A. J. Johnson gave us insight on HBCU life in the film School Daze, showed us how to hit the dance floor in House Party and captivated audiences with her performance in Baby Boy.
Currently the owner of The AJ Zone, Johnson seeks to inspire individuals to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Johnson recently sat down with rolling out magazine to discuss her approach to fitness –amir shaw
How did you become involved with fitness and health?
I lost my mom when I was a freshmen at Spelman and, years later, my father. It took me a while to understand and survive their deaths. So this lifestyle took over me. I would bring protein shakes on movie sets and run miles at lunchtime as opposed to taking naps. My hair, skin and weight changed. I went into health and nutritional management. I’m now certified in mental counseling, sports nutrition and training. That’s where all the healthy living components come into what you get with The AJ Zone.
How can people start living a healthier lifestyle?
My philosophy is that everybody’s body is unique. There are certain things that all of us can do. We must embrace the importance of water and constant movement. Michelle Obama is pushing the “Let’s Move!” program. All you have to do is move. You can dance, or go walking. I’ll hit the club and burn 500 calories. As African Americans, the numbers are showing that obesity and disease are epidemics for us, [but] we can change it. You don’t have to have symptoms of a stroke and heart attack at age 25.
What foods do you eat to stay healthy?
I don’t eat chemically processed food and sugars. I don’t cook with any fat. I also don’t eat red meat. It’s such a heavy protein and it takes [a] long [time] to digest. So I eat chicken and fish, which is easier for your body to process. The easier that happens, the healthier you are. I haven’t used a microwave in 10 years. I’m not feeling the radiation thing in my food. I make oatmeal and popcorn on the stove. I travel a lot, so I try to keep track of what I eat.
What can people expect when they sign up for The AJ Zone?
We sell custom menus. You tell us your lifestyle and we customize a low-fat menu to help you get healthy. Weight loss is a science, so we do programs for that. I believe people can transform in 12 weeks. It takes about 12 weeks to see weight loss and skin and hair adjustments. Your mind has to keep up with your body, spirit and lifestyle.
For more info, visit www.theajzone.com and follow A.J. Johnson on Twitter @THEAJZONE
