Local fitness gurus on their wellness routines

We asked four Newport Beach fitness pros about their healthy habits, from self-care tips to their favorite workout spots and everything in between. Get inspired from their wellness routines and lifestyles. We’re giving you an inside look into the everyday life of locals who put their health and well-being at the top of their to-do list.

Jo and Jacqs — “Fitfluencers” at Sweat + Tell

When best friends Jo and Jacqs first started their lifestyle account and blog Sweat + Tell, it was to share their fitness journey, post by motivational post. Now, they inspire a following of over 40,000, supplying them with healthy lifestyle tips and a litany of reasons to get up and go.

Jo:

My healthy lifestyle is inspired by wanting to live a long, prosperous and active life.

The first thing I do in the morning is grab a glass of water and drink it while I do my hair.

My go to healthy meal is a jumbo salad from the Whole Foods to-go bar.

My favorite place to work out in Newport Beach is anywhere outside! Although we love studios, I think running or biking on the boardwalk takes the cake.

When I’m on the go or traveling, I stay energized with lots of coffee. 

A wellness guru or fitness blogger I love is @J.Crvz. He’s been my favorite trainer to follow for as long as I can remember!

Every day I make sure that I’m doing something to get closer to my short and long-term goals.

The best self-care tip I can offer is that it looks different for everyone. Whether it’s a face mask or just watching your favorite show, find something that makes you feel personally fulfilled.

The places in Newport Beach where I go to treat myself are the spa, Mama D’s (pink sauce pasta) and Nordstrom.

Before I go to bed, I always make sure I prepare myself for the next day (pack my bags for the gym and work, lay out my outfit and write in my planner).

Jacqs:

My healthy lifestyle is inspired by my personal growth—how fitness has helped me grow as a person not only physically, but mentally.

First thing in the morning I splash my face with cold water, take an absurdly long chug of water from the faucet, and then make an almond milk latte.

My go-to healthy meal is salmon with asparagus and roasted potatoes. So simple and so delish!

My favorite place to work out in Newport Beach is outside!

When I’m on the go or traveling, I stay energized with coffee, breakfast and sheet masks.

A wellness guru or fitness blogger I love is Jeannette Ogden behind @shutthekaleup.

Every day I take time to think about all the things I am grateful for, usually before bed or during my morning coffee, or both!

The best self-care tip I can offer is make sure to get enough sleep!

The places in Newport Beach where I go to treat myself are anywhere in Lido Marina Village (for shopping or food) and SoulCycle.

Before I go to bed, I always make sure I pick out my outfit for the next day.

Paul Keating – Local surfer and surf instructor

Between riding the waves and teaching others how to balance atop a surfboard, Paul Keating spends much of his “office hours” keeping active outdoors. But even though being on the move comes with the territory, for Paul, surfing is not just a job—it’s a lifestyle. 

My healthy lifestyle is inspired by my twin sister (= goals).

The first thing I do in the morning, if the surf’s not firing, is sit in silence for a few minutes.

My favorite place to get a workout in Newport Beach is the ocean! And Ra Yoga! (Yogalates, yoga with weights, chill yoga or hot yoga. I love it).

When I’m on the go or traveling, I stay energized with coffee.

A wellness guru or athlete I love is (cliché) but Kelly Slater. It’s incredible to see what he’s doing at his age—and you should see what he eats!

Every day I move it, move it.

The best self-care tip I can offer is have fun doing something you’re good at and enjoy it every day.

The places in Newport Beach where I go to treat myself are Banzai Bowls and Seaside Donuts Bakery.

Before I go to bed, I always make sure I go over what I’m thankful for.

Nicole Kniss – Founder of Newport Peach

 As the founder of Newport Peach—an aerobics studio that combines pilates, ballet, cardio and step work—Nicole Kniss knows a thing or two about staying in shape. But more importantly, she’s all about fostering friendships and having fun while breaking a sweat.

My healthy lifestyle is inspired by the women in my community. I want to be a body-positive role model for the women around me and for us to lift each other up!

The first thing I do in the morning is drink coffee!

My go-to healthy place to eat is Cafe Gratitude on Taco Tuesday!

My favorite place to get a workout in Newport Beach is Newport Peach.

When I’m on the go or traveling, I stay energized with kombucha.

A wellness guru or athlete I love is Bizzie Gold, creator of Buti Yoga, and Phillip Weeden, creator of Xtreme Hip Hop with Phil.

Every day I move!

The best self-care tip I can offer is find movement that fuels your soul. Also, have an attitude of gratitude!

The places in Newport Beach where I go to treat myself are C’est Si Bon Bakery and Lululemon at Fashion Island.

Before I go to bed, I always make sure I drink water.

Written By: Mariam Makatsaria