CURE Q&A: AKT FOUNDER ANNA KAISER

What do Karlie Kloss’s legs, Shakira’s abs, and Sarah Jessica Parker’s biceps all have in common? They were all sculpted by fitness wunderkind and AKT founder, Anna Kaiser. If you haven’t yet joined the cult of AKT, it’s a dance-based workout that’ll have you sweating, boogieing, and coming back for more. Bonus: you can now find Cure at AKT Nomad and Upper East Side studios. Read on to find out where NYC’s queen of fitness finds her fitness inspiration and her absolute favorite song to dance to.

What's the very first thing you do when you wake up? 

I take a probiotic with a full glass of water.

What is your proudest physical accomplishment? 

Giving birth to my son, Brooks...and then launching my first athleisure line at Target 10 days later!

Your 3 favorite fitness Instagram accounts to follow? 

#wellness @madonna @aliciakeys @kellyripa

Something not a lot of people know about you? 

I grew up in Zurich, Switzerland. My father was Swiss.

What song always gets you going no matter how tired you are?

"Arrest the President" by Ice Cube.

Favorite dance song? 

“Lay Me Down” by Avicii.

What should people know about dance as a fitness method?

It’s fun and super effective, especially when you combine it with HIIT, which is how I design the workouts at AKT.

What is the importance of community in one's fitness regimen? 

A supportive environment will not only help you reach your goal, but it will also help you SURPASS it and continue to show up every day. Your workout buddies are excited to workout with you, and you look forward to being a part of that community! It helps drive the work and makes the workout feel like happy hour with your GFs.

Your mantra? 

True wellness leads to true happiness. Your health is an investment, not an expense. Invest in your food, your water, your workout, and the environment that you inhabit. (Investment meaning time, energy, attitude, not just monetary.)

What is a misconception about fitness that you most want people to be aware of?

That you have to work out hard for it to be effective. Or that a good workout will make up for bad eating and lifestyle choices. It should improve your life, but not act as a Band-Aid.

Why is hydration important to you (or in general)? 

More energy, more clarity — especially because I am so physically active and love a good sweaty workout. I need proper hydration for recovery and endurance!

Best advice you've received recently? 

Send the email, and then close your computer and move on. Don’t continue to stress about things that are out of your control. Refocus and move on to those things that feed you and will inspire those around you!