My Morning Routine: Callie Gullickson
If we could have even half the amount of Callie Gullickson’s energy, we would be set for the day! From rising (and shining) at 4:30 a.m. to teaching multiple classes and personal training sessions a day, we had to find out her secrets (hint: there’s lots of delicious Trader Joe’s food involved).
Check out the morning routine of this NYC-based Alo Moves fitness instructor below.
4:30 a.m. My initial alarm goes off and I NEVER press snooze. With a few years of being a trainer under my belt, I have learned that waking up to your first alarm sets the tone of our day with an "I got this" attitude. You're ready to take on whatever is thrown your way. Of course I would love to sleep in, but then I remember I have clients counting on me and it keeps me motivated.
4:35 a.m. I make myself a double shot of espresso — don't get me wrong, I love a good iced coffee. But when it’s early and I'm in a rush, espresso is the answer.
4:37 a.m. Lately I’ve been OBSESSED with ice rolling my face. It seems bizarre, but it really wakes me up. I purchased it from Amazon! I also apply my favorite beauty products such as…
Moisturizer: Biossance - Squalane + probiotic gel moisturizer
Tinted SPF: IT Cosmetics — I get it from Sephora
4:45 a.m. I am out the door and walking to the subway. Usually when I get on the train, my AirPods go in and I like to play audiobooks. The most recent one I listened to was GRIT by Angela Duckworth.
5:10 a.m. I get to Rumble, the studio I work at, and go over my classes, music, and programming. I teach both our training (treadmill) class and our boxing class.
6:00 a.m. I have my first class. I usually teach 2-3 a day! The class is 50 minutes long and I stand on a stage and instruct clients on both sides of the room. Lights, music, and projections help me create a group fitness experience like no other. I owe my comfortability standing and instructing to a room of 60 people to my dance and performance background. Believe it or not, it gives me the same feeling as well and it constantly reminds me that I'm on the right path.
7:00 a.m. I eat my breakfast. My go-to has been Trader Joe’s overnight oats. They're premade, next to the yogurt, and are soaked in almond milk and cinnamon. One — you should know I'm a huge fan of Trader Joe’s. Two — these oats are my newest obsession. I even managed to get my fiancé hooked on them as well. I eat them for breakfast while he eats them as a dessert after dinner.
8:00 a.m. I teach my second class of the day!
9:00 a.m. At this time, I usually am in need of an actual coffee. I am an iced coffee gal, even in the depths of winter! I don't add sweetener or milk unless I'm really craving something creamier.
10:00 a.m. I have a personal training session with one of my clients. I usually have 2-3 a day! Working one-on-one is so rewarding for me! Not only do I get to help them, but I really get to know them throughout the process and it truly enriches my day.
11:00 a.m. I head to my boxing gym to meet my trainer Stephen Frank. Everyone needs a trainer! I like to surround myself with people who see my potential and push me to my limits and he does just that. I usually start my sessions with six minutes of jump rope. Then we work in the ring on my footwork, technique, defense, and finish with some conditioning. Boxing is my outlet and I walk out feeling strong, capable, and confident! We all deserve to feel that way after we move.
12:00 p.m. By this time, I am beat! My mornings are packed as you can see, so I usually make my way home and take a quick nap. I LOVE NAPS. But before my nap, I am sure to refuel. My go-to is Trader Joe’s (obviously) organic Mediterranean salad. If you've never tried it, you need to! During this time I usually decompress and jot down a few things I need to do later in the week in my weekly calendar before heading back out to teach another class or have another personal training client.
This article is part of our monthly blog series, My Morning Routine. Stay tuned each month as we highlight the morning routines of your favorite yoga teachers on Alo Moves!
Want to sweat with Callie? Practice her strength and HIIT series Sweat and Tone on Alo Moves! Get started with a 14-day free trial here.