A plank is a full-body workout that strengthens and tones your core, glutes, arms, and legs and helps to build a solid foundation for any full-body workout. And the best part is that it requires no extra equipment, relying totally on your own body weight. The meditation will have you thinking about the Simplicity of Jesus. Planks can be challenging and require that you use good form. Be sure to watch Simplicity: Planks INSTRUCTIONAL and Simplicity: Planks 2 and 3 Point Stability INSTRUCTIONAL before attempting the workout.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Building on the Resistance Chest and Shoulders Gentle and Intermediate, this more advanced class gives the option to increase the weight, use kettlebells, and a few extra exercises. You will leave the class feeling fluid and strong – ready to take on the day! You can make it easier by decreasing the weights or harder by upping the weights and repeating the video.
As in Pietra Power Kick 1, this class is a fast-paced advanced workout that hits every aspect of your physical fitness: strength, cardio, and flexibility. After the warm-up, you will be taken through a series of Squat + Presses along with Squat + Roundhouse Kicks. In the second series, Jhoe will lead you through front and back kicks along with lateral ladder runs in place and squat jumps. Bring your water! You will need it!! Don’t worry, the wind down is soothing and relaxing so you will leave the class feeling strong yet calm. The meditation will have you contemplating Mary, our Mother in Faith.
Deacon Keith Fournier, Behold Your Mother: Jesus Gives Us His Mother and Expands the Family Circle, Catholic Online, http://www.catholic.org/news/hf/faith/story.php?id=47749
Sarah Christmyer, Behold, Your Mother: Comfort from the Cross, http://biblestudyforcatholics.com/behold-mother-comfort-cross/
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
A fast-paced advanced workout that hits every aspect of your physical fitness: strength, cardio, and flexibility. First, warm up and prepare for the workout by moving the spine in all directions and firing up the core. This workout includes two sets. Each set has a strength portion, a cardio portion which includes kicks, and a stretch portion. Bring a towel and water, you will need it as you head into the wind down. The meditation will have you contemplating the Birthday of Our Lady. Leave this class feeling strong, confident, and closer to Mary.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Improve your fitness, stamina, and overall health. If you are comfortable with an intense fitness class and are looking for a powerful Pietra Fitness class where you will improve your fitness, stamina, and overall health, then this is the class for you. Jhoe moves at a bit faster pace then will hold your body in a particular position which fires up your muscles and makes them work hard to keep you there, boosting your muscle strength and endurance. Props are used but not necessary. The meditation will have you contemplating Psalm 46.
Excerpt from Sarah Christmyer, Lord Make Haste to Help Me
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichabbey.com)
Having a strong lower body also helps you to move with ease through your day as well as improve your performance during activies like running, cycling or team sports. In this class you will strengthen muscles in the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. Jhoe gives some modifications if you are newer to this type of strength training, or ones to work harder if you want to power into your routine.
This short workout uses a stability ball to give you some fun and different ways to work the core. Jhoe offers some advanced exercises that requires strong stabilizers and knowledge of a stability ball. If you are new to an exercise ball, take it slow and realize there are risks for falling off the ball, particularly in some of the more advanced movements. Perform the exercises slowly and with control. Maintain proper body position.
Are you looking to work out your upper body without needing any extra equipment? Then Body Weight: Upper Body could be just what you are looking for. This class will build strength and muscular endurance in the upper body simply using the weight of your own body to challenge your muscles.
Jhoe will definitely increase your heart rate as you move through various exercises. You will increase your stamina and burn calories during this intense but fun workout. Some movements can be both high or low impact depending on how you feel that day. Grab a towel, and let’s get sweaty!
You will not want to miss this core class that will improve functional strength for daily activities, while toning and strengthening the entire trunk. It is an intermediate class but can be suitable for advanced participants as well. Come and stand at the foot of the Cross with Mary as we meditate on the Sorrowful Mysteries.
St. Pope John Paul II, Rosarium Virginis Mariae
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This class is a total body workout that tones the body while bringing on the sweat. In certain parts of the class, Jhoe gives you the option to raise the heart rate more by making it high impact or keep it a low impact class. Your choice. She uses a paper plate (slider), but you can do the class without it. Spend time with Mary as she leads you to the secret of Christian joy!
St. Pope John Paul II, Rosarium Virginis Mariae
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Learning how to correctly hinge at the hips is a skill that is perfected with practice; and you will get plenty of that in this short 11 minute class. You will work on the posterior chain (backside), mainly the glutes, hamstrings, and low back, as well as the core. But Lori has masterfully created a routine that will also give you a great shoulder and upper back workout. Well worth the 11 minutes!!
If you are looking for a full-body exercise that increases strength and flexibility, Inchworm is for you! This class will work your legs, arms, core and back, while the meditation will have you focusing on unity.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Our Lady of Victory Parish Bulleting, July 10, 2022. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Watch “Back Resistance Introduction” before doing one of the back resistance classes for the first time. As you become comfortable with the advanced class, try adding a little more weight or repetitions. You will need a barbell, body bar, or hand weights.
Kick your practice up a notch with this advanced lunges class. Lunges are a functional, powerful exercise that helps you to tone and strengthen almost every muscle in the lower body including the core, quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. You will also stretch the hip flexors. There are so many benefits to lunges, we just had to include them in this series. The meditation will have you thinking about the importance of sleep.
Pope Francis, January 2015, Meeting with Families, Philippines
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
An advanced class that works the whole body but focuses on the lower body. With flows that cultivate balance, stability, flexibility, and strength. The meditation and Scripture will have you contemplating being the woman God created you to be.
Excerpt from Manual for Women, Danielle Bean (TAN). Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Come ready to work hard, and prepare to sweat! You will challenge your whole body while focusing on balance and core strength using a balance dome (bosu ball). If you don’t have a balance dome, no worries, you can use the floor and still get a good workout. Light to medium weights are used but not required. The meditations will have you focusing on the Beatitudes and how they are the owner’s manual to life.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for February 25, 2022, The Owner’s Manual to Life. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you looking for a class that increases flexibility, strengthens your muscles, and builds muscular endurance? Look no further! This workout focuses on building strength in your upper body while also providing calming movement. Modify the class to work for you. As you build strength and endurance, you can increase the time you hold each posture or increase the reps for the sequences. Need an extra challenge? Consider repeating all or part of the class. The Scripture and Prayers will have you contemplating the Beatitude; Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for February 17, 2022, Blessed are the Those Hunger. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This lower body and core strength advanced workout includes various exercises that target the legs, hips, glutes, abs, and back. The slower intentional movements, longer holds on the poses, and core moves will challenge balance, stability, stamina, and strength. You will use your own body weight as resistance to build long, lean muscles! You will leave the class feeling challenged and motivated. The prayers and meditation focus on the Beatitude, Blessed are the Poor in Spirit.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for February 14,2022, Blessed are the Poor in Spirit. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
If you don’t have time for a long workout, but you want to warm-up, elevate your heart rate and sweat, and then wind down with a beautiful stretch and pray at the same time, then this class is for you! You can do it all in less than 30 minutes! If this is your first time trying it, see the short Instructional Video prior to beginning. Don’t forget your water and towel! The meditation focuses on Friendship with Jesus.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for January 24, 2022, Friendship with Jesus. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This energetic class will leave you sweaty and energized. Starting with a warm-up, you will move into heart-pumping intervals of work that target the lower body. Squats, lunges, skaters, planks, bear crawls, burpees, and more are included. Don’t forget your water and towel! The meditation focuses on the Beatitude; Blessed are the Meek.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for February 14,2022, Blessed are the Meek. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you looking for a cardio class that is different, fun, and will engage your mind? Forget your traditional workouts, put on your gloves and get ready for a full body workout like no other! Fitness boxing is a fantastic cardio workout that improves strength, oxygen levels, and cognitive skills. It requires you to put your entire body into it, pushing off from your feet, rotating your torso, coordinating body and hands, as well as your brain – all at once. Marked as advanced, but suitable for intermediate by stopping for more breaks and listening to your body. Don’t worry if you don’t have gloves, just use your hands and join us for this high-energy, sweat-inducing boxing workout!
This 11-min core class is designed to strengthen the muscles of the lower abdominals, upper abdominals, obliques, and back with non-stop core boosting moves and a plank challenge at the end. Use this as a stand-alone workout or as a great addition to other workouts.
Are you feeling stress or anxious and looking for a way to relax? Or do you just want to unwind? Deep breathing is one of the best ways to lower stress in the body. It is a gift from God, and it is free! Join Jill for an 11-minute video that will have you at ease and calm in no time! No need for music here, the sound of the waves are great for activating your parasympathetic nervous system helping you to breathe easy.
Let’s sweat it out in this Cardio Kickboxing Burner!! Build stamina, improve coordination and flexibility, and burn a ton of calories as you build lean muscle with this fun and challenging workout. You will leave this class feeling ready to take on whatever the day brings you!!
Are you ready to sweat and feel the burn with this Total Body bodyweight strength class? Incorporating strength and cardio gets your heart rate up for a total calorie burner. You will be doing Curls, Fire Hydrants, Sprints, Chest Presses, Deadlifts, Rows, Lunges and Planks!
This Full Body class is a complete and constant workout incorporating weights, with minimal rest! In this class you will be doing Reverse Lunges, Burpees, Arabesque, Reverse Flys, Rows Pulsing, Alternating Chest Press, and Regular Chest Press. Make sure you have some water and a towel for this one!
Nothing is more gratifying than a strength leg burn! Lori will lead you through a series of squat variations and lunges in this quick 12-minute lower body workout that will sure having you feeling the burn. Be prepared for the bonus heel lifts!
It's all about the shoulders! Even though Jill works out the whole arm in this class, she focuses on shoulders, which is an important part of any arm strength regimen. This class will help to increase the range of motion and improve the stability and function of the shoulder joint. Have fun with trap music and leave feeling like you can move better! The meditation will have you contemplating God’s Mission for us.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, Fr. Ben’s Column for January 23, 2022.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This complete body workout challenges both your muscular strength and muscular endurance. Every muscle group is targeted, leaving you feeling worked from head to toe! Jhoe uses light, medium, and heavier hand weights, but use what works best for you. It is an intense workout for the advanced participant, but finishes up with a full body stretch which will have you feeling great at the end!
Are you looking for an amazing leg workout for building strength and power in your lower body? You are in the right place! Rachel will have you doing squats with pulses, wide squats with pulses, kettle bell swings, single leg deadlifts, reverse lunge plus kicks, and more. Get ready to work and sweat!
Are you ready to focus on strengthening and toning your trunk? You can use this workout by itself, or you can use it in addition to our other routines for additional core work. Rachel begins with plank which provides an effective warm-up plus it works all the major core muscles as well. She then moves into reverse plank, side crunches, slow mountain climbers, forearm planks, and more! What are you waiting for?
After warming up, Rachel will get your blood pumping with an array of HIIT exercises with 40 seconds on and 20 seconds’ rest. Exercises include mountain climbers, ski or skater jumps side to side, front and back kicks, and burpees. The series is then repeated. Join Rachel for this cardio conditioning class and break a sweat!
This class will get you a "head to toe" toning workout with a 60 second strength workout then a 30 second burst of cardio. Included in the workout are squats, planks, bicep curls, kettle bell swings, and more all followed by 30 second mountain climbers. Whew!!!! Hand weights are used, but feel free to use cans or water bottles.
This class includes strength exercises and cardio segments for a total body workout intended to provide overall fitness and toning by working all major muscle group. Included in the workout are Lunges, lunges with bicep curls, burpees, leg balance with rows, squat knee crunches, kettle bell swings, and more. Hand weights are used, but feel free to use cans or water bottles.
For athletes, upper body strength and flexibility can be crucial, especially for certain sports like rowing, baseball, tennis, volleyball, and pole vaulting. When an athlete is weak in these areas, they can be susceptible to numerous kinds of injuries. Also, the low back muscles often compensate for the arms and shoulders which can result in injury or strain. This workout focuses on building strength in the upper body as well as stretching necessary muscles needed to support upper body movement. The Meditation will have you contemplating God’s gift of rest through sports.
Clare Schiller, Foundation 3 Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This class is great for those wishing to improve their performance in running sports. Many runners focus solely on hitting the pavement but lack the skills necessary to enhance their running outcomes. Lori focuses on running form, mechanics, and knee drive especially using the core. She also focuses on building all those slow- and fast-twitch muscles in your body that will effectively change your running for the better. Be prepared to improve your stamina, speed, strength, and skill! The meditation will have you contemplating the primacy of love.
Clare Schiller, Foundation 3 Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Good footwork is necessary, to a certain degree, in all sports but it is so important in certain sports that increased speed and agility can make or break the game. When you are prepared to move on your feet quickly and precisely, you will start to see that you are in better control of your body throughout your movements. This skill can take your game to the next level. It can also help to reduce the risk of injury as you learn to maintain proper form during quick changes in direction and initiating movements. The meditation will have you focusing on God’s constant gaze of love.
Clare Schiller, Foundation 3 Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Every sport requires rotational movements, but this movement is necessary in higher demands in certain sports such as tennis, golf, figure skating, dance, baseball, and gymnastics. The athlete in these sports uses twisting within the torso to perform the movements needed to play. Lori prepares the rotational athlete by working on strength and mobility in the core and hips as well as the entire body. You will leave the class ready and able to practice your skills in a more improved way. The meditation will have you thinking about God’s plans for you.
Clare Schiller, Foundation 3 Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
The best remedy to staying injury free is to have a consistent program of stretching after your sport or practice. Stretching after your game or workout can help increase your flexibility and range of motion, reduce the risk of injury, decrease muscle tension and stress in your body, and promote increased circulation. It can even help improve your performance the next time you play. The extra time you spend stretching are well worth it; your body will thank you!
Athletes place a high amount of stress on their bodies to compete in sports so they should prepare and be ready! Warming up is a crucial part of preparation. This 17-minute general warmup can be used before any sport or activity. Lori takes you through dynamic exercises that increases the temperature of the muscles, increases the heart rate, and sends blood flow to the working muscles. The movements will also enhance the neuromuscular relationship between the muscles in the body and the nerves, which will help athletes to be in better control of their movements and functions.
This energetic class is packed full of fast moving, strong poses to work on your strength and endurance. Enjoy the fun, faster-paced tunes as you work on variations of Lunges, planks, push ups, core work, and more. You will sweat, but leave the class feeling invigorated and ready for whatever happens next. It will be nice towards the end of class to meditate on Sleep and Trust and how God pours out His graces needed for each day as we sleep.
Sr. Tatum McWhirter, AVI
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Have you always wanted to conquer a backbend? If your answer is yes, then this is the class for you. If your answer is no, you may want to rethink. Backbends have many benefits that will improve your physical as well as your emotional wellbeing. Backbends cause a deep stretching across the front side of the body and a strengthening of the muscles on the back side. They are also a great remedy for those who sit for long periods of time or slouched over a desk. Annie will take you through a warmup that will prepare your body for a full backbend. Feel free to only do what you are able and continue to practice this class until you crush the backbend! The meditation will have you focusing on the importance of being grateful at all times.
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary, No Matter What – Gratitude, August 2, 2021. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
In this 5 minute video, Jhoe will take you through the 8 layers used in Cardio Kickboxing #1. Learn the layers before trying it in the fast-paced workout. Looking for a low impact option? As a BONUS, Jhoe takes you through a low impact option you can learn before doing the class.
(Please check out the Cardio Kickboxing #1 INSTRUCTIONAL video before doing this class.) Punch up your fitness with Cardio Kickboxing #1! Join Jhoe for this explosive class for an intense cardio workout. She will take you through a series of 8 fast-paced combos 8 times (Plus 1 bonus round) with 30 seconds in between. She does a low impact for the first round then ramps it up for the other 8. Do as many rounds or as few rounds as you need. Bring a water and a towel!!
It is crucial to stretch after a workout to prevent muscle soreness and injury and should be an essential part of your well-balanced workout routine. So, whether you have just finished your workout or you are feeling particularly tight, take off your shoes, roll out your mat, and get ready to feel amazing. You may want to have an optional block and blanket/pillow ready. The meditation will have you thinking about how we can change the world by being bearers of gratitude.
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary, Pride, Humility, Gratitude, November 13, 2021. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
Develop and tighten the entire lower body and core with this 40 minute Lower Body Blast. While it is a balanced class and will hit all major muscle groups, this workout focuses on the core, glutes, hips, and legs. The meditation is on self-reliance and how we should be relying on God.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for October 13,2021, Walking on Water. Used withpermission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Besides a mat, you will need an open wall for this class. Annie will lead you through exercises that will prepare you to work on a handstand against the wall. You do not need to do the handstand to benefit from the class, but it is nice to work on it. The meditation will have you focusing on inviting Jesus to protect your home.
Annie Tinker, Foundation 3 Pro Certified Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Besides a mat, you will need an open wall for this class. After warming up, you will go through a flow and then hold up the wall in High Lunge, use the wall in Extended Leg Reach, and then work on a Handstand Prep. The Long Hold feels amazing in Inner Thigh Stretch on the Wall. The meditation will have you pondering Jesus as the Gate.
Pope Francis, Angelus Message on the Gate of Faith, 2013
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Besides a mat, you will need an open wall for this class. Annie uses the warm up and workout to prepare you for headstands against the wall. You do not need to do the headstands to gain benefit. In fact, you may want to do this class many times before even attempting a headstand. The meditation will have you contemplating healthy boundaries in your life.
Annie Tinker, Foundation 3 Pro Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Besides a mat, you will need an open wall for this class. In this 21-minute video, Annie uses the wall to help you open the chest and shoulders while in Lunge 1, as well as exploring good form in Angle and Open Arabesque. She throws in some flows with push-ups to make it more of an Advanced class. The class is concluded with legs up the wall, which is always relaxing yet rejuvenating. The meditation will have you focusing on peaceful stillness.
Annie Tinker, Foundation 3 Pro Certified Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Arm balances require arm and core strength as well as determination and perseverance. Jill helps to make these poses more accessible and fun by using blocks, though they are totally optional. She takes some time to fire up the core and prep the arms for these poses. This class is low impact and good for intermediate and advanced levels. You will want to keep doing Arm Balance Fun until you master the poses. Please share how you are doing with us on social media, and send pics as you work through them! The meditation focuses on living our faith.
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary Meditation, Faith, September 24, 2021. Used with Permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
Plank is a full-body exercise that helps in strengthening the core and building up endurance. Form is important during the plank exercise, and the core muscles must be triggered to keep the spine in a neutral position. Jill begins the class by activating and warming up the core to prepare you for various planks that will surely get your heart pumping. The meditation will have you contemplating the miracles of Jesus
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary podcast, The Miracles of Jesus, September 27, 2021.
Did you know the average American spends around 13 hours a day sitting? All that sitting makes tight hip flexors one of the most common muscle imbalances. But sitting is not the only cause, some athletes are more prone to tightness, and having a weak core can also contribute. When are muscles aren’t working like they should, it can cause all kinds of problems for the everyday person, and even more so for athletes. Have no fear, you can correct those tight hip problems by joining Jill for an easy and fun hip fix. The meditation will have you contemplating marriage as a sign of God’s love for us.
Fr. Benedict O’Cinnsealaign, Our Lady of Victory Parish, SundayBulletin meditation for August 22, 2021. Used with permission.
https://www.vincentcatholic.org/holy-matrimony--spousal-image-of-god-s-love
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
While Jill works all the major muscle groups in this class, she pays special attention to the back and chest. Different exercises are incorporated to strengthen the back muscles that support the spine, and opening the chest which will aid in improving posture as well as body mechanics and alignment. If you sit in front of a computer all day or do any kind of regular lifting of weights or heavy objects (children), this class is for you. The meditation will leave you realizing how your self-worth is from God.
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary, Pride Comes from not Knowing our Worth, August 4, 2021. Used with permission.
Lunges help you to strengthen and tone your entire body while also improving your balance and flexibility. They are also known for building lean muscle and reducing body fat, so weight loss is another great benefit. Annie adds in jump switches and core work to make this class an even more efficient workout. If you do this routine often, you are sure to notice visible results. The meditation is on Guarding your Heart.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Join Jill for this 32 minute Advanced class that strengthens and lengthens the quads and hamstrings by different leg extension and flexion exercises. She incorporates various lunges and hip work that leads up to balance poses that involves these same muscles. The meditation will have you thinking about the illusion of control.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for September,2020, Illusion of Control. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey
Are you looking for a class that focuses on exercises that strengthen the muscles in and around your legs and glutes? Then Gluteus Maxed is for you. Jill uses a closed resistance band, but feel free to not use anything. You will still get a great workout! After warming up, you will go through glute bridges, clam shells, leg lifts, and quad strengtheners. Of course, all other muscle groups are hit as well. This class is appropriate for intermediate and advanced levels. The Scripture and meditations will have you contemplating abiding in Jesus as our Living Wall.
Clare Schiller, Foundation 3 Pietra Fitness Instructor
Join Jill for this 24-minute class that gently prepares you for shoulderstand. Inversions are so good for you because they increase circulation, build strength, and help with stress and anxiety. But, if you are feeling uncomfortable or not quite ready for it, feel free to just take your feet up to the ceiling while lying on your back. The meditation is on courage, reminding us that our strength and courage comes from Christ.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Do you have a job that keeps you hunched over a desk all day? This can lead to limited shoulder mobility, which is uncomfortable and can lead to other problems. When you cannot move the way you want to, it can deter you from doing what you want to do. Advanced Shoulder Flexibility will take just a few minutes out of your day but will help you get your shoulders feeling and moving freely and comfortably! The meditation will have you focus on how you are made for greatness!
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, based on his column for the week of May 30, 2021.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Would you like to build endurance in the core as well as stabilize and strengthen the shoulders? If you answered yes, this class is for you! You will encounter the plank in many different variations in this workout while still working your entire body. The meditation will have you focusing on God as the Vine grower.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, based on his column for the week of May 2, 2021.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Improve your balance, strength, and flexibility with exercises that help maintain graceful everyday movements. Erin moves with purpose while hitting every major muscle group, making this a great full-body workout.
Clare Schiller, Foundation 3 Pietra Fitness Instructor
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Join Jill in this 28-minute class as she explores different moves from Pike Pose. Pike Pose is a weight-bearing exercise, so it is a great way to strengthen the upper body and build bone density. It strengthens the arms and shoulders while stretching the whole backside of the body. The meditation will have you contemplating the Holy Trinity in your soul.
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary, The Trinity in my Soul, March 20, 2021
The Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Build strength in your legs and glutes with this 25-minute, lower body workout. While targeting the major muscle groups in your legs, you will gain agility, strength, and endurance. The meditation will help you to focus on Easter and God’s love for you.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, based on his column for the week of Feb. 28, 2021.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Have you always wanted to learn how to do an Arm Balance? If so, this is the class for you. Join Jill as she prepares your body to practice Arm Balance in this 32 min Level 2 Class. Have fun as you challenge yourself, even if you wobble! The meditation will help you to contemplate the meaning of lighting candles.
Pope Francis, Patris corde, December 8, 2020
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Do you have a limited time to exercise but want to increase your physical performance? This class combines various strength exercises to target the major muscles of your body for an effective total body workout. The meditation helps you to focus on St. Joseph.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, based on his column for the week of March 14, 2021.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Maintain and CHANGE your fitness in this workout by quickening the pace or slowing it down when you need to. All about the Speed! is a full-body, low impact class for all fitness levels, and will strengthen your muscles while burning fat! Feel free to use light hand weights (Betsy is using 3 lb dumbbells) to take this workout to the limit!
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
PowerFull is an intensive class that focuses on building core strength while working all the major muscle groups! You are sure to get your heart rate up while gaining strength, flexibility, and coordination. The meditation will help you to contemplate Lent and learning to put others first.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, based on his column for the week of Feb. 28, 2021.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Join Erin for this 38 min class that focuses on whole-body strength with movements that are unhurried and intentional. Holding High Lunge places stress on your hamstrings, glutes, and quads, strengthening those muscles while challenging your balance. The meditation helps you to focus on love as a gift.
Clare Schiller, Foundation 3 Pietra Fitness Instructor
Composed by Jennifer Dirkes, www.jenniferdirkes.com;
If you want a full-body workout that also gives you the opportunity to practice a couple of the more advanced balancing poses, Live from Home: Strengthen Your Balance is for you. This level 2 class begins standing and includes a variety of lunges before Jill gradually instructs you to enter extended leg reach and standing linked backbend. The music is relaxed and the spiritual focus is on how we spend our time during the season of Lent.
Holy Family School of Faith, 45 Days to Deeper Prayer Lenten Volume, pg. 80
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Our goal here is that in just 23-short minutes, you will be stretched, strengthened, more relaxed, and more open to God. If this is your goal too, join Jill for “Hips and Abs in a Flash.” This level 1 class begins seated for deep breathing, gratefulness, side-bends, and twists, followed by a few rolls into a standing hanging position. After opening your arms for your first bodily prayer posture and asking God, “Lord, teach me to pray,” you will swan-dive right into pike pose and some low-lunges with rotations. Although the workout includes exercises to stretch and strengthen every major muscle group, you may notice a focus on your hips (in kneeling side extension with added variations) and your abs (in seated positions reminiscent of V-sit). You will enter a modified upward plank and seated hip-release to relax and stretch the areas you have strengthened. During your seated inner thigh stretch, Jill will read a meditation about how prayer puts you in touch with God Who alone can satisfy your desire for happiness.
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary Meditation, Why Pray?, February 7, 2021. Used with Permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Do you want greater strength but are short on time? In this 25-minute, level 2 class, Jill brings you the essentials of stretching and strengthening all of your major muscle groups. You may notice a focus on plank pose throughout the workout. Did you know that, when held properly, plank pose is one of the best exercises to increase core strength? In addition to helping build solid abs, plank pose strengthens and tones the arms, shoulders, upper back, chest, and thighs, while stretching the calves and arches of feet. The plank and forearm plank poses are woven seamlessly into this workout amidst pike, lunge II, reverse lunge II, side reach, open arabesque, angle pose, and push-ups. After a forward fold and upward plank, you will relax into a reclined inner-thigh stretch for your long hold and listen to a beautiful meditation about Jesus as the Light of the world. The classical, stringed music is reminiscent of the peace, joy, and energy we feel in the presence of light--such as we might feel in the invigorating sunshine after many days of clouds. In quiet pose, you will have the opportunity to reflect on how you can let the light of Christ shine through you to the world.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, for the week of January 31, 2021. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you looking for an opportunity to perfect your standing postures while building greater strength? Live! from Home: Polish Your Postures is for you! In this slower-moving, level 2 class, you will begin seated for your warm-up before transitioning to the standing postures that make up the majority of the workout section. Jill offers numerous cues as you spend time in each posture, giving you the opportunity to polish your postures as you gain strength. The lunge II-reverse-lunge II-angle pose-open arabesque series will strengthen the legs, knees, ankles, arms, core, and glutes and stretch the groins, chest, and lungs. Next, you will follow Jill into arabesque, high-lunge, extended leg-reach and standing half-linked backbend, which will challenge your balance and strengthen your legs, ankles, and back muscles. See what muscles you notice as you hold these poses more intentionally today--you may be surprised at what you feel! As you hold hip-release on each side for your long-hold, Jill will read a meditation about taking responsibility for your actions as a step toward healing. After your cool-down stretches, you will enter quiet pose and enjoy Gregorian chant as you consider what miracles God can work in you when you acknowledge your sins and failings.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for December 30, 2020, Responsibility. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you ready to hold postures longer and build greater strength? Join Jill today for Live from Home: Daring to Live! You will begin in good standing posture for a few minutes of focusing on deep-breathing and gratefulness. After warming up with angel arms, twists, side bends, shoulder stretches, and swan dives, you will pause in rock pose for your first bodily prayer posture as you pray: “Let my heart take courage, for I hope in You, Lord.” You are sure to strengthen your shoulders in the workout which includes pike, low-lunge, forearm plank, forearm pike, pike split, pike hip-opener, high-lunge, as well as a balance series with hamstring curls. Although some of these poses may be held longer than you are used to, feel free to adjust as necessary for yourself. As you enter a hip release pose for your long-hold, you will meditate on the meaning of life (being loved by God and loving Him in return) and becoming your true self (by daring to live fully in response to God's love). We hope you finish class feeling both strengthened and inspired!
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, Fr. Ben’s Column for the week of January 3, 2020
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Do you want to incorporate a cardio component into your Pietra Fitness workout? If so, try Cardio #6: January Jumpstart with Betsy. As a high-intensity-interval training class, “January Jumpstart” is fast-paced and upbeat. You will warm up by marching in place, skipping with a reach, cherry-pickers, jogging in place, and squats. The main section of the workout consists of a series of four exercises repeated four times (inchworms, mountain climbers, oblique crunches, and lunges with knee drives). This series will surely get your heart pumping and strengthen your whole body. Feel free to adjust the pace as you need to. The music will change to Gregorian Chant as you slow your heart-rate and your breath during the cool-down. Betsy will lead you in a few gentle stretches and encourage you to consider this quote by Saint Hilary “The chief service I owe you, O God, is that every thought and word of mine should speak of you.” Because this is not a traditional Pietra Fitness class, round out your workout today with a Gentle or Level 1 class.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Step into the new year with purpose as you join Jill for this upbeat level 2 class, enlivened by forward-moving instrumental music. You will begin by deep-breathing in a seated position, which will help you relax and refocus as you prepare to strengthen your mind, body, and spirit. After warming up, Jill will lead you through a whole-body strengthening series that includes high-lunge, deep-lunge, arabesque, pike, lunge II, reverse lunge II, and angle pose. Jill adds variety to some of these well-known poses that will add an extra challenge to your obliques, abdominals, and balance. As you enter hip release for your long-hold, you will listen to a meditation on setting goals in the new year, making sure to include physical, intellectual, and spiritual goals. The bodily prayer verse will remind you that the Lord alone knows what is best for you--so be sure to plan with Him!
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Live for Advent: A & A – Abs & Arms innovatively focuses on exercises pertaining to your core and arms. After the warm-up, Jill takes you through a series of exercises on the mat that will use your upper, lower, oblique, and back muscles to help tone and strengthen. Push-ups, Planks, and Pikes help to round out the class to make it a great upper body workout. The meditation helps us to consider how Christmas is a time of giving and being grateful.
Holy Family School of Faith, 30 Days to Deeper Prayer, Advent Volume, Advent Giving, pgs. 76-78.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Live for Advent: Balance and Tone covers a variety of exercises designed to improve muscular strength while working on balance and coordination. In the workout, Jill will take you through a series of lunges and standing balance postures that focus on agility and functional strength. The meditation is about John the Baptist and how he was the voice in the desert pointing to the coming of Our Lord. You will have time in Quiet Pose to think about what you stand for while allowing your mind to assimilate all that your body has done.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, Fr. Ben’s Column for the week of Dec. 6, 2020
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you looking for stronger, more defined shoulders? Live for Advent: Bolder Shoulders is for you! In this 37-minute, Level 2 class, Jill will lead you to hold postures that work the whole body, while adding in specific exercises that will stretch and strengthen your shoulders. The warm-up portion of the class includes postures in a cross-legged seated position, side sit, and hands and knees. For the workout, you will engage in a series that includes pike, elevated chest lift, plank, deep lunge, high lunge, lunge 2, and half squats, all while incorporating extra work for your shoulders. Jill uses hand weights at certain points to intensify her practice. You can add them in if you’d like or leave them out! As you begin to wind-down, you will enter into a seated inner thigh stretch for your long hold. The meditation today is about Christian meditation--you will be reminded of the steps of prayerful meditation and encouraged to make/keep it a regular practice of your life to enter more fully into the life of God that He wants to share with you. The instrumental music for “Bolder Shoulders” is energizing and festive; during quiet pose, it is changed to Gregorian chant as you enter a time of prayer and open yourself to deeper friendship with Christ.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for November 27, 2020, Advent. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
During this 37-minute, level 2 class with Jill, your balance and pelvic floor will be challenged and strengthened while your hip muscles and tendons will be relaxed and lengthened. You will begin in PosturePpose, with deep breathing and thoughts of gratitude and placing yourself in God’s presence when other thoughts disturb you. The warm-up includes a flow to hands and knees for Arch and Round leading into a series that will stretch your sides, your shoulders, and your hips. The workout consists of 2 separate sets of flows that move quickly and seamlessly and include the following poses: Pike, Pike Split (with hip stretch added), Elevated Chest Lift (both on toes and on tops of feet), Side Plank (with optional leg lifts), Hip Release with push-ups, deep squat, Open Arabesque, Angle Pose, and Lunge 2. Jill also adds a variation to hands and knees posture that will move “hands and knees” from a gentle class posture to a level 2 class posture! As you move into Hip Release for your long hold, you will meditate on being a sojourner on this earth whose true home and destination is your heavenly homeland. The instrumental music in this class begins softly and has a more energizing feel during the workout; and, of course, the class ends with peaceful Gregorian chant to help you relax and pray during the quiet pose.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for November 6, 2020, Strangers and Sojourners. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you looking for irRESISTible arms with minimal equipment? Yes please. Live! From Home: Irresistible Arms is just what you are looking for. While barbells, dumbbells, and kettlebells are great, resistance bands are easy and can hit every muscle group while also working on range of motion. In the workout, Jill takes you through a series of Planks to strengthen and prep the muscles. She then takes you through a sequence of arm and shoulder exercises using the band. You can make all of the exercises harder by shortening the band to add resistance or use a band with more resistance. Don’t have a band? No worries! You can still work your arms and shoulders without it. In the wind-down, you will relax with the meditation on joyfulness. So, if you are ready to live joy and get stronger arms and shoulders, grab your band and join us!
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you a weight-lover? (The kind of weights you hold in your hand, of course!) This 29-minute cardio, non-traditional Pietra Fitness class features weights, upbeat music reminiscent of the 80’s, and quick movements to raise your heart rate. You will work out your whole body as you move through exercises both standing and supine, including a variety of squats, lunges, hang cleans, bench presses, deadlifts, deadrows, crunches, hip-bridges, and more. You will cool down as you swiftly move through rock pose, a quad stretch, a bit of twisting, and some angel arms to lower the heart rate. For this workout, you will need a mat, water, weights of some sort (can use dumbbells, soup cans, filled water bottles/jugs, etc.), and shoes to protect your feet. This class begins and ends with a quick prayer and is dedicated to St. Teresa of Avila. Because this is not a traditional Pietra Fitness workout of stretching and strengthening, you may like to follow it up with a Gentle Pietra Fitness class to stretch and relax all those muscles you worked here!
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This 39-minute Level 2 class is filled with exercises that will help you improve your strength, flexibility, and balance. As you work through each posture with Jill, you will enjoy listening to stringed instrumental music that is both peaceful and energizing. You will begin this class either kneeling or standing to focus on your breath and gratefulness to the Lord. After a warm-up that includes a variation of angel-arms and gentle stretches and twists, you will bow as you listen to the bodily prayer verse: “My refuge and my fortress, my God in Whom I trust!” The workout includes single-leg deadlifts, three-way squats, lunge II, angle pose, open arabesque, deep lunges, and high lunges that will strengthen nearly every muscle group and challenge your balance. If you want to increase the intensity of your workout, you can join Jill in wearing a resistance band around your legs as you move into a series of squats, bridges, crunches, and leg-lifts. No band? No worries, you will still get a workout! Next, the double knee stack and double hip release precede the hip-release long-hold. During the long-hold, you will listen to the meditation on the relationship between anxiety, control, and trust in God before you enter a few wind-down stretches and relax into Quiet Pose. The prayers and Scripture encourage us to lay our anxiety aside by trusting in God.
Holy Family School of Faith, Rosary Meditation for October 16, 2020, Break the Anxiety Danger Cycle. Used with permission.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
If you are looking for a fast-paced workout that hits every aspect of your physical fitness, Live! From Home: Powerhouse is for you. This 38 min. class incorporates strength, power, balance, endurance, flexibility, and even some cardio. Join Jill for a series of Planks, Pikes, Lunges, Squats, Balance Poses, and much more. The meditation on Truthfulness helps you to reflect on how Jesus is the Truth, and when you speak the truth, you are imitating Him.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Have a towel and water handy to begin Cardio #4: Fab Abs. It is a 22 min class that integrates interval training techniques with fabulous abdominal exercises. Whether you are Level 1 or Level 2, you can make this class work for you by modifying each exercise. The warm-up goes over the movements used in class, and the workout is 30 sec. on, 30 seconds off with the following exercises: Plank Jump, Elbow to knee Crunches (Do bicycles to intensify), Plank Running climbers, Supine Abs (Lower the legs to boost or make them vertical to ease up), and Standing Heel Taps (Jump to raise the heart rate even more). Take a one minute break and then start over again for 2 more rounds! WOW! You may want to wear shoes for this one!
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Are you looking for a killer core workout that is safe for people who struggle with abdominal separation (also known as diastasis recti)? This ballet-inspired class is for you! In From Home: Ballet Circuit 2, Courtney (a professional ballerina) will take you through a series of dynamic moves that will strengthen and stretch your abdominals and back, including toe touches, Russians twists, elevated chest lift, side plank, and more. And just when you think you've completed the last rep, you'll start the circuit again from the top—twice. By the time you finish this 23-minute class, you'll be standing taller, feeling toner . . . and probably be a little out of breath. No tutu, ballet slippers, or prior ballet experience necessary.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Whether you're not sure if you're ready for a Level 2 class or you're looking for a workout that will challenge you even more, give Live! from Home: Adapt a shot. Every posture and exercise in this 44-minute class can be modified to fit your skill level, meaning you can dial it back if you're not quite there or add weights to work even harder. Like all Pietra Fitness workouts, you'll begin by lengthening through the spine as you focus on your breath and thoughts of gratitude. Get the blood flowing with a few arm circles, side bends, hanging posture, and other gentle stretches that will warm up your entire body. After a few squats, come to hands and knees to work your back (specifically your rear delts), shoulders, and triceps. Engage your core to come to plank and elevated chest lift on toes, and then step into a deep lunge to stretch your inner thighs and hip flexors. Arabesque will challenge your balance and build strength, while V-sit and a shoulder stand will target all the muscles in your core. After relaxing into the long hold, you will roll onto your back for winddown stretches that open up your hip, stretch your hamstrings, and release any lingering tension in your back. The Scriptures and meditations will remind you that God is a loving Father who cares for you.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, weekly bulletin column, week of June 20, 2020
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Get ready to work your core, glutes, and inner and outer thighs in Live! from Home: Feel the Burn. This lively 55-minute class has it all: breathwork, stretches, crunches, planks, leg lifts, lunges, pushups, tricep extensions, quad strengtheners, and unique exercises that utilize a small fitness ball (or block) to engage every muscle in your body. Whether you're eking out the last rep or flowing between standing, kneeling, prone, and supine postures, there's never a dull moment in this Level 1 workout. The Scriptures and meditations invite you to listen more intently for God's voice and challenge you to be more willing to accept God's will no matter how it is delivered to you.
Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary for July 11, 2020: 5 Step Strategy for Joy. Pope Francis, Pope: Docility, not resistance, to the Holy Spirit builds the church
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
If you've ever wanted to try a shoulder stand, now's your chance! In this 43-minute Level 2 class, Jill will lead you through a slow and controlled full-body workout, allowing you to contract your muscles with intentionality. After calming your mind with deep breathing, you'll warm up your body with familiar postures that stretch your neck, back, chest, sides, and hip flexors. V-sit, lifted leg, and lots of rolling will challenge your core and balance before giving the tricky shoulder stand a go. And don't worry if you need to make modifications—Jill offers plenty of ways to adapt the shoulder stand and other poses for varying skill levels. As you relax into hip release for the long hold, the Scriptures and meditations will invite you to place your hope and trust in God and believe that He is working all things for your good.
Excerpt from Holy Family School of Faith, Daily Rosary Podcast for June 4, 2020.
The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
This Level 2 class may only be 39 minutes, but it's jam-packed with heart-pumping flows and dynamic exercises that work your entire body and leave you feeling strong and energized—and out of breath. The upbeat music will inspire you to push even harder, whether that means challenging yourself with extra push-ups or holding a tough posture longer. Get ready for an intense workout that you'll want to include in your fitness routine at least once a week. The Scriptures and meditations in Live! from Home: Jammin' invite you to reflect on how you prepare your soul to receive God's Word and how attentive you are to your inner life.
Fr. Ben O’Cinnsealaigh, Pastor of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Cincinnati, OH, Inspiration for the week of July 12, 2020
Gregorian Chant by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Traditional cardio workouts aren't the only types of exercise that get your heart rate up. The planks, half squats, low lunges, and more in Live! from Home: Ignite will have you needing to catch your breath—and that's just after the warmup! Increase your endurance, challenge your balance, strengthen your entire body, improve your overall flexibility, and get your workout on with this upbeat 47-minute class. The Scriptures and meditations invite you to consider how you can open your heart to receive all of God's gifts.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
Increase your flexibility and physical, mental, and spiritual strength with this 50-minute full-body workout. As in all Pietra Fitness classes, you'll begin Live! from Home: Stamina by calming your mind and nervous system with deep breathing, thoughts of gratitude, and a Scripture verse to help you focus on the class. After warming up your muscles, you'll flow right into long sequences of lunges, planks, pushups, angle pose, and more that are designed to build endurance, challenge your balance, and get your heart rate up. Whether you keep up the intensity or dial it back with modifications, you'll be ready to catch your breath and relax into hip release for the long hold. The Scriptures and meditations throughout this Level 2 class help you understand true meekness and invite you to ponder how well you control your temper.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
Music from Keys of Peace by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Boost your confidence and get tank-top ready with Live! from Home: Tighten & Tone. In this heart-pumping Level 2 class, you will flow through a series of postures and dynamic exercises that target your back, shoulders, arms, and triceps—all while keeping your core tight. Think wide posture pose with lat pulldowns, Lunge 1 with tricep extensions and reverse flyes and planks with knee taps. You can even add light weights for an extra challenge, or take it down a notch with modifications. Regardless of your intensity, your arms and shoulders will definitely be burning by the time you finish this 47-minute workout, The Scriptures and meditations invite you to reflect on the Eucharist as a foretaste of heaven and remind you of the love that Christ has for you.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
Music from Keys of Peace by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
If you are looking to strengthen the core, build stability, or work on your posture, you will love this ballet-inspired class that focuses on the lower body. Like all Pietra Fitness classes, From Home: Ballet Circuit 1 begins with offering intentions and prayer. You’ll start the warmup with a sequence of leg exercises and wrap it up with an Intense Hamstring Stretch with a Revolved Angle Pose. The Circuit will take you through a dynamic and energizing workout. The workout begins with relevés, followed by plié on toes, planks while lifting the legs, pushup, clamshells, an Arabesque series, and then passés. You will repeat that circuit two more times picking up the speed. Not sure yet if you want to give it a try? You may want to think again! Regularly practicing this class will not only help improve your posture and strengthen the core, but it will also aid in weight loss, muscle definition, and increase your flexibility. You won’t need a tutu or ballet slippers but have a chair handy to act as your barre and a small ball or rolled-up towel.
Gregorian Chant by The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Looking for a full body workout that will challenge you physically, mentally, and spiritually? Live! from Home: Finding Balance will have you out of breath before you even finish the warm-up. The difficult postures and sequences in this 45-minute Level 2 class are designed to increase your strength, flexibility, and balance, but you can dial it down—or up—with simple modifications for your skill level. Get ready for dynamic exercises like lunges, squats with twists, planks, arabesque, airplane, standing linked back bend, and more that will leave you feeling longer and stronger. The Scriptures and meditations on the Trinity invite you to think about the relationship between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit in a brand new way.
Excerpt from Fr. Benedict O’Cinnsealaigh’s inspiration for the week for Our Lady of Victory Parish, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, OH, June 7, 2020
Music from Keys of Peace by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Get ready to fire up your shoulders and core in this challenging 45-minute workout that targets your shoulder stabilizers. As with all Level 2 classes, this workout is Intended to be difficult—but you can modify the poses to fit your skill level.You will begin Shoulder Stabilizer standing in good posture pose, taking deep inhales and calm, smooth, even exhales as you call to mind what you are most grateful for today. Warm up your shoulders, sides, and entire body with angel arms, side bends, standing forward fold, and pike pose. Transition to hands and knees to loosen up your spine before beginning a series of exercises to open up chest and stretch and strengthen your back and legs. Turn up the heat as you flow through Lunge 2, angle pose, airplane, revolved angle pose, pike, and elevated chest lift on toes, engaging all your muscles and challenging your balance. Work your core, shoulder stabilizers, and back with a variety of planks, push ups, twists, chest lifts, and back bends. You'll be ready for a break by the time you come to wide leg forward fold for the long hold and wind down with feel-good stretches. The Scriptures and meditations will help you reflect on our basic human need to give and invite you to reflect on a way to give of yourself to someone in need.
Excerpt from In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
Music from Keys of Peace by Francesca LaRosa (www.francescalarosa.com), The Nobertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (www.stmichaelsabbey.com)
Calm Strength is our very first Live From Home class. It is a wonderful combination of calm breathing,a steady warm up and wind down, and a strength-building workout. After gently warming up the body, Jill takes you through a series of Planks, Squats, Pikes with Elevated Chest Lift on toes, Side Planks, Lunge 2 and balance work.The Scriptures and meditations remind us that in times of distress, God is always there and you can place your trust in Him. When you expose your heart to God and learn to trust Him, peace fills your soul. This hour long class will leave you feeling calmer, stronger and ready to face your day.
Clare Schiller for Pietra Fitness
Led by the Spirit, Innocence, Wonderful Merciful Savior, O Come to the Altar, This is Amazing Grace, Shalom Peace be with You, Fierce, My Redeemer Lives, Journey, Chasing Butterflies, Angels with Us, Delicate Sentiment by SpiritFit Music (spiritfitmusic.com)Litany of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Christus, Gradual for Good Friday, The Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (stmichaelsabbey.com)
If you compare this workout to a song, plank-hover-chest lift-plank-pushup-pike would be the refrain. (It has a nice ring to it, doesn't it?) Even though this repeated flow engages all the muscles in your body, it will be a nice break from the unique twists and challenging sequences that make up the verses of this Level 2 class. You will begin Lent: Anthem lying on your back, focusing on your breath and all the blessings in your life. After working your core with the Pilates 100 and counterbalancing that strengthener with a few quick stretches, you will immediately get your heart pumping by rolling up to your feet, jumping back to plank, and flowing into that first refrain. Get ready for lunges (with twists), pike pose (with a twist), arabesque, and other tricky moves that will challenge your balance and work your entire body. The Scriptures and meditations invite you to contemplate the purpose of penance and to reflect on what you are offering up this Lent.
Based on In Conversation with God, Francis Fernandez (Scepter Press)
Open Eyes, Strength is Yours by Stanton Lanier, Dum Fabricator, The Norbertine Fathers of St. Michael's Abbey (stmichaelsabbey.com)