Long-time client Christina Phillips is a Senior Instructor at SoulCycle, dancer, and actor living in Manhattan. We’re excited to share a sneak peek into her busy routine. Read on to learn how she fuels her rigorous teaching days, and how she deals with stress in the hustle and bustle of New York City.
Where did your wellness journey start? Was there a turning point in your life when you knew you had to start prioritizing your health?
I was a dancer all of my life and began teaching fitness 10 years ago at Physique 57. I really started thinking about prioritizing my health a few years ago when I was feeling so depleted before/during/after teaching- and realizing I wasn’t eating enough to fuel my day. When I got to 35, I realized my metabolism was slowing down, despite teaching 11 classes a week on the bike, so refocusing on what I was eating was key.
What do you think are the biggest challenges in eating clean?
My biggest challenge is eating at a restaurant or if I am in a hurry. My BF and I like to frequent a few West Village restaurants over the weekend and that makes it difficult to stay in line- especially when wine starts flowing! Another challenge is just eating right to fuel my body during the week when I am teaching 2 and 3 classes per day. I can really feel the difference in my performance and my body when I haven’t properly hydrated or fueled up for that day. I feel sluggish on the bike. Eating clean makes such a difference for me.
Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self?
I would say SO MUCH. I’ll keep it to these few things: Don’t worry so much. Focus on your own journey and everything will fall into place. Self comparison is a killer. You’re freaking awesome.
Why do you choose to eat regularly with Provenance?
With Provenance especially I love how fresh the ingredients are and how unique the recipes are. I feel so much better when I'm eating clean!
Which are your favorite meals?
The most unique meal I’ve had was probably my favorite- Jackfruit Carnitas Lettuce Cups with Cilantro Lime Jicama Rice. So delicious and light! Other favs: Green Goddess Salad with Seeded Avocado, Red Chili Chicken Burrito Bowl with Avocado Sauce. ANY OF THE SALADS- YASSS.
You've been part of the SoulCycle family for over six years now, what has been the most challenging aspect of teaching? What has been the most rewarding?
The challenge changes from year to year. When I first started it was just believing that I could actually do this job- to be interesting enough to captivate NY, strong enough physically and as an instructor. Now the challenge is keeping it fresh- the playlist, the workout, the message. I often have a few folks that will take me multiple times a day or everyday- so keeping it interesting and challenging for them keeps me on my toes. The most rewarding aspect has been finding myself, meeting some of my favorite people in that room and watching them grow. A SoulCycle studio truly is a magical space.
How do you stay sane in the hustle and bustle of NYC? What is your go-to for stress relief?
I’ve been in NYC for 14 years now and I truly believe that its important to get out of the city regularly. Nobody can run on a treadmill forever- its so nice to slow down sometimes. This summer I discovered the cutest getaway in the Catskills called Scribner’s Lodge (dog-friendly too). In the city- I love being outside with my boys- doggos Wilmer, Leroy and my BF. We like to walk along the water on the West Side Highway on Sundays.
Do you have a mantra you try to live life by?
My mantra now is all about change - “Without action you aren’t going anywhere.” If I want more in my life, I have to be the one to take the first step. I’m always down to grow and challenge myself more.
What are three must-have things each week in your wellness routine?
Clean food, naps, sweat!
About Christina
Christina Phillips hails from North Carolina and has lived in NYC for the past 14 years. Along the way, she has performed in TV/Film (NBC’s Mysteries of Laura), Voice overs, and throughout the country in prestigious regional theaters (PCLO, Arena Stage, Pittsburgh Playhouse) in plays and musicals. Despite coming to NYC to pursue a career in dance and theatre, Christina found a career in fitness along the way. With almost 10 years of teaching experience, (ranging from dance, barre and cycling) Christina is currently a Senior instructor at SoulCycle. You can find her at the West Village, Tribeca and Financial District SoulCycle locations and Instagram.
