Stay-At-Home Mom

Family: Husband-Geoff, three sons (14, 12, 10)

Sport: Weightlifting and Pure Barre

A stressful job with long nights and late dinners led me to get a physical in my early 20s. I had put on some weight and discovered I had high cholesterol. I knew I was too young to have those health issues, so I joined a gym and got a trainer. I also joined the Memphis Runners Track Club and did 5Ks and even a half marathon.

I began to really enjoy running, so I started training for the Chicago Marathon and ran it in under four hours. I don’t run long distances anymore because of the strain on my joints and the time commitment, but I like incorporating sprints into my workouts. I have picked up a love for weight training, HIIT workouts, and isolated toning and core with Pure Barre.

A typical workout for me is a quick cardio warm-up, isolating muscle groups with weightlifting, and then more light cardio and stretching.

I reward myself with dark chocolate or a thin crust gourmet pizza. “Cheat” meals help keep me from overindulging.

The most underrated exercise is a basic squat

My favorite move is weighted walking lunges and deadlifts.

My advice to newbies is to set short-term goals that are attainable. Don’t compare yourself to anyone. Weightlifting shouldn’t be feared, and don’t look for instant gratification.

I was on strict bed rest in the hospital for two months during my third pregnancy. It was physically and emotionally challenging since I was not with my husband and two boys every day. The nurses and doctors were positive and supportive, and there was an outpouring of support from family, friends, and our church.

Being active before my pregnancies and during my other two pregnancies helped me overcome the muscle loss and weight gain from the third. My fit lifestyle mentally prepared me for the challenges of my last pregnancy. Thankfully, I gave birth to a healthy baby boy.

My beauty must-have is Obagi’s salicylic acid wipes. They are great when you’re on the go!

I always have almond butter packets for quick fuel in my gym bag.

People would be surprised to know that I can play the piano, violin, and clarinet. I’m teaching myself how to play the guitar.

 

Compiled by Hailey Thomas.

Photo by Tindall Stephens