ABOUT ATLANTA PERSONAL TRAINER
LAQUISHA SMITH BBK CO-OWNER, CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER + FITNESS ENTREPRENEUR
Laquisha@BodyByKariim.com
LaQuisha is a certified fitness instructor with over 7 years of experience. Specializing in weight loss and muscle toning through circuit training and cardiovascular exercise, her goal is to show her clients – especially women – how to manage their health and encourage a positive self image. LaQuisha's training methods are also geared towards creating innovative fitness programs for clients to incorporate into their lifestyle to achieve happiness and overall well being. She's also a former athlete, and an avid Track & Field fan, loving the sport to the extent that her training expertise encompasses all areas and levels necessary for competition.
ONE ON ONE WITH QUISHA
If you weren't a trainer, what career would you choose?
Without a doubt, a Track & Field Coach would be at the top of my list; but, I'd also love to work with children to teach them the importance of diet and exercise at a young age so they can create healthy habits into adulthood and make it a part of their lifestyle.
What's your take on weight training?
I absolutely love weight training!!!! Most women avoid weights because they're afraid to "get bulky". The truth is, women do not have enough hormones to produce "bulky muscle mass" without certain extreme measures. Weight training builds lean muscle which helps to increase your metabolism. Muscle naturally burns more calories than fat, so the more muscle you have; the more calories you'll burn throughout the day. My female clients now understand this and know that weight training gives them firmer more defined bodies.
What's your #1 Fitness Secret?
FOOD & WATER! No matter how hard you work in the gym, you will never obtain longterm results without eating clean and drinking plenty of H20. I eat healthy 90% of the time and allow myself a cheat every once in a while.
How does it feel to be a role model for your clients, especially the women and why is that so important to you?
When a client says they can finally wear something they haven't worn in years or they've lost weight, it's the best feeling in the world and I love that in my career I can help others. I believe, wholeheartedly that fitness is a lifestyle and not just a trend because it keeps you energized and ready for any occasion – bikinis and little black dresses included! It also allows me a chance to get to know my clients better and fully understand how I can make the biggest impact on their life and help them set and reach new goals.
Do you have any vices?
Yes! I love a good cheesecake.
FAVORITE BODY PART: LEGS
