MICHAELA’S STORY

My name is Michaela. I’m a stay-at-home mom, so between looking after my daughter and working out, my schedule is pretty packed. Although they say you shouldn't reveal a lady's age, I’ll share that I’ve already celebrated my 31st birthday. I love traveling, exploring new places, and I’m a big fan of books—I’m always happy when I can find a little quiet time to read. I love nature, our dogs, and time spent with family and friends at our cottage is truly precious to me. And of course, my new passion is fitness, and I hope to keep pushing myself even further as time goes on...

I started exercising mainly to get back into some kind of shape after giving birth. I needed to shed the baby weight because I felt incredibly uncomfortable—like I was trapped in a hippo's skin—and I was suffering from severe back pain. I knew I had to do something about it. I started about 6 months after giving birth, in February 2019, and I haven’t stopped since. The pain is gone, and of course, so are the extra pounds. To be precise, I lost 17 kg in just six months. I have to admit, I’ve never felt better. I lost more than I ever expected, and most importantly, I don’t do it because I have to, but because I truly enjoy it.

In the beginning, I worked out 3 times a week, but for the last few months, I’ve been going 5–6 times a week, depending on my schedule. If I could, I’d go every single day, multiple times a day! :D But muscles need rest too, and I have a child who needs my attention.

As for the workouts, I’ve tried several, but I usually try to balance cardio and strength training within the same week. I regularly attend CORE (CXWORX), BARRE, BODYBALANCE, THE TRIP, GRIT, BODYPUMP, and BODYCOMBAT. However, BODYCOMBAT is the one that truly cast a spell on me. It’s my absolute favorite. It’s where I can completely switch off and release all the leftover energy from a long day with a toddler. I love it! The passion the instructors put into it motivates me even more to give it my all. The motto "To switch off, turn on!" (turn it up) definitely applies here.

And how did I find NEONKA? A friend of mine talked me into it, and I’m so grateful to her today! I had heard about NEONKA back when they started with JUMPING. I tried it once back then, but it didn't really click with me. I stuck to working out at home in front of the TV and hitting the gym occasionally. But it felt forced; I didn't really enjoy it. A few years later, on a beautiful winter day, my friend dragged me back to NEONKA, saying they offered more programs now. I had wanted to try a martial-arts-style workout for a long time, so we tried BODYCOMBAT. But you know how it is—the 1st session, you’re a newbie, you don't know the moves, it’s an unfamiliar place... we weren't exactly thrilled.

But we decided to give it one more shot. I still vividly remember my second BODYCOMBAT session where the instructor literally pushed me to my absolute limit. And that’s when it all started. Even though I used to dislike group classes, I adore them now. I love how everyone supports each other, nobody laughs at anyone, and the instructors create a fantastic atmosphere. They motivate, support, teach, and correct your technique when needed. It’s wonderful that we are all like one big fitness family. Plus, as a mom on maternity leave, it’s very affordable. I also appreciate the workshops where clients can learn proper exercise techniques. I’m so happy we have NEONKA right here in Košice!

I don't follow a strict diet, though there were days when I tried counting calories, but honestly, it didn't stick. I try to eat healthy; I’m not a fan of fried foods or processed meats. But of course, I treat myself—there's nothing wrong with having a burger or ice cream every now and then. I’ll just work it off anyway. Breakfast is essential for me. The day can’t start without it; you need to kickstart your metabolism. I can't imagine a morning without oatmeal, apples, and peanut butter. Once or twice a year, I also do a 28-day detox. If you stick with it until the end, your body feels incredible.

I recommend that people shouldn't be afraid to try something new and unknown. I'm proof of that. You won’t just get a "new" body, but also new friends, you’ll learn new things, and most importantly, once you find the program that’s made for you, you’ll look forward to working out every single day. Just like I do :)

Be grateful that you are healthy and able to do sports. Enjoy it, have fun. Many people don't have that privilege. Do it for the joy and, most importantly, for yourself.

Michaela made it, and so can you! All it takes is the first step—the DECISION. Because you have what it takes, and we will stand by you the whole time. Register HERE and start enjoying your results right now!

We look forward to seeing YOU! TEAM NEONKA