Hi, I’m Kiran Dodeja Smith and this is how I work out 

Where do you workout? Why?

In the pool. Outside. Or one of Charlottes fab boutique studios. I like to change things up for two reasons: first off, it’s good for your body. Do you run every day? Yeah – your body’s gonna get used to that and your results may plateau. Second, I get bored. I need to keep things different to keep me motivated.

My favorite way to start the day #Sharethehealth @scoopcharlotte @hilliardstudiomethod

A photo posted by @kdodeja on

Have you always worked out? If not, what was the tipping point that got you started?

I was an athlete growing up. I played competitive tennis starting at age 7; I also swam on the swim team each summer (side note – dreaded it then, but so happy to have those skills now) and dabbled in volleyball as well.

What are your general fitness goals?

It’s my time; it’s my sanity. I have 4 young kids and a part-time job. It’s my selfish hour each day. I love the endorphin rush that I get from it. Oh yeah – it helps keep me in shape, too.

Favorite workout outfit:

Not sure that I have one; I’m a Lululemon fan but also favor Zella and Athleta.

Pre- and post-workout fuel: 

On lazy days, a cup of coffee. No joke. I’m not a coffee drinker, so it gives me a good burst of energy pre-workout. Afterwards I hydrate and will do either dates, an apple or a banana with almond butter.

Fitness inspiration: 

Feeling fit.

Current favorite workout song:

I like to run with no music. There’s something about enjoying the outside, the natural noises and the scenery. And in the pool, I get lost in thought planning my day and setting goals. But in a class, I’m all about the music. It needs to be upbeat.

What’s the most challenging workout/competition you’ve ever completed?

I did the Savannah 1/2 marathon a few years ago. One of my best friends’ husband had passed away a few months prior to, and the race was our dedication to him. It was not only the physical challenge, but the emotional one, as well.

What’s the one fitness gadget/app you can’t live without?

I really love Map My Run. It’s so user-friendly and allows me to not use a Garmin!

What’s your weekly workout schedule?

My current fix is Pilates, so I do that 2x’s a week. I run 3x’s a week and swim once. I’ll go for walks with friends/my husband/my kids/anyone who will join me in-between.

Have you ever been injured? Tell us about the recovery.

Um, too many times to mention. Everything from stress fractures to shin splints, an undiagnosable numbness in my leg to Plantar Fasciitis. It’s horribly annoying to be sidelined, but it gives you perspective and ends up causing you to change your routine or to slow down. At least that’s been my experience.

Do you have any gym pet peeves?

I was into hot yoga for a while and the studio that I went to would be packed, as in mats just inches away from each other. Other people’s sweat dripping on my mat – need I say more?!

What principle from your workouts do you apply in real life?

Hard work. Motivation. Pushing through things. They are all real-life principles that I encounter daily.

Is there anything you don’t eat for health reasons?

I haven’t eaten red meat or pork in 22 years. I gave up chicken about 2 years ago. I eat primarily a plant-based diet with occasional eggs or fish; I’m also lactose-intolerant. No, I don’t get bored, and no, I don’t only eat quinoa.

What’s your guilty pleasure food item?

Nut butters. Spoonfuls of them. Literally, people would die at how much of this I consume on a daily basis. All kidding aside, since I try to limit sugar, I’d say a good piece of cake. And I’m a recovering chocoholic to boot.

Connect with Kiran:

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