22, Instructor at Basecamp Fitness
FAV WAY TO WORKOUT:
Interval training. I get bored working out sometimes, so fast-paced workouts with lots of switches are my favorite.
BIGGEST FITNESS MYTH:
The longer you work out, the more effective it is, or a workout should be at least 60 minutes to be effective. Overusing your muscle and overworking your body can seriously slow down and restrict your result.
BIGGEST NUTRITION MYTH:
Losing weight is linear. Our weight fluctuates so much. I’m a big advocate that you should measure weight loss by how you feel and how your clothes fit.
MY TYPICAL WORKOUT DAY:
It’s usually just a Basecamp class during the day and then 10-15 minutes of core before I go to bed.
MY FITNESS ADVICE:
My biggest advice is that working out is the reward. It’s such a privilege to move our bodies the way we do, and that should be celebrated. Working out isn’t a punishment for something you ate or drank. We don’t have to work out; we get to work out.
MY FITNESS TIP:
Just go for it! The worst and scariest part is getting started. Once you find a gym home, it makes it so much easier to keep showing up.
IF I COULD ONLY HAVE ONE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT:
A resistance band. I bring them with me on all my trips because they’re light and can be used to work every muscle.
ALWAYS IN MY GYM BAG:
Celsius
MY FITNESS IDOL:
I don’t have a fitness idol, but I like Whitney Simmons. She’s an influencer but shows working out is meant to be fun and doesn’t have to be taken so seriously. She also talks about how rest is important, and I couldn’t agree more.
MY GO-TO SNACK:
An OWYN protein shake. I like the cold brew one. And I love cotton candy, too.
MY DIET:
I eat gluten-free because I have a gluten intolerance. But I don’t restrict myself other than ensuring I have the protein my body needs daily.
ONE FOOD I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT:
Cheese. As silly as it sounds, it does make all food better.
WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED:
My motivation is learning that 1% better is still better. Sometimes not seeing the results right away can be frustrating, but it is a marathon, not a sprint.
SETBACKS:
As a woman in the fitness industry, I’ve had to overcome many self-confidence and body image issues. Learning that being healthy doesn’t always mean being skinny and that being strong is cool. I feel like this has made me a better coach and person. Learning that the gym is for everybody has helped me realize all my body is capable of.
GOALS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD:
I want to decrease my half-marathon time. I’ve never been the best distance runner, but I love running! I ran my first half marathon last year, and it was brutal but so worth it!
Are you a fitness trainer, workout instructor, or influencer in the industry and would love to share your knowledge with our readers? Send a brief bio and picture to: Amy@memphishealthandfitness.com.
