For Jason and Nicole, fitness is more than just a personal journey—it’s a shared commitment. When the InstaPhysique Midtown studio opened near Jason’s workplace, they decided to jump in together, combining their individual fitness goals with the accountability of working out as a team. What started as a way to add variety and structure to their workouts has evolved into a powerful way to stay connected, support each other, and tackle challenges together. In this Q&A, Jason and Nicole share how InstaPhysique has not only strengthened their bodies but also deepened their relationship.
You both started InstaPhysique together! What was your ‘why’ for starting at InstaPhysique together, and how has that reason evolved as you’ve progressed on your fitness journey?
Jason: The why for starting really came about because the Midtown studio was being built across the street from where I work. I asked my wife to look into it to see if this would be a fit for me. Historically, anytime I’ve gone into a gym I never knew what to do. Think of it this way, any new job you take on, you need to go through training to learn how to do that job. Gyms are just the opposite, you sign up for a membership and they say “good luck, have fun!” Once my wife researched it, we decided to both jump in. What made us really interested in InstaPhysique was the classes were led by trained professionals with a different workout every class. You don’t get bored of doing the same old thing.
Nicole: The “why” for me in joining is two-fold. First, I’ve been looking to add in more strength training as I hit my mid 40s and moving away from the high-impact, high intensity workouts I’ve done in the past. This is that perfect fit. Why we joined together is to have that accountability partner and commitment to continuing the workout. The more we do it together, the more committed we are to continuing this fitness journey. And misery loves company!
What surprising strengths have you each discovered about yourselves since joining InstaPhysique?
Jason: On the opposite end I was surprised of how sore my legs are after class considering I stand at work 8 hours a day for the last 22 years. I didn’t realize that standing muscles and Split Squat muscles were so different.
Nicole: Let’s just say the most humbling moment was the day after my first class and I was walking around like a baby giraffe. But each class after that I could feel myself getting stronger. The moves, the tweaks, the correct posture are all things I see strengthening within myself. Shout out to Coach Liz who gave me feedback one day that resonated. She saw how easily I adjusted my body based on just listening to her feedback, versus her coming over and making those adjustments for me. I’ll take that as a super strength.
What has it been like working out together, and how has it strengthened both your fitness and your relationship?
Jason/Nicole: It really goes back to the accountability aspect of doing it together. It is a lot easier to slack off or miss classes when you do it on your own. As you get older and are with someone longer its can be easy to grow apart. You must work hard at a long relationship and figure out new things to have in common. We work out together 1 day a week and separate 1 day a week. Its fun to compare class stories on the day we workout separately when we do our nightly dog walk.
How do you find ways to prioritize fitness amidst your busy schedules?
Jason: I have split days off, which lets me spread my two weekly classes across my days off. The Midtown location is conveniently located between our son’s school and our house, so after dropping him off, I can fit in a class before heading back home. Plus, with the wide range of class times available, I have plenty of options to choose from if I can’t attend my usual class.
Nicole: Definitely splitting between evenings and weekends to balance work, family, and our teenager’s sports schedule. Evenings are better or me after work and then we do one weekend day together.
Favorite mega move and why:
Jason: Sexy Back, I really like it when we incorporate upper body into the routine.
Nicole: Love the bounce! I’m hoping I can get more of that into my routine. I do prefer anything where we are pushing out (i.e leg press, donkey press) are my favorite! But don’t tell anyone.
