Inside the Inspiring Fitness Journeys of Two Dynamic Instructors
March 6, 2024 • By PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT
From HIIT to Health Coaching, Coco-Chanel and Jessica Unique Share Their Paths to Empowerment
If you want to witness positive vibes, you’ve got to join Coco-Chanel and Jessica “Unique” Foyah for a fitness class. Trust us, their energy is contagious! We recently caught them front and center at PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT’s And Then We Rise workout with multi-award-winning performer, author, and activist Common, and their passion for movement was off the charts. As we scrolled through the pics from that day, we couldn’t help but feel inspired to learn more about these two.
Each month, we celebrate women who prioritize wellness through our Instagram photo contest. February 2024 brought us three inspiring finalists, but the clear winners were these HIIT The Beat instructors. Coco-Chanel is a social media director, coordinator, content writer and editor hailing from Virginia Beach and Jessica is a proud Louisville, KY native who makes a living as a health and wellness coach and consultant. In this exclusive interview, they share the why behind their infectious brand and their favorite health hacks, inspiring us all along the way.
Tell us how your winning photo came about.
It was truly organic. We were inspired and naturally just having a good time working out with all the ladies. The energy was felt!
Please briefly share your fitness journey with us.
Coco-Chanel: My fitness journey started young. With both parents in the military, there was PT (Physical Training) for homework, punishments, and bonding. I was an athlete throughout grade school. In college, I received my Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science and Associate in Science degree in Health in Physical education. This lead to my love of group fitness and group instruction in many corporate and franchise gym chains (i.e., Head trainer at Planet Fitness, Head Coach at OrangeTheory)
Jessica Unique: My fitness Journey started with overcoming a personal obstacle in my life. I needed to reinvent myself and develop a love for fitness and helping others through group fitness instruction and personal training.
We believe fitness + friendship = FUN! What is your favorite group fitness workout?
HIIT The Beat, a combo of Hip Hop Step and Charg’d Up!
While working out is essential, so is eating the right foods. What is your go-to pre-workout meal? How do you refuel after a workout?
We’re both fans of smoothies, “carbing” with simple foods and refueling with a protein-packed smoothie or a good salad with some grilled chicken.
What is one item that is always in your gym bag?
Our towels! Not only are they great for wiping up all that sweat, but we also love twirling those colorful lime green and yellow towels.
What are your top 3 fitness Instagram accounts to follow?
- PGS!
- Ebony Fit Weekend
- There are soooo many personal fitness accounts, we can’t even choose!
What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
People always find it surprising when we explain that HIIT The Beat blossomed from both of us getting FIRED on our day off from the gym we worked at. Lol!
What are the top three goals you hope to accomplish in life?
- Making sure we leave a meaningful impact on the individuals we encounter
- Performing at Essence Fest or a class with one of our favorite music artists
- Going on tour and having our gear sponsored by some really dope brands
What do the words PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT mean to you?
Encouraging physical activity and exercise among a sisterhood of women, regardless of their appearance, but emphasizing that every girl SHOULD feel pretty AND engage in activities that involve sweating, and challenge stereotypes about beauty and fitness.
Since PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT, what is your favorite deodorant?
Secret or NUUD (plant-based)
Coco-Chanel and Jessica Unique remind us that fitness isn’t just about the physical; it’s about building community, overcoming obstacles, and finding joy in movement. We encourage you to follow their journey on Instagram @HIIThebeat for more fitness inspiration because when it comes to fitness and life their favorite quote rings true, “You Did That!”
Want to be a finalist in our upcoming photo contest? Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to showcase your fitness journey! Follow us on Instagram @prettygirlssweat and tag us in your best fitness photos. We can’t wait to see your inspiring entries!
