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At IIN, we are proud to partner with leaders who inspire an intentional, balanced approach to health and wellness, and Ally Love is no exception. As a Peloton instructor, wellness entrepreneur, IIN graduate, and Contigo’s Chief Hydration Officer, Ally Love brings passion and purpose to everything she does.
In this Q&A, Ally shares her wellness philosophy – on everything from morning routines to staying hydrated and nourished to finding (or returning to) an exercise regimen that works for you – with practical tips for living a healthier, happier life.
IIN: We know you’re a morning person! Can you tell us a little bit about your morning routine and how you set yourself up for success for the rest of the day?
Ally Love: When I wake up, I dedicate the first few moments to meditation, which has been a priority for me during Boss October. Although it's been a challenge, I've found that it truly cultivates a sense of peace that prepares me for the day ahead. After that, I enjoy a comforting cup of tea and make sure to eat a nourishing breakfast. I also take all my prescribed vitamins from my nutritionist, which I find really helps me feel balanced and energized.
To round out my routine, I spend some time stretching. Since my days tend to be quite packed, moving my body and grounding myself through these practices are essential for maintaining both physical and mental well-being. This combination of mindfulness, nourishment, and gentle movement sets a positive tone for my entire day!
IIN: We know that hydration is very important to you. Staying hydrated sounds simple, but so many people struggle to stay hydrated throughout the day. What are two simple things that people can do to stay hydrated throughout the day?
Ally Love: Carry a water bottle everywhere! Keeping a water bottle with you is a game-changer. It serves as a constant reminder to drink throughout the day. Whether you're at your desk, running errands, or working out, having that bottle in sight encourages you to take sips regularly. I use my Contigo product line for everything and anything!
Make it fun! Hydration doesn’t have to be boring! Experiment with different beverages that you enjoy, like flavored water or electrolyte drinks. I love incorporating options like herbal tea, matcha, or infused water with fruits and herbs. This variety keeps things interesting and motivates you to drink more.
IIN: You’ve talked about how important meditation is to you. What kind of meditations do you practice regularly, and is there one that you find particularly useful and effective?
Ally Love: I regularly use an app that guides me through meditation, which has been incredibly helpful. I find a quiet space or pop in my headphones, and I try to meditate first thing in the morning to ground myself for the day ahead. Even just five minutes can make a big difference! I recommend starting small; that brief moment of peace can be surprisingly effective.
One app I particularly enjoy is Hallow, which prompts me with thoughtful questions and encourages self-reflection. It helps me engage with my thoughts and feelings in a meaningful way.
IIN: Can you describe your daily eating habits? What are your go-to breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals to stay energized, focused, and strong throughout the day?
Ally Love:
Breakfast: I love a nourishing bowl of oatmeal, with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and a generous sprinkle of granola. It’s the perfect balance of fiber, protein, and healthy fats to fuel my day. I also love hard-boiled eggs with creamy avocado for healthy fats, and a squeeze of lemon.
Snacks: Before lunch, I always need a little something to keep my energy up. Perfect Bars and Macro Bars are my go-to for a quick, protein-packed snack. I also love fresh fruit—it’s light, refreshing
Lunch: I’m all about a Chipotle bowl—if you’re not loading it up with all the toppings, what are you even doing? I love packing mine with protein, beans, veggies, and a little bit of spice. I’m also a huge fan of salads, especially when they have a solid protein source and lots of hearty vegetables.
Dinner: One of my favorites is when my husband Andrew cooks his famous steaks! Paired with rice pilaf too! On a regular night, though, I’m all about curry—whether it’s a chicken, fish, or channa (chickpea curry). I love serving it with naan bread, white rice, or sometimes potatoes.
IIN: For those who have stopped exercising consistently because they’re too busy, too overwhelmed, too discouraged, or who never really started exercising consistently, what piece of advice would you give to get back on track? What is the smartest, most efficient way to get back into a training regimen?
Ally Love: Just start—really! The first step is often the hardest, but it can be as simple as laying out your exercise equipment or taking a 10-minute walk. Remember, something is always better than nothing. It’s important to focus on creating a space that excites you and motivates you to move.
Set achievable goals and celebrate those small wins, as they build your confidence over time. You’ll gradually become more comfortable with the routine. And don’t forget to make it enjoyable! Choose activities that you genuinely like; this will make it easier to stay committed. Consistency is key, so find what works for you and keep it fun!
IIN: Circling back to hydration, tell us about your collaboration with Contigo. Why did you decide to partner with them, and what is it about the product that sets them apart?
Ally Love: I’ve partnered with Contigo because their brand perfectly aligns with my mission to promote hydration as a key component of everyone’s wellness journey. They’re an inclusive brand that shares my passion and excitement for hydration.
What sets Contigo apart is how their products are both functional and stylish. Their innovative designs make it easy to stay hydrated throughout the day, whether you’re at home, at the gym, or on the go. And also, their commitment to quality and sustainability resonates with me as well, making them a perfect partner in promoting healthy habits. Plus, they offer a variety of options, so there’s something for everyone, no matter their lifestyle. Hydration is for everyone!
IIN: What prompted your decision to enroll in the Health Coach Training Program, and how do you think the program elevated your life and your career?
Ally Love: I decided to enroll in the Health Coach Training Program because I wanted to challenge myself and deepen my understanding of health and wellness. I’ve always been passionate about learning, and this program allowed me to dive into a field that truly interests me. It’s been transformative—not only has it enhanced my knowledge about my own body, but it’s also equipped me to help others discover valuable insights about their health.
Coaching on the bike has always been a joy for me, but having the opportunity to engage in health-centered conversations off the bike is incredibly important. I love connecting with others on their wellness journeys and supporting them in achieving their goals. This program has empowered me to do just that, fueling my curiosity and passion for continuous learning along the way!
Take your passion for wellness to the next level. Download our free Health Coaching Guide and discover everything you need to know about health coaching and the benefits of becoming a Health Coach.