Homewood Fit targets a formula for healthy living

The idea for Homewood Fit started with a friendship.

“[Allison Stephens and I] would sit at the pool and talk about ways for me to change my diet, and the concept came out of that,” co-owner Suzanne Jones said. “The idea is to show women that healthy living can be simple and easy, and it’s more fun when you do it with your friends. It’s a lifestyle, but it doesn’t have to be complicated.”

Jones and Stephens lead workouts at Homewood Park Monday through Friday at 5:45 a.m. Jones, a former real estate agent, handles the marketing and business side of things. She is also certified to lead group exercise training through AFAA. Stephens has a degree in nutrition and dietetics from Samford University and is a certified personal trainer through ACE.

Together, the two have created a program that is continuously growing. When the workout sessions began in February 2011, they had three women in attendance. As of Nov. 2012, their core group has grown to 27 women with a community focus that, while involving high intensity cross fit interval training, avoids feeling like a boot camp.

“We try to keep it varied so people stay interested.” Jones said. “We talk about eating real food as opposed to processed food. A lot of boot camps are revolving doors, and we have a huge core group that comes back each month.”

Another aspect of Homewood Fit is Fit Chef Mohana Shull, who moved to the U.S. from Chile when she married a few years ago. Shull prepares meals once a week for Homewood Fit women to pick up and take home to prepare.

“Cooking has always been a hobby for her, and she has a passion for food. In Chile, the culture revolves around food,” Jones said. “If you’re interested in getting the meals, you can contact Homewood Fit through Facebook.”

For women wanting to live a healthier lifestyle, Jones encourages them to get their friends involved.

“For me personally, it’s all about accountability,” Jones said. “I do not walk out my door and exercise unless I’m with a friend, and I think that is key for so many women especially those who have children.”

Stephens also encourages women not to get caught up in the details.

“Don’t get overwhelmed. Say ‘today I’m going to do something for 20 minutes even if it’s only going for a walk,’” Stephens said. “People feel like they have to go for an hour at a time or more and that’s just not how it is. Start small. And stay away from processed food.”