45, Trainer at Life Time 

FAV WAY TO WORKOUT: 

This is tough, but I try to balance barbells, running, and yoga. Part of why I enjoy my job is because I can help my clients find the balance, the sweet spot between feeling confident and strong yet rested and present. 

BIGGEST FITNESS MYTH: 

Cardio burns more calories. People shy away from strength training, but targeted weight training sessions are key to boosting the body’s metabolic activity. 

BIGGEST NUTRITION MYTH: 

You have to eliminate the foods you love in order to lose weight or get leaner. 

IF I COULD ONLY HAVE ONE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT: 

TRX straps. They are easy to travel with and can be attached almost anywhere. 

ALWAYS IN MY GYM BAG: 

A trigger point/myofascial release ball. 

MY FITNESS IDOL: 

The person who’s influenced me the most is Mary Sudduth. Before graduating from high school, she started to mentor me and saw more in me than I would have ever seen in myself. Because of her, I learned the value of reaching people, not just teaching people. 

MY GO-TO SNACK: 

Banana and almond butter, Greek yogurt and whey protein, or cottage cheese and blueberries. I choose snacks based on what I need to fill the voids in my daily macros. 

ONE FOOD I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT: 

Since the Ninja Creami was created, I’ve fallen in love with banana sorbet. It’s literally frozen bananas but whipped like ice cream and is so good! 

GOALS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD: 

I am always working on being the best version of myself, but I raise a teenage daughter, and I want her to see that it is possible to be strong, healthy, and confident as she learns how to eat to fuel her body and exercise in a way that she enjoys. 

SETBACKS: 

We could all say that the coronavirus has impacted us in some way. Because of the disruption in 2020, I was forced down a different path that led me to where I am now. If that hadn’t happened, I wouldn’t be doing the workouts I’m currently doing, wouldn’t have the clients or classes I have now, and wouldn’t know all of the people I’ve met since coming to Life Time. However, I’ve become stronger in many ways — physically, mentally, and spiritually, too. 

FITNESS TIP: 

Enjoy the journey. It takes time. Everything is a progression, and the most sustainable results don’t come fast. 

MY BEST ADVICE: 

You are human – be human. Shailene Flanagan, Olympic medalist and NYC Marathon champion, once said to prepare 100% and then show up and go with the flow. You never know what life will throw at you, with busy schedules, illness, family, etc. So, show up as much as you can and prepare, so that when things come up, it won’t completely derail your progress. 

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. 

Photo by Tindall Stephens