Ramona Leap on Winter Workouts and Community Wellness at One Spark Fitness

The winter months often challenge fitness enthusiasts to maintain their routines, but Ramona “Ra” Leap, co-owner of One Spark Fitness in Phoenixville, believes that consistency is essential for success. In a recent interview, Leap shared insights on how she navigates her personal fitness journey while fostering a supportive community at her studio.

Leap and her sister, Jolie Martinez, co-founded One Spark Fitness to create an environment that encourages physical activity and well-being. When asked about changing workout routines with the seasons, Leap emphasized that she does not modify her exercise regimen. “Consistency is key to success,” she stated. She noted that while her outdoor activities may increase in warmer months through gardening and spending time with her grandchildren, her gym workouts remain unchanged.

During winter, Leap has observed that members are particularly drawn to high-energy classes, with Zumba and weight-lifting sessions seeing the most participation. “Women want to have fun, but they also want to be strong,” she explained, pointing out the importance of resistance training, especially for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. According to Leap, these classes offer numerous benefits including hormone balance and improved sleep.

Yet, Leap acknowledges that winter can bring challenges. “Members find it harder to be consistent during these dark, cold months,” she reflected. As instructors, Leap and her team work hard to create an engaging atmosphere. “No one wants to exercise with a flat, low-energy, boring instructor,” she added, emphasizing the importance of keeping classes lively and enjoyable.

The community aspect of One Spark Fitness is another cornerstone of Leap’s philosophy. She expressed pride in the strong connections formed among members, which often extend beyond the gym. “Many of our members develop friendships that lead to accountability,” she noted. This support system is particularly vital during winter when feelings of isolation and weight gain can occur.

Conversations within the studio often reflect broader societal issues. Leap mentioned discussions about the current unrest, alongside the changes in body composition that accompany aging. Members share experiences related to weight gain and other menopausal symptoms, creating an open dialogue about personal health journeys.

Weight loss medications have also emerged as a topic of interest among gym-goers. Leap reported that some members have begun using these drugs, and the response within the community has been largely supportive. “Discussions have been open and positive,” she said, highlighting the importance of fostering a non-judgmental environment.

On a personal note, Leap has been navigating her own menopausal journey for over six years. She shared that significant changes in her body prompted her to reevaluate her diet, leading her to increase her protein intake while reducing carbohydrates. “I’ve increased my lean protein intake to around 100-115 grams per day to build and maintain muscle,” she explained.

As winter cravings can shift towards comfort foods, Leap admitted that her biggest challenge remains sugar intake. “I have to admit that I am a bit of a sugar addict,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to managing cravings through a balanced approach.

To motivate others during the colder months, Leap offered practical fitness tips. She encourages finding a workout partner for accountability and suggests preparing workout gear in advance. “Always have an extra set of workout wear and sneakers in the car, ready to go,” she advised.

As the winter progresses, Leap remains committed to inspiring her community at One Spark Fitness. With a focus on consistent workouts and a supportive environment, she aims to empower individuals to prioritize their health and well-being, regardless of the season.