Checking in with...Shape Up Chiropractic:

Kandace McMenomy is a clinical exercise specialist and fitness expert, who works with her clients in an environment where they are comfortable and are getting all the help they need to achieve their goals. McMenomy, 29, calls her practice at Shape Up Chiropractic in Newport Beach, where she and Dr. Steve Hutchins work, a one-stop shop to a healthy life.

What is it that you do?

I bring my clients to work out and train them here, where there’s only one or two people. What’s nice about it is that it’s so intimate and private. We have our own music, it’s our space, our time.

How did you get into the field of exercise and fitness?

I’ve always been into exercising and nutrition. Back when I was in college, my mom said, “You need to get a job.” So I went and talked to a trainer and he said, “Why don’t you train?” And I thought, “Well, yeah, I’ll do that.”

I became certified and started my business when I was in college. I went to school and I worked full time, not because I had to work full time, but because I absolutely loved it.

What is it that you love about personal training?

I love that people can come to me for help, and I can help them in any way they want. And for people to see the results and feel better about themselves at the end of my day — the self satisfaction that I get out of it makes my job worth it. I don’t really look at it as a job. I’m just passionate about it.

What makes your programs and routines different from other personal trainers at gyms?

I would say my ability to listen to what the clients needs from me, and for me to execute it for them in terms of what goals that they want to accomplish.

Tell me about this boot camp program you offer.

I have resistant bands, hula hoops, jump ropes and for an hour every Saturday morning we do cardio and strength training. The program is for six weeks.

What’s the cost for enrolling into the boot camp program?

It’s $10 per session. But they have to pay it upfront, so it’s $60 for the six weeks. Walk-ins cost $15 per session. It’s there for everybody to have fun, start the weekend off right and make new friends.

In your opinion, why should people exercise on regular basis?

To better their health, to live longer, to be able to be active without aches and pains. To have more energy, to have better sleeping habits. Exercise, I think, makes people feel better about themselves. It increases their self-esteem, their confidence goes up — they are just happier.

What advice do you have for people who are struggling with their weight or need to lose some weight?

Start with small changes, don’t overwhelm yourself. Something is better than nothing. Don’t start with five hours of cardio a week. Just go outside and walk 20 minutes, and maybe the next day you can do 30 and so you build up to that hour.

Shape Up Chiropractic

Address: 366 San Miguel Drive, Suite 206, Newport Beach

Call: (949) 706-9400

Online: www.shapeupchiropractic.com