Riser of the Month: Angela Katzenberger

Angela at Rise Cycle Glen Ellyn

A year ago, after hearing long-time Riser Amy Eaton talk about what makes Rise a special to workout, Angela Katzenberger mustered the courage to follow her friend’s lead. “Every time I saw Amy I said I want to look as strong and healthy as she does,” says Angela. “So, I finally stopped making excuses and signed up and it has been absolutely life changing. I never thought I was someone who would ever enjoy working out, and I can tell you I now love it and can’t live without it!”

Angela knows she has become a better version of herself since working out regularly, not only physically but also mentally. “I love knowing that after an early class I have crossed off one goal for the day and have taken care of myself,” she says. “My mom wasn’t one to practice much self-care growing up and after having two girls of my own I felt myself following suit.”

Angela wasn’t the only one to notice her commitment to Rise. Her daughters ask her each morning after her early Rise classes how her workout was for the day. “I love that I am setting an example for them that taking care of yourself is so important,” she says.

From cycle to kettlebell to strength classes, today Angela doesn’t shy away from trying a variety of what Rise has to offer, and we're always glad to see her. We’re grateful she has made Rise a part of her routine and that she is loving the benefits of her commitment. Angela, congrats on being named Riser of the Month.

Read on to learn more about Angela, her tips to staying well and goals!

What is your fitness background?

My fitness background was extremely limited, the extent of my abilities were lame elliptical sessions. I was so intimidated by the thought of doing real workout classes, yet I knew I needed guidance as I didn’t know how to effectively workout on my own. The first few weeks at Rise I was so hard on myself thinking I would never be coordinated, strong enough or have the endurance to keep up in class. I really have come so far because of all the support and guidance I have been given in every class. The instructors are always helping me with my form, suggesting a modification or lending a lighter or heavier weight. They are truly dedicated to making sure you are getting the most out of your workout.

What is your overall wellness mantra?

Going to sound like a science nerd here, but Newton’s law of inertia - an object in motion stays in motion. If I keep going, keep moving, keep getting stronger, it will only keep me living life to the fullest longer. 

What are your short and long-term workout/wellness goals?

My short-term goal is to vary my workouts a little more. There are still so many classes I haven’t taken in my first year here at Rise. I plan on utilizing Zoom a lot more for the classes I can’t always fit in my schedule. My long-term goal is to really focus on strengthening my core and mastering more Barre and Pilates moves. I find Barre to be one of the most challenging classes, so definitely never watch me at a Barre class! 

How do you integrate nutrition into your life each day?

I have always been someone to lean on a healthy diet to keep me “fit” rather than exercise, and although that is so important, now that I am regularly exercising and doing such effective workouts, I can see how equally important both are. I am a food scientist, so food is a huge part of my life. I am really big on making most of our food from scratch so that I know it is healthy, fresh and free of unnecessary ingredients. I always try to plan out our meals and have fresh fruit and vegetables on hand for snacking. 

What’s your best tip to find balance between nutrition, fitness and life’s fun?

Even with all I do to try and keep our food fresh and healthy, I am still a mom on the go with an insane sweet tooth. So, I truly believe in everything in moderation, and I try not to beat myself up too much when I have a busy week and don’t feel like we made the best choices. We like to hit reset a lot in our house! I try to be more disciplined during the week, and that way the weekend can feel like a little break and allow for a few more indulgences!