Tuesday, February 09, 2010

Still undecided for 9:30 am class BUT YES to 7:30 pm WED

Please check back early am for decision on 9:30 am class! Thanks:)

:: FOR WED Feb 10::: Check back in for weather updates ::

The weather is bad and the snow is supposed to keep coming, and blow and drift, so I am giving a heads up that there might not be 9:30 am class Wednesday Feb 10...Keep checking in and I will have details posted by 9 pm tonight. 
Become a fan on my facebook page as well to get all updates click here www.facebook.com/thetraceygardnermethod

:: TESTIMONIALS Read THE BUZZ::

Any day that I am able to go to Tracey’s class is a favorite day for me. Honestly, if I could go to every class she offered, I would. Her class is more than a work out- it is so fun and addictive- my “happy place”!!!! What could be better than getting an awesome workout, fabulous toning, burning tons of calories, and sweating like crazy- all with no shoes on? On my way home from her class, I am already planning the next time I can go. The music is great, the heat is great, and Tracey’s instruction, encouragement, and motivation could not be better. I love when she gives advancements so I have something to strive for. I’m really working for arms like hers- I will do as many hollow & hovers and dive thrus as it takes!!!!!

Cheryl Wright

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Love it love it love it! I can't even describe how great I've felt after class the past two times. You are such an amazing instructor, and i like your yoga method as well as your teaching method, like always saying AWESOME GUYS, AWESOME (i've been to workout classes before where the instructor is constantly yelling like a drill sargeant, and for me that is not effective, i appreciate your encouraging words!). I love the heat, the sweat, the friendliness of everyone in the class, the time goes by so fast!, the music, how close it is to my house, seeing how strong you and some of the other girls are, and that i now have an escape for stress! I am coming to Saturday's class and bringing a friend as well, she is really excited to try it!

Angie Reich

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I also wanted to thank and commend you on such a great method. I am a 31 year old mom of 4 great kids. My husband and I own and operate a hair salon in Powell, which is also where we live. I have become guilty of letting myself come last and lost all confidence in my ability to change my body. I have never been able to find a program or gym that kept my attention. With my husband's encouragement I have attended two of your classes (the last two Sunday's) and find myself checking your blog daily and counting the days toward next class. I just wanted to introduce myself since I will be a regular at upcoming classes, I am completely addicted:)

Sara Farell

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I was definitely one of those people who thought yoga was just a lot of breathing and stretching, but after a nagging knee injury forced me to cut back on running I began to look for something else to help me stay in shape. A friend asked me if I wanted to go with her to one of Tracey’s classes and even though I was skeptical I thought “why not?” I could not believe how tough it was! I left the class drenched in sweat and totally hooked. Over the last 11 months I have seen such a difference in my body, my stomach is flatter, my arms are more toned, and my balance and flexibility have really improved. The best part and what I have a hard time putting into words is the sense of accomplishment I feel after every class. I am so proud of myself when I am able to hold a pose I wasn’t able to just the week before. I like the fact that each class is a little different but always challenging and the music is awesome! Tracey gives different options with each move so you can really tailor the class to your abilities. Tracey is so encouraging and positive; she really made me feel comfortable even though I was totally new to her class. It’s obvious she loves what she does and I really cannot thank her enough for what her classes have done for me.

Heather Zwierlein

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I must say that Tracey and her yoga class have changed my life! Having two babies(2 years and 7 months) makes working out a tough task to fit into an already busy schedule. Working out five days a week simply isn't an option. I take Tracey's class twice a week and am getting results I never achieved in a gym where I used to spend almost 2 hours 5 days a week. After 2 months in Tracey's class I shed all of my pregnancy weight plus some, trimmed inches off my entire body, and sculpted my arms, legs and stomach area. The change isn't only on the outside. I have so much more energy from day to day and feel renewed from the inside out! I look forward to each and every class. Not once have I thought, "I don't want to go".....it's just the opposite....I can't wait to go! Tracey does an amazing job leading the class! She thoroughly explains all the poses for beginners and takes the time to help you reach more advanced options once you are ready. There's always a new challenge for your body since you can advance your poses no matter how long you've been taking her class. Her motto is to always listen to your body! I'm hooked for life to Tracey's method of yoga and I can't thank her enough for following her passion and making such an amazing class available to us all!

Michelle Giganti

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Tracey Gardner Method is unlike any exercise I have ever done. In a matter of weeks my body has been transformed like never before. I'm stronger and leaner than I've ever been. I no longer need to work out with weights since the class focuses on strength,core and endurance building. As a runner I have found that my runs are easier and faster and therefore more enjoyable. In a word this class is "Phenomenal."

Kris Cale

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Almost two yearsago I was diagnosed as having an underactive thyroid. I had gone to the doctor several times because I was steadily gaining weight despite eating a low calorie diet and running 3-5 miles a day, 5 days a week. I was frustrated to say the very least. Since then I have tried several different ways to lose weight including going to a personal trainer and although I grew stronger, I still could not lose weight no matter what I did. I started talking to some people at work and they suggested that I try power yoga and I was given Tracey’s name. I decided to try a class and I was instantly hooked! Not only do I rely on this class to help me de-stress and stay healthy but it’s the first time I have felt and seen weight loss results in years! I have cut about 15 lbs since I started in September of 2009 and that is with going an average of twice a week. This class has truly been like a miracle in my life and I cannot say enough good things about Tracey and the format in which she instructs. Go to this class if you need to find a new way to relax, build strength or to lose weight. Tracey will never make you chant and she will never single you out in front of the class, unless it’s to give you a compliment. Plus I share her taste in music and she has only helped me add to my collection. How can you say no to that?

Lauren Martin

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Tracey Gardner Method is the absolute best workout experience! Before I tried one of Tracey's classes, I remember being really nervous...I was fairly new to working out in general and had heard that her yoga was not the typical "relaxation" type yoga, but a really hardcore strength workout. I also heard that she heats the room to a high level and I was nervous that I might pass out! Well, now I am 100% addicted to the Tracey Gardner Method (I go on Wednesday nights and call it my "mid-week treat."); the things I was nervous about are the things I love most about this class!

Here are my top reasons why:

10 - Wednesday nights are the best! The main lights are off and strings of white lights are on. I love Tracy's music playlists...anything from Coldplay to Dave Matthews Band to Madonna! Although I love the music, it's mellow so it helps me to think more about the yoga movements.

9 - Class is always packed; which I love because everyone is doing their own thing and going along at their own pace. You can follow along with Tracey, modify, and take breaks when you need to.

8 - Every class is different! Just when you think you know what to expect, Tracy changes it up and adds a new challenges.

7 - Tracey's method will work you to the core, but when you leave class, you will feel so relaxed and cleansed. I've always slept well, but on Wednesday nights after her class, I have the best sleep of my life!

6 - The heat helps you sweat like crazy and helps to really work each and every muscle! The breathing methods used in Tracey's class are phenomenal. Think about it, how often do we truly think about our breathing? With each breath, your stamina builds!

5 - With each class your endurance and strength will build. Tracey's core movements not only build muscle, they build your confidence as you get stronger and stronger! It is amazing how you are just using your body to build all of this strength and lean muscle! 4 - You will be sore, for a few days, in a good way! A friend once told me that "if you aren't sore, you aren't working hard enough."

3 - Tracey Gardner Method isn't like any other workout, so you can never get bored! I've heard from other participants who go to Tracy's classes a few times a week and they've been doing that for over a year...they've shared that they never get bored! And you should see how toned they are! You'll shed weight, lose inches, and most importantly, build strength in body and mind!

2 - Tracey encourages participants to "modify" or she gives those ready an "extra" challenge. Although I am still doing many things the modified way, it is so rewarding to build on that strength every single week you can improve and it is such a celebration! Tracey is quick to give you an "awesome job" compliment to keep you motivated!

1 - Inspiration! Tracey is a true inspiration! She makes every participant, no matter what their ability is, feel good about attending her class and always takes time to show you how to do something. Her passion, strength, body, and attitude make you want to attend class again and again. You will be inspired, strong, lean, and confident.

Erin Sloan


::: TURN UP THE VOLUME TODAY FEB 9 :::


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:: FAQs ::

::What if I haven't done yoga in awhile or in the past?::
No worries, my method is different, you will have to retrain yourself so come in with an opened mind and be ready to sweat.

:: I'm nervous everyone will watch me?::
That's the cool thing, no one is focussed on anything but themselves, we just breathe, do what we can and take a break whenever we need one.

::What do I need to bring to class?::
A mat, towel and water...if it is your first time I have a couple loaner mats because I recommend Manduka Black Mats. I sell them and I am a national ambassador for Manduka and I stand by their mats and towels and everything else 110%

:: What do I wear to class?::
I suggest layering up in the morning and peeling off since it is getting cold out and you will sweat a lot...my favorite clothes which will not move from your body are lululemon they are so worth every penny and there is a showroom in Columbus, 841 North High St. and I am now an official ambassador for the m as well!

:: How long is my 10 class pack good for?::
Packages expire within 90 days from purchase.

:: Are the lights on at night?
Nope, all dark with string lights around room, I don't like working out with bright lights.

:: How do I sign up?::
Only through me you can send me an email at tgardneryoga@gmail.com if it is your first class. Cash or check only unless you purchase a package via Paypal through my blog.


::Seriously New Albany, so far?::
My client base is 50% New Albany and now 50% from all over Columbus from Pickerington, Dublin, Hilliard, German Village, Upper Arlington, Powell, Short North, EVERYWHERE. It's all highway.
DIRECTIONS to the studio
If you take 270 then jump onto 161 New Albany (East) take it until you see Johnstown Rd. Exit Johnstown, hang left and go to second light then make a right on Smiths Mill Rd, hang first right on Forest Dr. 5051 Forest Dr. (New Albany Ballet Company)

:: Why are classes so packed?::
Well I am very humbled by all of the love and support and for me it is so much more than just a class. I have pretty much been through everything (depression, starving myself), tried everything (partied crazy, smoked 2 packs of cigs a day), loathed the gym (scared of bulking up and many injuries), never saw results and get bored quick...I love connecting with each and everyone of my clients and truly guarantee my method helps emotionally and physically, every fitness level, male and female. It's not a job to me. It is my passion and I wish had more one one on time with everyone.

::Why does it take 5 classes to get the flow?::
It is a mind and body challenge and the technique of method gets sacrificed a little in the beginning but that is ok, if you are patient and give it a few classes I guarantee you it will become an addiction. There is a difference between hover and hollow™ and dive throughs™ that were specifically created by me to start your endurance building. My method specifically starts at the same point for every single person who walks through the door. It is up to you and your modifications to take you to the next level.

This is updated frequently so check back in:)

"Quench the unconventional?" I did...Why I created Tracey Gardner Method™

:: Tracey Gardner Method™ also known as Tracey Gardner Yoga :: My creation of HOT, CORE, ENDURANCE, STRENGTH AND BODY RESISTANCE TRAINING based from power y0ga....I stepped away from "yoga" because when I was saying I taught yoga, people would say "i love to stretch" "I need to relax" and if you came to my class we don't relax at all!
Not many of you know but I have been through it all or done it all...I was a 2 pack a day smoker, huge partier, and loved pain pills...I know it's hard to believe and that is why it is so important for me to share my story with you. I NEVER WORKED OUT until my husband, then boyfriend at 20 years old (I am now 36 going on 37) made me run 1/4 mile...It was painful and I couldn't breathe...I gradually started walking, then running, and going to the gym...I finally quit smoking 4 years later (which was the hardest thing I ever did) because of a bad bout of bronchitis...I was so sick of spending hours at the gym, never liking it, never getting the results I wanted or ended bulking up which is the least thing I wanted was to "bulk up"...I wasn't after the "body builder body" I wanted to get lean and long and defined...so I spent years learning, creating and realizing that weights weren't for me...I got bored with machines and was injured a lot from running (I had week ankles) I suffered 4 broken ankles including one with my first pregnancy...I "tried" to train for 4 marathons and every time I would get half way there, I was getting an MRI or a CT Scan because of a break, tendonitis, you name it, I had it....I wanted a strong core and I wanted most importantly to enjoy my workout not dread it...so my goal was to get results, challenge myself, build endurance and strength, look forward to it, get the endorphin rush from running since I wasn't able to run and SWEAT like crazy...I got into yoga about 10 plus years ago and have practiced every kind out there, and there are lots...I have built my specific method/technique upon power vinyasa (breath and movement) yoga...I want to stress...this is not like any other yoga class and that is why it is the official Tracey Gardner Method™ I change poses up from down dog to plank where you are using your core (hollowing)...my method stems from the core and most importantly endurance building...it is about building gradually because you will get so much more out of my classes if you drop your knees and try to build slowly...it will not happen overnight but if you consistently do my class 2 to 3 times a week, gradually build your strength and endurance you will shed inches and get results physically and mentally. I don't believe in the scale because you will gain lean muscle but lose inches... I love music so you will hear lots and loud...
we don't chant, relax, speak in sanskrit, or "OM"...it is about you and you craving to sweat and workout...you will sweat and burn hundreds and hundreds of calories in just one hour. There is no pressure and if you haven't done a yoga class PERFECT...you will not have to retrain yourself since my method is different...My classes are for all levels and I give advancements and modifications...I stress, it is nowhere near relaxing and it is very unconventional, so be prepared to work (at your own pace) Please bring a mat a large and small towel and water. I do sell Manduka Black Pro Mats which are the best mats out there and will help your practice, and I sell the Manduka large and small towels as well. I get a lot of questions on my arms and they are results from my method only, no weights or machines. I used to practice 14 times a week before I cranked the heat but I only do 7 because the heat cleanses and detoxifies you inside and out. The results are insane and so many of my clients inspire me and keep my passion alive.

Thanks Columbus Alive for making me "Alive and Unedited" this week

Alive & Unedited: Tracey Gardner
Thursday, January 14, 2010 6:00 AM
Tracey Gardner
JODI MILLER PHOTO
Tracey Gardner

Age: 36

Day job: Yoga instructor

Neighborhood: New Albany

Hometown: Youngstown

Years in Columbus: 19

Alma mater: Ohio State

Web: traceygardnermethod.com

Playing favorites

Favorite movie: Into the Wild

Favorite TV show: Saturday Night Live

Favorite band: Radiohead

Favorite song: "Showbiz" by Muse

Favorite author: The Us Weekly staff

Favorite place to travel: Mexico

Favorite food: Buttercream frosting from Cheryl's & Co.

Favorite drink: Stella Artois

You won't hear Sanskrit in one of Tracey Gardner's yoga classes. Really, you won't find anything traditional about her eponymous method, which combines strength training, breathing exercises and rock music. In addition to a rented studio in New Albany, the high-energy instructor will open a second location in March at Short North Fitness in the Jackson on High.

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In high school, I didn't really have the best grades. I got into Ohio State. It was a good thing. My mom wanted me to experience being out of Youngstown. That was a good push.

At Ohio State, I went crazy. I partied, drank, did everything. I was on probation my first quarter. I started smoking when I was 19 - two packs a day, eight cigarettes with my coffee in the morning. I never in a thousand years thought I would be doing this.

My boyfriend got me started working out. He gave me my first run, which I couldn't even survive. Over the years, I got into lifting weights. I got a personal trainer. I trained for marathons. I was injured a lot, which was really frustrating. I kept getting tendonitis. I broke my ankle, broke my foot.

I tried yoga everywhere, but it was kind of boring to me. It didn't click at all. I literally had a severe panic attack in one class, because there was no music and they were talking in Sanskrit. I called my husband. I couldn't breathe.

I started experimenting. I did yoga workshops. I started instructing a little here and there. When I was at Lifetime Fitness and had a class of 65, it all clicked. I've been on my own for a year now.

With the Tracey Gardner Method, I wanted to make everything different. I've taken everything from strength training to endurance running. I kind of put it all into this. I've helped strengthen my feet, for instance, by building poses around these issues I've had.

I believe that every crisis in my life has presented a unique opportunity. Every setback I've had, I've learned so much from it. At the time it sucks, but it's made me so much stronger.

Three things I can't live without are my iPod, my BlackBerry and Smashbox under-eye concealer. I didn't wear it one day, and I looked like I was dead.

In my spare time, I like to write and do social media. I have two kids, ages seven and 10. I love fashion. I'm a big music fan.

Every single class is created around music. I never go into class knowing what I'm going to do. I wing it from pose to pose or every flow because it goes by the reaction of my body. My favorites are Radiohead and Nine Inch Nails. I love Madonna. I'm really into these new indie bands, too.

My ultimate goal is to have Tracey Gardner Method studios around the country. And to be on the Ellen show.

One thing in my life I regret not doing is traveling more.

Know someone doing cool things around Columbus? E-mail John Ross at jross@columbusalive.com.


:: Video | CMH Magazine (thx Vital Film Works!) ::

Class at lululemon showroom in August

Class at lululemon showroom in August

Capital Style Magazine Interview | July 7, 2009

10 QUESTIONS and ANSWERS
(Photos by Jared Williamson | Lotz Studios)

When she decided that regular workouts were not working for her, Tracey Gardner of New Albany created her own exercise method. Inspired by her students, Gardner teaches her form of power yoga at the New Albany Ballet Company and corporately at Abercrombie (for the company's employees). We recently talked with the 36-year-old mother of two about her yoga style - and what she says it can do for Central Ohioans.

Working out wasn't your favorite thing when you were younger. What made you decide to get in shape?
I wanted to quit smoking. I was a partier, and I wanted a healthier lifestyle.

You made a big lifestyle change. How did that affect you?
I started getting endorphins from working out, and I started seeing my body change a little bit. I am a competitive person, and it was fun to see what I could do next.

What got you interested in yoga?
I took one class in 1997, and I liked it. It was slower, and I liked the teaching method. This was my first group exercise class that clicked with me. I started exploring different options.

For those who do not know what it is, how would you describe the yoga you teach?
Over the last 10 years, I have done every type of yoga you could think of. I have been studying and researching what the different muscles do. I have put all of this together and compiled everything to create Tracey Gardner Yoga, which is very core involved. My classes are not stretching; they are based on strength, endurance and stamina.

What makes it different than other workout methods?
It is all about the music. I play everything from Nine Inch Nails to Radiohead. I want music to pump you up and keep you going. Also, the heat is really important. People hate it at first.We turn the heat on to about 90 degrees. It allows you to deepen and lengthen the muscles. The heat lets you go into places in your body that are normally tight.

What is a typical class like?
We warm up every single muscle. I gradually build and do a lot of holding. I focus on balance, strength. The endurance building is one of the most important things. I do not have relaxation-that sets me apart.

Who is the best candidate for one of your classes?
Everybody. I could have a few-hundred-pound-woman and an Iron Man athlete in the same exact class. Everything is done at your own pace. The client base is insane. It becomes addicting for them.

What kind of results do people see after taking classes with you?
I always tell people never to weigh themselves. But people have lost five waist sizes, and are shrinking inch-wise drastically.

Your studio space is in New Albany. How far do people travel to take your classes?
From Dublin, Powell, Pickerington, Upper Arlington, Downtown Columbus and more. I have people coming from everywhere!

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