We asked. She answered. Get to know Tonal Coach Nicolette Amarillas in her own words.
Where did you grow up and how did you get into fitness?
I grew up in Orange County, CA. I have always been active and had a love for soccer and dance. My freshman year of college was the start of my fitness journey. I read a lot of fitness magazines and did my best to stay educated on how to work out. I quickly decided that I wanted to work in a gym to learn more and the rest is history!
What are your favorite movements on Tonal?
I’m a sucker for pulling movements, specifically the deadlift. My personal clients and my Tonal clients know how much I love a solid deadlift. It’s the king of all exercises and the largest determinant of sports performance! It’s a banger!
What do you do to stay motivated?
I am motivated by results. Not aesthetic or lifting milestones, but by how I feel from the things I do or don’t do. I find a majority of my motivation from listening to my body and answering with exactly what it needs, whether it’s yoga, a lift day, a hike with my dog, or absolutely nothing at all. When I listen to my body, I feel energized and whole, those are the results I look for!
What is your favorite music to sweat to?
I love hip-hop mostly. Really, anything I can shake my booty to while squatting, you know.
Tell us a client success story that inspires you.
One of my clients is a mother of one, a single parent, and full-time working badass. She came to me after her separation with the desire to fall in love with movement and learn how to lift and feel strong. Her vibrancy is tangible, she is strong and always brings 100% to each session. I admire her dedication to feeling and performing at her best and being the best possible mother to her son.
What is your favorite quote?
“Rather than letting our negativity get the better of us, we could acknowledge that right we feel like a piece of shit and not be squeamish about taking a good look.” – Pema Chodron
