In this series “Get to Know Your XPRO,” XPRO’s for Xponential+ share more about themselves and their fitness knowledge. Working out is always more fun when you know your instructor on a deeper level, so check out what Mille Hanson of Pure Barre had to say below.
Tell us about your health and fitness certifications and degrees.
I have my Pure Barre certification and have a BFA in Dance from University of Arizona's School of Dance.
How long have you been teaching?
I have been teaching for five years and counting! I’ve been loving every minute of it.
Why did you start teaching fitness?
I started teaching fitness because I wanted to share my own passion for fitness and living a healthful lifestyle to those who are looking, trying or already are doing the same.
What is your favorite workout to do on your own time and why?
Aside from taking Pure Barre classes while not teaching, I enjoy HIIT workouts! I'll often do EMOM (every minute on the minute) with medium and heavy weights and resistance bands.
What is your favorite piece of workout equipment?
My all-time favorite piece of workout equipment is hand weights. They are definitely overlooked.
What is your favorite exercise to do at the gym?
At the gym I love doing planks! There are so many ways to make them challenging and fun. You can add in equipment or surfaces to elevate your upper and lower body.
What are 5 essential items you keep in your gym bag?
The most important item in my gym bag is of course my giant water bottle. I also keep a hand/sweat towel, Bala strap weights, AirPods and protein bar for a post-workout snack.
What are your favorite pieces of workout clothing?
My favorite Pure Barre outfit is a form-fitting crop top, leggings and of course sticky socks. For HIIT/gym workouts I like to wear biker shorts and a sports bra and/or tank top. I'm also one of those crazy people that works out in a long-sleeve until I'm dripping sweat... Some brands that make me feel and look my best are FP Movement, All Access, Beyond Yoga, Lululemon and Splits59.
What is your go-to breakfast to start the day off on the right foot?
I like to start off my mornings with a bowl of oatmeal with almond butter, banana, blackberries, flaxseed, chia seeds, honey and cinnamon added into it.
What is your favorite place to go on a run or walk?
Toluca Lake in Los Angeles!
What are a few of your favorite songs to work out to?
My favorite workout songs to workout to are "'Rain on Me" by Lady Gaga, "Work Out" by J. Cole, and literally anything by Drake.
If you weren't a fitness professional, what would your dream job be?
If I wasn’t in the fitness industry, then my dream job would be an esthetician.
What are your top 3 tips to stay motivated with fitness?
- A workout will ALWAYS make you feel better physically and mentally.
- Small steps lead to big change.
- Fuel your body with nutrient-dense food to help you feel energized and crush your workouts!
Now that you know Millie a little better, check out her Pure Barre classes on the Xponential+ app. You can learn more about the entire XPRO team here.
