extremes, nor resort to tracking and fad programs.
When you reflect on the work you’ve done through Angie’s Way Nutrition, what stands out to you? What are you the proudest of?
I have stayed consistent and steadfast in my approach and delivery of nutrition. This is an industry where everyone wants to jump on the latest fad, and authorities within want to sell it as well. I, on the other hand, have continued to dispense valuable and credible information while debunking unnecessary and even unsafe practices. I am proud of staying true to my philosophy and, in turn, staying true and ethical to those who seek my support.
Tell us about the journey to launching Lehigh Valley Yoga Tone!
After having my son at age 40, I knew my body (and mind) and lifestyle could not sustain a rigorous exercise regime—nor did I want to! So, in my basement with a mat and dumbbell, I started squeezing everything into the one hour we allot for ourselves as a new mom. Resistance training, core, stretch, cardio conditioning… I did this day in and day out. I was finally applying my former yoga certification and strength training into one concept that was reducing my inflammation, balancing my hormones, allowing for recovery and transforming my body without overtaxing it.
Explain the significance of combining yoga and resistance training.
The most effective and fastest way to build muscle is through resistance training and progressive overload, and the most effective way to connect the mind and body, increase tone, mobility and reduce inflammation is through yoga. The Yoga Tone™ concept is the perfect marriage. The combination of providing stretch and recovery between the valuable muscle-building movements allows the body to reduce inflammation and balance hormones, unlike the repetitive movements of other traditional exercise formats. The recovery between the intensity produces both fat-burning results, increased functional movement and a sustainable approach to exercising.
What do you hope all participants walk away with from a class?
A feeling of belonging, acceptance of wherever they are in their journey and confidence that they can succeed in achieving their personal wellness goals because of the atmosphere we create.
Describe your morning routine. Is there anything you simply can’t start your day without?
I cannot start my day without my treadmill! It’s more than a treadmill though. This is where I watch my videos on entrepreneurship, spirituality, personal growth and resources to aid in my personal and business growth. Getting my heart pumping while my mind is being engaged is what sets the precedent for my day before I engage with all my clients.
How about your nighttime routine?
I make sure to have some downtime with my young son first and foremost. Then a cup of hot herbal tea and something to read or listen to that will slow my mind before falling asleep.
What’s your favorite meal to make at home?
Tacos, because it is something my son will eat, too! And I can create a healthy version for myself but still enjoy a meal together.
What are your favorite eateries and restaurants to visit in the Lehigh Valley for a good meal? What do you order?
I love the atmosphere at Tapas in Bethlehem, a good steak from any steak house, and sushi from Komé!
Is there anywhere locally that you love to shop for grocery items?
I love Fresh Market at Promenade Saucon Valley. I like to get fresh fruit and veggies there because of the quality and they last longer, which is a bonus since I shop and prep once for the entire week.
What’s something that you love to indulge in?
I love to indulge in some solid downtime with my son. We live a very busy lifestyle, and as a single mother managing and growing businesses, I ensure when we have a free weekend, I turn down technology and indulge in our quality time.
How do you relieve stress?
Through prayer, exercise and reading. And a good massage!
What goals do you have for your personal wellness?
I am going to get in the best shape for my next “big” birthday in January. Going beyond the aesthetics though, I want to show other women that we can be energized, vibrant and physically fit without overthinking it and without the latest fads.
"Live up to your dreams, not down to your doubts. Do this by embracing faith over fear."
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to my cousin Faith. She was one of the most successful women I have ever known. But what was most inspiring about her successes was her ability and desire to maintain a humble, simple life. She was consistent in her humor, success, modesty and loyalty to her family. I reflect on her keen sense of wisdom and the solid advice she’d have in my times of stress and uncertainties along my career path. But because of her influence, I now say, “Why not me?”
Do you have a personal mantra that you’d like to share?
Live up to your dreams, not down to your doubts. Do this by embracing faith over fear.
angieswaynutrition.com | lehighvalleyyogatone.com
Published as “Living Well With” in the August 2024 edition of Lehigh Valley Style magazine.
