From delivering babies to designing and teaching group fitness classes, Dr. Jackie Mills has truly done it all. In May, Mills shared her top tips for creating a community you love. 24Life asked Mills to share some advice based on her experience leading and creating group fitness classes, plus her own go-to workouts and how she takes care of herself while leading a global brand.
24Life: When did you realize the incredible power of social and behavioral influence that group fitness instructors could have over the participants in their class?
JM: From the first time I taught a class way back in 1980.
24Life: How did you take care of yourself while teaching so many fitness workouts?
JM: I have always been a superfood eater. I was trained by my dad to eat this way. Incredible food is the key to energy for me.
24Life: Women—especially mothers—have always been in this cycle of superhuman productivity. How can we have a life and prevent burnout yet be passionately empowered and proactive to make a positive impact in our world?
JM: Mindfulness! Taking care of ourselves alongside caring for others.
24Life: How has your personal approach to fitness and workouts evolved over your lifetime?
JM: High-impact and now moderate- to low-impact and not so many hours a week.
24Life: What is your go-to workout?
JM: BODYPUMP, GRIT Strength and yoga.
24Life: What are you currently reading?
JM: “Drawdown” by Paul Hawken and “A Year of Marvellous Ways” by Sarah Winman.
24Life: Do you have any podcasts or audio experiences that you love?
JM: Tara Brach.
24Life: What mantra or message would you share with the world?
JM: Pause and be as loving, kind and brave as you can be in each moment—especially to yourself.
24Life: What is your next vacation?
JM: Hawaii yoga camp. Yahooooo!
Photo credit: Courtesy of Les Mills