This Mother’s Day, we’re shining a light on the unstoppable force of fit moms — women who prove that strength, dedication, and self-care are powerful tools for leading by example. Our “Fit Moms” feature celebrates mothers who prioritize their health not just for themselves, but their families and communities. They rise early, push through challenges, and show up every day with grit and grace. By making wellness a part of their lifestyle, they inspire those around them to do the same. These women don’t just juggle it all — they thrive, reminding us that the strongest foundation we can give our families starts with taking care of ourselves.

Amber Craddick, 31: The Everyday Energizer
Movement is her medicine, and her motivation is rooted in motherhood.

“WHEN YOU FEEL GOOD, YOU CAN BE A BETTER PARENT!”

FAMILY MATTERS: I have a 10-year-old daughter, Ainsley. My husband, Scott, and I have been married for almost two years, but he’s been a part of her life for six. He’s an amazing and supportive stepdad, and we’ve built such a solid little team.

AN EVOLVING WORKOUT ROUTINE: My fitness routine has changed throughout the years, but now that I am working remotely, I’ve been working out at a couple of local gyms near home, where I also occasionally teach classes. I enjoy getting workouts in at The Yard as it provides a full-facility gym, group fitness class, and additional amenities like saunas. I also enjoy taking classes at LiveFit, which offers a variety of class styles.

LEADING BY EXAMPLE: I was determined to feel more myself again after having my daughter. Growing up being active, you’re fixated on the physical aspect of fitness. Now, as a mom in my 30s, it’s about feeling my best physically and mentally. I move my body to feel good and stay active for my daughter. Once I started working out as a new mom, it felt so good and empowering that I wanted to help others reach their fitness goals. Now that my daughter is a bit older, I want to set a good example for her. She is now in cheerleading and realizes how important it is to build strength and stamina.

FINDING THE TIME AND THE CHILDCARE: My biggest challenges are time and childcare. When my daughter was younger, I looked for gyms with childcare. Now that she’s older, my husband and I will plan our workouts around each other at the gym, or I will work out at home with the equipment we have. Planning out when I can get my workout in that day ahead of time is always key, and some days, it may just be walking the dogs together. Wherever it fits into my day is when I am determined to get it done, even if it’s just 20 or 30 minutes. Movement is medicine, and when you feel good, you can be a better parent!

STAYING FIT WITH THE FAM: Although my daughter doesn’t join us at the gym, she sees my husband and I anytime we are working out from home. She sees that we choose to prioritize our fitness and health, so she understands the importance of regular movement and eating healthy. Since she was young, she has been involved in sports and has played soccer for years. This was her first year cheerleading, so she always does handstands and flips around the house or jumps on her trampoline. I am glad she likes to stay active and hope I can set a good example for her.

REWRITING THE STORY WITH WELLNESS: Heart problems and other health issues run in my family, so any steps I can take to potentially prevent this for myself and my daughter I’m willing to do it. My goal is to maintain an active lifestyle to be my best self and hopefully provide longevity to my life to watch my daughter grow up!

By Zoe Harrison
Photo by Tindall Stephens