Welcome to Waking Up Well, a column where we hand-select people we admire and ask them to share how they start the day. We think morning routines are a crucial part of an intentional wellness journey and we’re fascinated by the practices of our favorite figures.

If you’re initiated into the Peloton universe, you’ll immediately recognize Jess King — and your heart might even skip a beat remembering one of her particularly challenging Sweat Steady classes. She’s a powerhouse instructor and her background in dance means she’s a talented performer, too. (If you watched season four of “So You Think You Can Dance,” you already know!) Her inspirational messages during Peloton classes have the power to get you through the tough moments to the glory that lies on the other side. But what’s inspiring about Jess doesn’t stop at the messages she offers during class, it’s also her lust for life — and a burgeoning DJ career and status as a beacon of queer representation to boot! Her newest project, “On the Record,” will give an intimate glimpse into Jess’s journey through motherhood, music, and movement, and feature content from other experts with the goal of enriching underrepresented groups like Latinx, LGBTQ+, and women in wellness.

After becoming a mom of two with her wife, musician Sophia Urista, sticking to a morning routine isn’t always easy. Since having Luz and Íza, Jess’s mornings can change in a moment, but she tries to make the most of the time she has with them before the day gets hectic (which is almost always guaranteed!). Even though her routine doesn’t always look the same, there are a few non-negotiables. Journaling is one of them. So is music. Whether it’s Rufus du Sol, Sofi Tukker, or something from the classical world, the energy music brings really sets the tone and kicks off the day with a positive vibe. And, last but not least, working out. She maintains a strict boundary around making sure it is a part of her daily routine since it’s the best way to clear the mind and boost mental clarity, get energized, and fuel the spirit. 

Here’s Jess’s ideal routine to start the day feeling grounded, present, and ready to face the world with purpose.

6:00am | Wake up & stretch ☀️

My kids are my alarm clock, so I’m lucky if I start at 6 a.m., but it could be earlier. I wake up, check on Luz and Íza, and ease into the day. The mornings are one of the rare times when everything feels a bit quieter (or at least one can only hope). This is when I get to enjoy those early, sleepy moments with my kids before the pace picks up. I like to take a few minutes to stretch, move around, and get my body feeling good. I’ll even squeeze in a morning workout if I’m lucky, but usually hold on to this for later in the day.

6:30am | Hydration & tunes 🚰 

Hydration is key. I drink a glass of water with electrolytes and take my daily aminos and supplements. Breakfast is next — usually something protein-packed, like eggs or a smoothie. While I’m making my own breakfast, my wife, Sophia, and I cook for the kids, but we’ve accepted that most of it ends up on the floor! There’s always music playing — whether it’s house tracks (lately a lot of Rampa and Adam Port) or classical, something upbeat always gets the energy flowing. Music really helps me get in the right headspace for the day.

7:15 AM | Skincare refresh  🛁

After breakfast, I move into my skincare and shower routine. It’s a moment to focus on myself before the day gets too busy. I use products that moisturize and nourish my skin and never skip SPF — it’s a must every single day, rain or shine. This time also helps me transition from family mode into work mode.

8:00am | Journaling 🖋️

 Once I’m feeling refreshed, I sit down to plan out my day and journal. This is one of the most important parts of my morning. Journaling helps me clear my mind and set intentions for the day. I’ve been working on my new platform, “On the Record,” which is launching in the fall, and a lot of the inspiration comes directly from my journal. The platform will share my perspectives as a queer Latina female athlete and also give other underrepresented voices a space to be heard.

8:30am | Curating playlists 🎶

I spend some time curating my playlists and mentally preparing for my Peloton classes. Music is such an important part of my teaching style, so I love dedicating time to make sure I’ve got the right tracks lined up for my rides. It helps me tap into the energy I want to bring to the studio.

9:30am | Heading to the Peloton studio 🚴

I’m usually out the door and on my way to the Peloton studio for my first class of the day. My schedule can vary, so while this routine doesn’t always stay the same, these morning rituals — especially my time with Luz and Íza, journaling, and music — help me stay grounded and energized no matter what comes next.

Thanks to Jess King for providing imagery for this piece.