As much as “Sweat It Out” is about the fitness inspirations behind the people we feature it is even more so about the music. When I think about someone who knows good music, I instantly think of Amanda Muhammad. If you follow her on Instagram she will regularly hit you with an epic song - you know, one that you haven’t heard in ages but as soon as you are reminded of it you immediately head over to Spotify to relive exactly where you were, who you were with, and what happened the first time you heard that beat drop. Nostalgia is both a gift and a curse.

Aside from her musical ear, Amanda has the power to make you think like, really think. Through her words she helps you to understand that your mind is probably the area you need to be exercising the most. It really does have the power to change your day, or better yet, your life. Her systematic approach to achieving mindfulness through thoughts, breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, stress management, and overall self care is something we can all use a little dose of. So, let’s get acquainted with Amanda Muhammad, shall we?

Name

Amanda S. Muhammad

Age

27

Hometown

Dallas, TX by way of Overland Park, KS

What is your favorite way to sweat and what made you fall in love with it?

Dance! Most people don't know that I danced tap & jazz for 16 years. I always loved making beats with my feet and expressing myself through movement.

How long have you been dedicated to living a #HEALTHYLIVINGLIFESTYLE and what exactly helped you decide to make that change?

I've always been an athlete. I played basketball, tennis, dance, track, karate - you name it. Our family business is also a Karate school, so being active has always been a part of my life. I would say that in the last year, especially, I truly understood the importance of making it a habit, though. Juggling a full time job plus 6 gigs throughout the week is exhausting. My diet, energy, mindset, and a lot of prayer are the only way I can make it through.

What is your absolute favorite workout gear brand and why?

Champion and Nike have both been very dependable sports bras for me. I also love 90 Degrees by Reflex for yoga/workout pants because they stay up over my waist throughout my classes, they aren't see through, and they have an amazing fit.

What is your absolute favorite workout shoe and why?

Nike is honestly all I've ever worn! They get the job done.

What motivates you to keep going on days that you don’t want to workout and or eat right?

It's the same as anything else I want in life.. I'm the only one who can go get it. Also, there's a huge difference in my energy and optimism when I've been working out and eating healthier. I prefer to dwell in that space.

What is the motto that you live by?

This could be a saying or quote. "Your body is a temple on loan from God, no need to return it early" - Aunt Nevada

If you could give advice to anyone who is struggling to transition to a healthy living, lifestyle, what would you say?

I believe in speaking from what I know and personal experience so I would share with them the difference in my entire being from when I am intentional about my healthy lifestyle and when I'm slacking. When I take care of myself it's easier to connect with God and love who I am. I'm not so hard on myself and it makes me easier to be around. I'm more clear about what my goals are and what I need to do to actively manifest them. I can really show up.

How did you come up with your playlist name?

"Hipster Squirrel" - Spin on "Hipster Girl" one of my favorite songs by Sango & SPZRKT - I have a tendency to replace the word girl with squirrel. Badu does it too. We stand united on this.

What 10 songs are you rocking out to ?

* not listed Beyonce-Grown Woman ( Spotify does not want us to be great)*

What are your social media handles?

"Sweat It Out" with Amanda Muhammad of Mako Mindfulness