I just had one of the most memorable weekends of my life. Not in the usual way — but in the I-hiked-25 miles-and-physically-challenged-myself-like-never-before kind of way. It was an intense natural high and made me feel like there is nothing I can’t do. After this life-changing weekend, I realize it is actually probably true.
I spent three days at The Pinnacle Challenge, a fitness retreat that puts you through the workout of your life, while inspiring you to live a healthy lifestyle through exercise and diet. I’ve always thought about going to the Ashram in the Santa Monica Mountains, but giving up a week of my precious vacation time isn’t very appealing, nor is the concept of six almonds constituting a meal. The Pinnacle seemed like the perfect way to treat myself to a detoxifying experience to undo all the damage of weekends past (okay, maybe be not so realistic, but it was a good intention).
I arrived at the quaint, charming hotel housing The Pinnacle. A Palm Springs landmark, the place is tranquil and relaxing, with an awesome view of a mountain we would soon scale. After an amazing educational experience involving VO2 Metabolic testing, which taught me how to maximize the results of my physical activity, we met with The Pinnacle trainers to discuss our goals for the weekend. I was then advised to get to bed early, as what awaited me the next day would require lots of energy.
Friday morning, we woke up and did sunrise yoga, which is an unbelievable way to start your day. After an amazing breakfast, we headed to Indian Canyon, which boasts the largest stand of native fan palms in the United States, for a four-hour trek that culminated at a beautiful waterfall. Fortunately, the incredible Pinnacle trainers led us in small groups, so I never felt like I was holding anyone up. Trainer Meredith Miller was quite inspiring, as she ran most of the hike wearing a weighted vest. Yes, you read correctly, a weighted vest. That was nowhere in my cards, thank you very much, but it was very rewarding to simply finish the hike, since prior to this weekend, my longest was an hour long and more of a stroll. That’s the amazing thing about this program –anyone can attend-each aspect is tailored to people of all ages and fitness levels.
Next we came back and had lunch, which consisted of organic, vegetarian food. I have to admit I was a little worried about a meatless weekend, but was pleasantly surprised to find the food delicious and filling. Then it was off to water aerobics — and not a geriatric version by any means — followed by circuit training that actually felt like recess for adults. You almost forgot you were exercising. After this, it was time to reward yourself with a restorative massage that also prepares your muscles for the next day’s activities. The next two days were similar in format, but included other workout classes such as foam roller stretching, and a different hike. My favorite hike involved us taking a tram high into the San Jacinto Mountains, showing us firsthand the dichotomy of the desert — in a matter of minutes, we went from cacti and desert heat to a beautiful, snow-filled mountaintop. This was definitely the most challenging hike, but our trainers were there to help us get through it, and every single one of us made it to the peak.
What’s most amazing about this program is that it was developed and is run by three inspiring female trainers: Lisa Austin, Meredith Miller and Robin Sullivan. One of the male attendees on my hike admitted he was shocked at how much they challenged him — he thought the workouts were going to be “girly.” In fact, he said these savvy gals challenged him more than any male trainer had ever done.
In three days, this experience literally changed my life. I now know what my body is truly capable of, and that most physical limits are mental. I climbed mountains, burned mass calories, and learned how to work out smart and how to restore my body afterwards. I realized that yes, I can make it that extra mile — I just need to focus and put my mind to it. Best of all, these amazing women inspired me to challenge myself, get creative with my workouts and, as Meredith reminded me throughout the weekend, get out of my comfort zone!
For more information, visit www.thepinnaclechallenge.com, call Program Director Robin Sullivan at 310.546.5713 or email her at robinsullivan1@gmail.com. These ladies have offered our Savvy readers a 10 percent discount if you call and mention this article — this is a huge discount on a fabulous weekend you will never forget, so take advantage! Upcoming Pinnacle dates are May 15-18 and for the fall, September 18-21, October 2-5, and November 13-16.
Chaton Anderson is a Writer and the Publicity Director for TheSavvyGal.com. A product and pop culture addict, she is always looking for the coolest, hippest things on the market. Email her at chaton@thesavvygal.com with questions or leads on products and services on the cutting edge.