Category: Blog

  • What to Look for in a Personal Trainer (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)

    Choosing a personal trainer is a big decision. You’re trusting someone with your time, your health, your goals, and often your confidence. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to break through a plateau, finding the right fit can make all the difference.

    At Union Studio, we believe personal training should actually be personal. Here’s what you should look for when hiring a trainer — and why it matters.


    1. Experience That Goes Beyond a Certification

    Yes, certifications are important. But experience? That’s where real transformation happens.

    A trainer with years of hands-on experience has worked with:

    • Injuries
    • Plateaus
    • Hormonal changes
    • Weight loss struggles
    • Strength building
    • Endurance training
    • Clients of all ages and fitness levels

    With 21 years of experience, I’ve seen it all — and more importantly, I’ve helped clients through it all. Experience allows a trainer to adjust in real-time, modify movements safely, and build long-term strategies instead of quick fixes.


    2. Individualized Programming (Not Cookie-Cutter Workouts)

    One of the biggest red flags? Trainers who give everyone the same workout.

    Your body, goals, lifestyle, and injury history are unique. Your training plan should be too.

    At Union Studio, every workout is individually tailored to each client’s needs. Whether your goal is:

    • Fat loss
    • Strength training
    • Improving endurance
    • Building muscle
    • Injury prevention
    • Improving mobility

    Your plan is built specifically for YOU.

    No templates. No generic circuits. No random exercises pulled from social media.


    3. A Private, Focused Training Environment

    Big-box gyms can be overwhelming:

    • Crowded floors
    • Distracting environments
    • Waiting for equipment
    • Feeling self-conscious

    A private personal training studio creates a completely different experience.

    At Union Studio, you train in a focused, supportive, distraction-free space designed specifically for results. There’s no competition for equipment, no intimidation factor — just intentional coaching and accountability.

    Private training allows for:

    • Better form correction
    • More focused attention
    • Faster progress
    • Greater comfort and confidence


    4. Accountability and Relationship

    The best trainers don’t just count reps. They build relationships.

    You want a trainer who:

    • Listens to your concerns
    • Adjusts when life gets busy
    • Helps you push when you need it
    • Pulls back when your body needs recovery
    • Celebrates your wins

    After 21 years in this industry, I know that sustainable results come from trust, consistency, and communication.

    Fitness is not a 30-day challenge. It’s a lifelong investment in your health.


    5. Long-Term Results Over Quick Fixes

    If a trainer promises:

    • Rapid extreme weight loss
    • “No effort” transformations
    • One-size-fits-all programs

    Be cautious.

    Real fitness is built on:

    • Strength
    • Consistency
    • Smart progression
    • Recovery
    • Lifestyle habits

    At Union Studio, we focus on sustainable strength, improved mobility, and lasting confidence — not crash diets or burnout programs.


    What Makes Union Studio Different?

    21 years of hands-on experience
    Private personal training studio environment
    Individually crafted workout programs
    One-on-one coaching
    Long-term results focus

    This isn’t just a workout. It’s a partnership.


    Ready to Work With a Trainer Who Truly Personalizes Your Fitness?

    If you’re looking for a personal trainer who listens, programs intelligently, and trains with purpose, Union Studio is here for you.

    Stop guessing in the gym.
    Stop following random online workouts.
    Start training with intention.

    Union Studio
    360 Kirman Ave
    Reno, NV 89502
    (775) 378-5551

    Let’s build a plan designed specifically for you

  • Why Music Is the Secret Weapon in Your Workout (And Why Your Trainer Should Know It)

    There’s nothing quite like the rush you feel when your favorite song hits right as you start your warm-up. Suddenly you’re more energized, more focused, and ready to crush your session. That’s not coincidence — it’s science.

    The Science Behind Music and Movement

    Music isn’t just background noise — it actively changes how your brain and body work during exercise:

    • Rhythm boosts performance: A strong beat helps you synchronize movement, improving coordination and endurance. Studies show people naturally match movement to the tempo of music, helping them sustain activity longer.
    • Distraction from fatigue: A great track can divert your attention from discomfort and fatigue, making high-intensity work feel more manageable.
    • Mood and motivation: Your brain releases dopamine — the “feel good” chemical — when you listen to music you love. That can translate into more effort, more reps, and a better overall session.

    Whether you’re lifting heavy, sprinting intervals, or flowing through mobility work, music makes a measurable difference.

    So Why Do Influencers Get It Wrong?

    Scroll through social media for more than a few minutes and you’ll see fitness “experts” pitching trends that prioritize aesthetics over real performance and well-being. They’ll sell you quick fixes, magic supplements, fad workouts, and workout hacks that look cool on camera but don’t work in real life.

    Too often, these influencers forget something crucial: fitness is personal. And music — a deeply personal motivator — deserves as much thoughtful planning as your training program.

    They’ll tell you to “just hustle harder.” We’ll tell you to train smarter, use tools (like music) that enhance performance, and build habits that last.

    How Union Studio Uses Music to Amplify Results

    At Union Studio, we know how important music is to get your groove on and play the right kind of music to enhance your work-out.

    Fitness isn’t about imitating trends or chasing likes. It’s about results that feel as good as they look — physically and mentally.

    So here’s our challenge to you:

    Pay attention to your playlist next time you train. Notice how your pace, mood, and effort change.
    Curate your music intentionally. Match tempo with goal. Use music as a tool.
    Tune out the influencers who promote one-size-fits-all fitness. Your journey should be guided by evidence, personal experience, and professional coaching — not viral trends.
    Train with us at Union Studio and let our team help you unlock your best performance yet — and yes, with the right soundtrack.

    Together, we’ll build strength, resilience, and workouts that feel as good as they look.

    Turn up the music — and your results.

  • Want to improve memory and brain function through working out?

    At Union Studio, we don’t just train bodies—we train minds too. One of the most powerful and often overlooked benefits of regular exercise is its ability to improve memory, focus, and overall brain health. If you want sharper thinking, better recall, and improved mental clarity, your workout routine might be the missing piece.

    Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, supports the growth of new brain cells, and boosts chemicals that help with learning and memory. In short: movement makes you smarter.


    Why Exercise Improves Memory

    When you work out, your brain releases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), often called “fertilizer for the brain.” BDNF helps create new neurons and strengthens the connections between them, which directly supports:

    • Improved memory retention
    • Faster learning
    • Better concentration
    • Reduced brain fog
    • Lower risk of cognitive decline

    This means your workout isn’t just building muscle—it’s building a stronger, more resilient brain.


    Top Fitness Influencers on Exercise & Brain Health

    Many leading fitness and health experts consistently highlight the brain-boosting benefits of exercise:

    Dr. Andrew Huberman (Neuroscientist & Fitness Educator)
    Huberman frequently talks about how cardiovascular training improves memory and learning by increasing dopamine and BDNF levels. He recommends:

    • 20–30 minutes of moderate cardio
    • 3–5 times per week
    • Including occasional high-intensity intervals

    Jillian Michaels (Fitness Expert & Trainer)
    Jillian emphasizes that strength training isn’t just for your body—it improves cognitive performance and confidence. Resistance training has been shown to:

    • Improve executive function
    • Enhance problem-solving skills
    • Support long-term brain health

    Kayla Itsines (Fitness Influencer & Trainer)
    Kayla promotes consistent movement for mental clarity and stress reduction. Lower stress means better memory formation and improved focus throughout the day.


    Best Workouts for Memory Improvement

    At Union Studio, we recommend a mix of training styles to maximize brain benefits:

    • Cardio Training
      Boosts blood flow and oxygen to the brain
      Examples: treadmill, cycling, rowing, brisk walking
    • Strength Training
      Improves cognitive function and mental resilience
      Examples: squats, deadlifts, resistance training circuits
    • Coordination-Based Exercises
      Enhance neural connections
      Examples: agility drills, balance work, functional training
    • Mind-Body Movement
      Improves memory and emotional regulation
      Examples: yoga, Pilates, breath-focused training

    Tips to Maximize Brain Benefits from Your Workouts

    1. Stay consistent – 3–5 workouts per week is ideal for cognitive improvement
    2. Challenge your coordination – New movement patterns stimulate the brain
    3. Combine cardio + strength – This combo gives the biggest memory boost
    4. Sleep well – Exercise + sleep = optimal memory formation
    5. Fuel properly – Protein, healthy fats, and hydration support brain recovery

    Final Thoughts

    Your brain thrives on movement. Every time you train, you’re improving your ability to think clearly, remember more, and stay mentally sharp. At Union Studio, we design programs that support both physical and cognitive performance, helping you become stronger in every way.


    Call to Action

    Ready to train your brain and your body?
    Come experience the difference at Union Studio.

    Our personalized training programs are designed to boost strength, confidence, memory, and mental clarity. Let’s build a smarter, stronger version of you—starting today.

    Visit Union Studio
    Book your first session. Train smarter. Move better. Think sharper.

  • How to Protect Your Knees: Strengthen Your Hamstrings & Stretch Your Quads

    Tips from Union Studio for Long-Lasting Joint Health

    Your knees are some of the most critical and hardworking joints in your body. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or simply trying to stay active, healthy knees are essential for movement, pain-free workouts, and everyday life. At Union Studio, we’re passionate about helping you build strong, resilient bodies — and that starts with taking care of your knees.

    In this blog, we’ll explain why strong hamstrings and flexible quads are vital for knee health, how to train them properly, and expert insights from fitness influencer Jeff Nippard to help you train smarter, not harder.


    Why Knee Health Matters

    Your knees support every step you take — from walking and running to squatting and jumping. But they’re also vulnerable. Poor muscle balance, tight quads, or weak hamstrings can lead to knee pain, injury, or long-term wear and tear.

    Key benefits of prioritizing knee care:

    • Reduced knee pain and injury risk
    • Better movement mechanics
    • More power and stability in your workouts
    • Enhanced quality of life

    The Hamstring–Quad Balance: Your Knee’s Best Friend

    When it comes to knee safety, muscle balance matters. Two muscle groups play a starring role:

    Hamstrings (back of the thigh)

    These muscles help stabilize the knee, control your stride, and support hip extension.

    Why they matter:
    Weak hamstrings can leave your knees vulnerable to stress because your quads end up doing too much of the work — especially in movements like squats, lunges, and running.

    Quadriceps (Quads) (front of the thigh)

    Your quads are powerful knee extensors and critical for daily movement.

    Why stretching them matters:
    Tight quads can pull on your kneecap and disrupt your knee tracking, leading to pain, irritation, or injury.


    How to Strengthen Your Hamstrings

    Here are effective exercises you can do at Union Studio (or at home) to build knee-protecting hamstring strength:

    Romanian Deadlifts

    • Great for posterior chain strength
    • Emphasizes hamstrings and glutes

    Glute-Ham Raises or Hamstring Curls

    • Target hamstrings directly
    • Improve muscle coordination around the knee

    Nordic Hamstring Curls

    • High-impact strengthening with knee-stability benefits

    Pro Tip: Start with light resistance and perfect your form — hamstrings are powerful but need controlled training.


    Stretching Your Quads – Why and How

    Stretching helps reduce tension in your quads so your knees can track smoothly.

    Standing Quad Stretch

    • Stand tall, pull your heel toward your glutes
    • Hold for 30–45 seconds

    Hip-Flexor Stretch with Quad Emphasis

    • Adds hip mobility to the stretch
    • Great for runners and people who sit frequently

    Consistency wins. Stretch after every workout and on rest days to maintain flexibility.


    Expert Insights: Jeff Nippard on Hamstring & Quad Training

    Fitness coach and science-based trainer Jeff Nippard emphasizes the importance of balanced training for knee safety. In his popular videos and programs, Jeff breaks down:

    • How hamstrings act as a dynamic stabilizer for the knee
    • Why a strong posterior chain reduces injury risk
    • How mobility work improves tracking and movement quality

    His evidence-based approach aligns perfectly with Union Studio’s philosophy: build strength, enhance flexibility, and train intelligently. (You can link this to one of his videos or specific programs on YouTube or his site for added value!)


    Putting It All Together: Weekly Knee-Friendly Training

    Here’s a sample weekly plan:

    DayFocus
    MondayHamstring Strength + Mobility
    WednesdayLower Body with Quad Stretches
    FridayFull Body + Balance Work
    DailyLight quad stretching (5–10 min)

    Final Thoughts

    Caring for your knees doesn’t happen by accident — it happens by design.
    By strengthening your hamstrings and keeping your quads flexible, you give your knees the best chance at long-term health, pain-free workouts, and improved performance.

    At Union Studio, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Ready to build stronger knees and move with confidence? Let’s train smart together — reach out and book your next session!

  • How to Increase Your Endurance: 7 Proven Tips to Boost Stamina and Performance By Union Studio Personal Training

    If you want to run longer, train harder, and feel less fatigued during workouts, building endurance is the key. Endurance isn’t just for runners or athletes—it’s essential for anyone who wants better cardiovascular health, improved energy, and stronger overall fitness. With the right training strategies, you can significantly increase your stamina and workout performance.

    Fitness expert and endurance coach Alex Hutchinson, author and contributor to Outside Magazine, often emphasizes that endurance improves through consistency, progressive overload, and smart recovery. His research-based approach to training shows that small, steady improvements lead to major performance gains over time—something we strongly believe in at Union Studio.

    Here are our top endurance-boosting tips:


    1. Train Consistently

    Consistency is the foundation of endurance. Aim for at least 3–5 cardio or endurance-focused workouts per week. This can include running, cycling, rowing, swimming, or circuit-style strength training.


    2. Use Progressive Overload

    Gradually increase the intensity, duration, or frequency of your workouts. This challenges your cardiovascular system and muscles to adapt and become stronger.
    For example:

    • Add 5 more minutes to your cardio sessions
    • Increase resistance slightly
    • Add one extra interval to your HIIT workouts


    3. Incorporate Interval Training

    High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is one of the fastest ways to build endurance. Alternate between short bursts of high effort and periods of recovery.
    Alex Hutchinson frequently highlights interval training as a top method to increase VO₂ max and overall endurance.


    4. Strength Train for Endurance

    Many people think endurance is only cardio-based, but strength training improves muscular endurance and efficiency. Compound movements like squats, lunges, deadlifts, and push-ups help your body work harder for longer periods.


    5. Focus on Breathing Techniques

    Controlled breathing improves oxygen delivery and helps reduce fatigue. Practice:

    • Deep diaphragmatic breathing
    • Steady exhale during exertion
    • Rhythmic breathing during cardio


    6. Fuel Your Body Properly

    Endurance requires energy. Make sure your nutrition supports your training:

    • Complex carbs for sustained energy
    • Lean protein for muscle recovery
    • Healthy fats for endurance fuel
    • Proper hydration


    7. Prioritize Recovery

    Rest days, sleep, and mobility work are essential for endurance gains. Overtraining can stall progress and lead to injury.
    Hutchinson often emphasizes that recovery is where adaptation happens, not during the workout itself.


    Learn from a Top Fitness Influencer

    Alex Hutchinson’s endurance-focused articles and research-backed training insights are widely respected in the fitness world. His work explains the science behind stamina, fatigue, and performance improvement, making him a trusted voice for athletes and everyday exercisers alike. Linking your endurance goals with his evidence-based methods adds credibility and depth to your training approach.


    Final Thoughts

    Increasing your endurance is about training smarter, not just harder. When you combine consistent workouts, proper fueling, strategic recovery, and expert guidance, your stamina will steadily improve.


    Ready to take your endurance to the next level?
    At Union Studio, our trainers design personalized endurance programs that build stamina, strength, and confidence. Whether you’re preparing for a race or just want to feel stronger in everyday life, we’ve got you covered.

    Book your free consultation today at Union Studio and start building unstoppable endurance.

  • Working Out When You’re Sick: Smart, Safe Fitness Tips to Protect Your Health

    Staying consistent with your workouts is important — but pushing your body when you’re sick can do more harm than good. At Union Studio, we believe fitness should support your health, not compromise it. If you’ve ever wondered “Should I work out when I’m sick?”, this guide breaks down expert advice, symptom-based rules, and how to safely modify your workouts.

    Can You Work Out When You’re Sick?

    The answer depends on your symptoms, energy levels, and overall health. According to leading health and fitness experts, exercising while sick can be safe only under certain conditions.

    A commonly used guideline is the “neck rule,” supported by medical professionals and fitness leaders.

    The Neck Rule: A Simple Way to Decide

    Above-the-Neck Symptoms

    If your symptoms are mild and limited to:

    • Runny or stuffy nose
    • Mild sore throat
    • Sneezing or sinus pressure

    You may be okay doing light exercise, such as walking, stretching, or gentle yoga. The Cleveland Clinic notes that low-intensity movement may help circulation and improve mood without worsening symptoms.

    Source: Cleveland Clinic – Exercising When Sick

    Below-the-Neck Symptoms

    You should skip your workout if you have:

    • Chest congestion or persistent coughing
    • Fever or chills
    • Body aches or extreme fatigue
    • Nausea or dizziness

    According to Healthline and the Mayo Clinic, exercising with these symptoms can delay recovery and increase the risk of dehydration or injury.

    Sources: Healthline & Mayo Clinic on working out while sick

    How to Modify Your Workout When You’re Sick

    If you feel well enough to move, the key is modification — not intensity.

    Best Exercises When Sick

    • Walking
    • Gentle yoga or mobility work
    • Light stretching
    • Easy cycling

    Fitness experts at Nike Training emphasize reducing workout intensity to 50% or less and avoiding high-intensity training until fully recovered.

    Source: Nike – Should You Work Out When You’re Sick?

    What to Avoid

    • HIIT workouts
    • Heavy strength training
    • Long endurance sessions
    • Group fitness classes or shared gym spaces

    Not only can intense workouts stress your immune system, but training in public spaces can also spread germs.

    Does Exercise Help You Recover Faster?

    Despite popular belief, you can’t “sweat out” a cold. Experts from the Cleveland Clinic confirm that rest, hydration, and sleep are more effective for recovery than exercise when you’re sick.

    Light movement may improve circulation and mood — but rest is often the most productive choice.

    When to Return to Your Normal Workout Routine

    Once symptoms improve:

    • Start with shorter sessions
    • Keep intensity low for the first few workouts
    • Focus on hydration and proper nutrition
    • Listen closely to how your body responds

    Nike trainers recommend easing back into your routine gradually to avoid setbacks.

    Why Smart Training Matters

    At Union Studio, we coach our clients to train intelligently, not emotionally. Taking a rest day when you’re sick:

    • Protects your immune system
    • Prevents injury
    • Helps you return stronger and more consistent

    Fitness isn’t about pushing through illness — it’s about long-term health and sustainably

    Ready to Train Smarter, Not Harder?

    If you’re unsure how to adjust your workouts — whether you’re sick, stressed, or low on energy — working with a professional trainer makes all the difference.

    Train smarter at Union Studio.
    Our personalized training programs are built around your body, your lifestyle, and your health — so you can stay consistent without burnout or setbacks.

  • What I Think About New Year’s Resolutions in Fitness

    The Problem with Traditional “New Year, New Me” Goals

    Every January gyms flood with hopeful members — and by February attendance drops sharply. Most of this isn’t about motivation, it’s about unrealistic or vague resolutions like “exercise more” or “lose weight,” which don’t come with a plan or structure. Studies show that nearly 80–90% of New Year resolutions fail by February because they don’t include clear steps, support systems, or adaptability. Fitness+1

    Other common pitfalls people fall into include:

    • Setting all-or-nothing goals (e.g., working out 7 days per week) that lead to burnout. The Mats
    • Lack of accountability and support, which greatly increases dropout. trainwell
    • Ignoring long-term habits, focusing instead on short bursts of enthusiasm. Fitness

    The Better Way: Intentions and Habit-Based Goals

    Instead of traditional resolutions, guide your audience toward intentions and small sustainable improvements:

    • Think intentions over rigid “resolutions” to build long-term lifestyle changes. The Washington Post
    • Focus on tiny daily routines and progressions — consistency beats intensity. trainwell
    • Stay flexible and compassionate with yourself — setbacks are part of the journey. Psychology Today

    This reframing makes people feel successful, not defeated, and keeps them engaged with your services.


    Chloe Ting — one of the most followed fitness influencers in the world, known for accessible workouts and community-focused fitness challenges. Her content is centered on habit formation, incremental progress, and home-based fitness — a great entry point for resolver seekers. Wikipedia

    “Check out Chloe Ting’s workout programs and philosophy on building consistent, realistic fitness habits that can actually stick into 2026 and beyond.” (link to https://www.chloeting.com)


    Ready to make 2026 the year you keep your fitness goals for good?
    At Union Studio, we don’t believe in quick fixes — we believe in smart planning, accountability, and personalized support that helps you build habits that stick.
    Book your FREE goal-setting session today and let’s create a training plan that works for your life, not just your resolutions.

  • Eat for Balance: How Food Supports Female Hormones, Eases PMS & Menopause

    At Union Studio, we believe in training the whole person — body and hormones included. Hormonal balance plays a huge role in energy, mood, metabolism, sleep, and overall wellbeing. While hormones are influenced by many factors (stress, sleep, genetics, activity), what you eat has a powerful impact too.

    Why Nutrition Matters for Female Hormones

    Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate everything from your menstrual cycle to stress response and fat storage. Certain foods help support hormone production, balance estrogen and progesterone, and manage symptoms linked to PMS, perimenopause, and menopause — such as cramps, mood swings, fatigue, bloating, hot flashes, and brain fog. HUM Nutrition+1

    Top Foods That Support Hormonal Balance

    Here’s how to nourish your body to help it function at its best:

    Healthy Fats & Omega-3s

    • Salmon, sardines, mackerel – rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support hormone production and reduce inflammation. HUM Nutrition+1
    • Avocados & nuts/seeds – monounsaturated fats help regulate estrogen and increase satiety. Marielena Guerra

    Leafy Greens & Cruciferous Veggies

    • Spinach, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts – high in magnesium and fiber, these support cortisol regulation and estrogen metabolism. HUM Nutrition+1

    Whole Grains & Fiber

    • Quinoa, oats, brown rice – slow-release carbs that help stabilize blood sugar and insulin — key players in hormone balance. Marielena Guerra

    Seeds

    • Flax, chia, pumpkin seeds – plant phytoestrogens and omega-3s that support estrogen balance and lessen PMS symptoms. HUM Nutrition+1

    Fermented Foods

    • Greek yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut – probiotics that boost gut health, which is tightly linked to hormone metabolism and immune health. ASTR Institute

    Anti-inflammatory Ingredients

    • Turmeric & ginger – anti-inflammatory spices that support the body’s response to hormonal stress. Maddy Pollack Health

    Bonus: Lifestyle & Snack Tips

    Managing hormones isn’t just about what you eat — when and how you eat matters too.
    Experts often recommend:

    • Balanced meals with protein, healthy fats, and fiber to stabilize blood sugar. Herald Sun
    • Strategic snacks (like Greek yoghurt + berries or mini egg muffins with greens) for hunger and mood support during luteal phases of your cycle. Marie Claire UK

    Influencer Insight: Jessie Inchauspé — The Glucose Goddess

    When we talk about food for hormone balance, one name worth following is Jessie Inchauspé (@glucosegoddess) — a top nutrition influencer in 2025 who focuses on blood sugar regulation, a cornerstone of hormonal health. Her science-backed meal hacks help women reduce energy crashes, cravings, and mood swings — all common signs of hormonal imbalance. Amra and Elma LLC

    Final Takeaway

    Eating hormone-supportive foods doesn’t solve every imbalance, but it gives your body the building blocks it needs for better energy, smoother cycles, and fewer menopausal symptoms. By focusing on whole foods, healthy fats, fiber, and probiotics, you can take control of your nutrition and support your hormones naturally. Maddy Pollack Health

  • Merry Christmas and a Happy New Rear

    The Best Glute Exercises for Strength, Shape & Performance

    Written by Union Studio – Your Home for Strong, Functional Fitness

    If your goal this season is to build stronger, more sculpted glutes, you’re in the right place. Strong glutes don’t just look great — they support your lower back, improve posture, enhance athletic performance, and help prevent injuries.

    To help you get results, we’ve broken down the top glute-building exercises recommended by fitness pros and backed by science, with training tips you can start using today.

    Why Glute Training Matters

    Your glutes — the gluteus maximus, medius, and minimus — are among the largest and most powerful muscles in your body. When they’re weak, other muscles overcompensate, leading to movement imbalances and pain. Strengthening your glutes improves:

    • Hip stability
    • Posture
    • Athletic performance
    • Everyday movement
    • Muscle tone and strength

    Top Glute Exercises That Work

    Below are the most effective moves for glute strength & growth — whether you’re a beginner or ready to level up your training.

    1. Barbell Hip Thrusts

    Why it works: One of the best exercises for maximum glute activation. Hips thrusts isolate the glutes more than squats or deadlifts, making them essential for progress. Tom’s Guide
    Perform 4-5 sets of 6-12 reps with a controlled tempo.

    2. Squats & Variations

    Why it works: Deep squats hit the gluteus maximus along with quads and core. Go deep and maintain form to truly engage the glutes. MUI FITNESS EN

    3. Romanian Deadlifts (RDLs)

    Why it works: This hip-hinge movement targets the posterior chain — glutes and hamstrings — with excellent tension throughout the range of motion. Body Network

    4. Lunges & Step-Ups

    Why it works: These unilateral movements improve balance and isolate each glute independently — great for symmetry and strength. Body Network

    5. Glute Bridges / Band Work

    Why it works: Excellent for beginners or as a warm-up activation before heavier lifts. Add resistance bands for extra tension. Fresh Health Glow

    6. Fire Hydrants & Donkey Kicks

    Why it works: These bodyweight moves are perfect for activating the glute medius and improving hip stability. theSkimm

    Influencer Spotlight: Jen Selter – Booty Training Queen

    Want inspiration from one of the world’s top fitness influencers? Jen Selter — known for her viral glute training content — shares simple yet powerful glute tips and exercises including deep squats, hip thrusts, and leg raises that help maximize glute tone and strength. MUI FITNESS EN

    Her emphasis on proper form, variation, and consistency aligns perfectly with how we train at Union Studio. Follow Jen’s routines for motivation — but make sure you pair them with personalized coaching to optimize results.

    Ready to Transform Your Glutes?

    At Union Studio, we specialize in personalized strength training programs — from glute-focused sessions to full-body transformations. Whether you’re brand new or chasing performance goals, we’ll help you train smarter.

    Book your free consultation today and let’s build your strongest glutes yet!

    Union Studio – where strength meets support.

  • Why Wearable Tech Is a Game-Changer for Your Fitness Journey

    In today’s fitness world, wearable technology isn’t just a fad — it’s a powerful tool that can transform how you train, recover, and reach your goals. Whether you use a smartwatch, a heart-rate band, or a fitness tracker, wearable devices provide real-time data that gives you clear feedback on your workouts. GymNstrength+2Enicomp+2

    What Wearables Let You Track

    • Heart rate & workout intensity – Wearables allow you to monitor heart rate zones, ensuring you train at the right intensity (not too easy, not too hard). GymNstrength+1
    • Calories burned / energy expenditure – Instead of guessing how many calories you burned, wearable tech gives a data-driven estimation, helping with fat-loss or conditioning goals. Enicomp+1
    • Recovery & readiness metrics – Some devices track recovery indicators (like heart-rate variability or overall stress), helping you and your coach know when to push and when to rest. Virtuagym+1
    • Progress over time – Wearables build a history of your workouts, letting you review trends (better endurance, heart-rate improvements, calories burned, consistency). This makes progress visible and motivating. GymNstrength+1

    Why Tracking Actually Helps

    • Personalized & adaptive training: With real-time feedback, training can be adjusted session-by-session — ensuring workouts are effective and tailored to your body (e.g. adjusting intensity based on readiness or recovery). Forbes+1
    • Motivation & accountability: Tracking gives concrete data — you can see your gains, notice patterns, and stay committed. Many wearables also incorporate gamification (like streaks, virtual badges, or milestone tracking), which keeps users engaged. Fitness Australia+1
    • Injury prevention & smarter recovery: By monitoring how hard you push and how well you recover, wearables can warn you when you might be overdoing it — reducing risk of burnout or injury. bigemma.com+2teitarc.com+2

    Real-World Inspiration: From Influencers to Everyday Athletes

    One influencer who embodies the power of structure, consistency, and smart training is Kayla Itsines — the Australian personal trainer behind the hugely popular “Sweat with Kayla” programs. Wikipedia

    Kayla’s approach — combining planned workouts, recovery, and healthy habits — aligns perfectly with what wearable tech enables. Imagine marrying her structured programming with wearable data: tracking heart rate zones, monitoring recovery, and visualizing progress over weeks. That kind of synergy turns a fitness plan into a precision-tuned journey.

    Incorporating stories or references from influencers like Kayla can help your clients relate — and see wearable tracking not as a gadget, but as a tool that bridges the gap between ambition and results.

    I Recommend Using Wearable Tech ( To Help Clients Thrive)

    • I recommend or integrate wearables for clients — encouraging them to use data to guide workouts and recovery.
    • Use wearable data during training sessions: adjust intensity, ensure proper recovery, or customize programming.
    • Build accountability and community: celebrate milestones, track improvement over time, and help clients stay motivated with visible metrics.
    • Educate clients on interpreting data — explain what heart rate zones, recovery metrics, and consistency actually mean for their fitness goals.

    Ready to take your fitness to the next level with smart, data-driven training? Book a session at Union Studio and I’ll help you integrate wearable tracking into your workouts — so you train smarter, recover better, and see real results.

    Let’s turn every sweat session into progress you can see.

Call Now