When it comes to choosing a personal trainer, is not something to take a one-size-fits-all type of approach on. While there’s an abundance of them to work with these days, choosing a trainer that has specialized knowledge on proper body function and develops personalized training programs is how you'll see the best results!
That's why we’re putting the spotlight on Arrabella Schippers who’s not only a certified personal trainer (CPT), but also a licensed massage therapist (LMT), specializing in medical manual therapy (MMT). Basically, this fit chick knows a thing or two on how to whip women in men into the best shape and how to correct muscle imbalance & injury.
Learn more as she responds to our rapid fire Q&A questions and shares one of her favorite workouts below!
When did your fitness journey start and what inspired you to do so?
I have been a personal training with the American Council on Exercise since 2005. I have always been active and started weight training when I was 14. I practiced martial arts and wanted to build more strength and muscle, so I got into lifting.
What inspired to become a personal trainer/coach and what is your area of expertise?
I have always taken a holistic approach to health and fitness. It is my passion to help people feel empowered about their health and wellness not matter where they are starting from.
I was working as a medical manual therapist at a physical therapy and sports injury clinic when I decided to get my CPT. While physical therapy was an important part of recovery, it was limited in that it only got clients through their injury but didn’t help them re-learn how to live an active lifestyle thereafter. As a CPT and MMT, I was able to work with them after they had finished PT and help get them back to regular activity and improve their level of fitness and sports performance.
I specialize in fitness as a lifestyle. I work with people looking to make lasting changes and focus on how health and fitness feels and looks likes as a unique expression of wellbeing. I never take a one-size-fits-all approach and work in progressive phases to get people feeling more knowledgeable on confident.
Have you had to overcome obstacles on your fitness journey? Please explain.
For myself personally, I have always made health and fitness a priority. This comes from my experience growing up with my mother suffering from a debilitating autoimmune condition called Lyme Disease. I watched her really struggle with chronic pain, terrible surgeries, and limited mobility. I learned never to take my health for granted and to treat my good health as a blessing. She is the reason I have made my life’s work to help people find a way to live better no matter what their situation or challenges may be.
What is your favorite training move and why?
I prefer balance. I try new activities often and make sure to include both cardio and strength in my routines.
Do you meal prep and if so, what are your go-to meals?
Meal prep has been a part of my regular routine for many years. For me, meal prep is about more than just eating healthy, it is about saving time and money, and reducing wasted food. My schedule is busy so taking a few hours to plan my meals for the week takes the guesswork out it and keeps me on track. I even meal prep for my boyfriend because I don’t like junk in the house and all the wasted containers from take out food bothers me.
What’s your go-to cheat meal?
I don’t really like to use the term “cheat meal” because I think it's fine to indulge occasionally. I also don’t like to eat things that don’t make me feel good, so I encourage clients to pay attention to how the food they eat makes them feel. There are so many missed conceptions about diet and nutrition out there that people pay more attention to eating trends then how they themselves feel. It is important to feel good about what you are doing and not like you are “cheating” so I keep that in perspective when making food choices
What gets you pumped to workout on the days you’re not feeling it?
Focusing on my goals and music is what gets me pumped. I also love they a good workout feels so just getting started is all it takes.
When you’re not training yourself or others, what’s your favorite way to relax?
I love baths! I also like to practice meditation and self-chakra balancing
What is your go-to for post workout recovery?
BCAA's and a good balanced meal
What’s your best fitness tip (training, nutrition, attitude, etc.)?
Don't rely on motivation, learn to cultivate discipline. Get organized and stick with a plan.
What advice would you give to a newbie in the gym?
Get a trainer. You will have a much better experience if you learn more about what works and what doesn't work for you based on your goals and needs.
This is currently my favorite glutes and ab routine (I know people love glutes and ab routines ;-)
Foam roll, then 10 minute warm-up on the bike
Sumo deadlift 5 sets/ 6-8 reps
super set:
Feet elevated hip thrusts 3 sets/ 10-12 reps
back hyper extensions 3 sets/ 20 reps
bench hip thrusts 5 sets/ 8-10 reps
super set:
Smith reverse lunge 3 sets/ 8 reps each leg
Sissy squat 3 sets/ 15 reps
super set
cable kickbacks 2 sets/ 10 reps
cable side kicks 2 sets/ 10 reps
super set
bench leg lifts 2 sets/ 20 reps
ball crunch 2 sets/ 20 reps
side bend heel touch 2 sets/ 20 reps
If you're interested in working with Arrabella, you can contact her directly at: arrabella@ARVAmethod.com or visit her website: http://www.arvamethod.com/