Smarty Mom: Sandy Sklar

Our Smarty Mom of the week is strong. Both physically and mentally. She is a business woman, a competitor, and a friend. Sandy Sklar is a champion of a mom. She is a leader in the fitness community and a true inspiration for women who believe their bodies are forever changed by having children.

Sandy is a Charlotte native who balances work and life with ease. She is a personal inspiration and someone I was so excited to learn more about! Charlotte, meet the lovely and talented Sandy!

Smarty Mom Stats:

Mom to: Mason Sklar (10 months) Step Children: Jake, 9, Ryan, 10, Harrison,12
Married to: Paul Sklar
Years lived in Charlotte: Born and Raised!!!

When do you start taking interest in fitness?

Fitness has always been a part of my life. Growing up, my parents had me involved in activities ranging from gymnastics to Tae Kwon Do. I played soccer and tennis and invested in my first gym membership (with my parents consent) at the age of 16.

How do you balance a hectic work and personal schedule and still find time to make nutrition a priority?

It is hard work. I have to always plan ahead! Preparing meals and snacks in advance. Food is a huge part of the fitness equation and it is my fuel to keep up with the boys!

What is your advice to mothers who aren’t “bouncing back” after having children?

Having children is definitely life changing…not only is it a change in body composition, but change in one’s lifestyle. I find that most women have trouble making time for nutrition and exercise, because they have a hard time balancing their fitness and family time. My advice is for mothers to make some time for themselves. Find your balance!

What is your LEAST favorite exercise?

Burpees!

How did your body change when you were pregnant?

Well, I definitely had some physical changes. There was no denying that belly was there! My body was preparing for a 9 pound baby!

What are some of your favorite healthy snacks??

I LOVE Greek yogurt (how ironic, I’m Greek). It is one of my favorite snacks! When preparing snacks for the day, I always follow the same rule of thumb: paring a carb with a protein.

What is your favorite food to “splurge” on!?

Pizza

What is the most important lesson you have learned since becoming a mommy?

Be prepared and plan ahead. Even when I do make the effort to plan, I’m not guaranteed that everything will go as it should!

SUV or mini-van?

Nothing against mini-vans, but I am all about an SUV. They just look tough, like me!

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

I see myself and my family being healthy, active and enjoying life!

What is your favorite kid-friendly restaurant?

The kids really enjoy Big View Diner. Good food, friendly staff, and they even have a kids night on Wednesdays. The spaghetti tacos rock!

What are your favorite activities to do with your son and step-sons?

They would say video games, but Paul and I enjoy all activities outdoors!

What is your favorite “girls night out” spot?

Hmmmm….girls night….I haven’t had much time for that lately, but if I did it would probably be a relaxing early dinner near home.

Name three simple exercises that produce big results?

Pull ups, push ups, and jump lunges!

What is it like working with your husband?!

It’s great! We see each other, but don’t interact much at work. I work with my clients while he works with his. So, at the end of the day, we get to come home and talk about our day.

Favorite thing about being a mother?

Everything! Tough question to answer, because it is such a rewarding title.

Could not live without my…

Family, Workout, iPhone and Chapstick.