Stepping away the stress
Home base: Marietta, GA
Family life: Married to Mark, Mom to Parker and Vienne.
Work life: Director of Content Development, Cindy Miller Communications
Age: 43
As mother and businesswoman, Kimberly Petty lives an active lifestyle. Whether she’s running her kids to practices or checking emails on the office treadmill, Kimberly knows that staying active is a priority for her mental health.
“I just feel better when I’m active,” says Kimberly. “When I’m working out I sleep better, and I feel better overall.”
What’s your favorite fitness memory?
“While being active was a priority in my younger years, in college I struggled. I noticed a decline in my anxiety and mental health. I was having a hard time sleeping and managing stress, so I headed back to the gym. When I went back to the gym, I couldn’t make it through a HIIT class. Now I see the change in my strength and cardio. I’m happy that I can go out and run for three or four miles when I feel like it.”
How do you describe yourself as an active person?
“I exercise for me. My mental health is so important, especially as a mom of two. It helps me sleep better and just improves my general mental health. From dancing and playing tennis as a kid, to HIIT workouts and my favorite kickboxing class at the gym, being active has always been a priority in my life.”
What’s your favorite way to get your steps in?
“My favorite way to get my steps in to take advantage of my kids’ practices and rehearsals. The 30 minutes my daughter has her piano lesson is the perfect time to get in a quick walk. I like to take my dog with me to my son’s soccer practice and get in a longer walk.”
Top 3 ideas to get your steps in:
- Schedule your gym time at the beginning of the week.
- Use the time when your kids are at practice to take a walk .
- Incorporate activity as a family so it’s exercise, but it’s also fun!
QUICK TAKES
Favorite running shoe: Brooks
Favorite workout partner: My dog
Favorite running song: Pod Save America, Recode Decode or WTF
