41, Owner & Trainer at Grit Group Fitness
FAV WAY TO WORKOUT: I love group fitness, specifically BodyAttack. There’s nothing like the energy of a group moving and grooving together to great music, challenging moves, and feeling accomplished at the end!
BIGGEST FITNESS MYTH: Group classes aren’t challenging enough OR they’re too complicated for beginners. I make everyone feel welcome in my classes, regardless of their fitness level.
BIGGEST NUTRITION MYTH: That you can’t build muscle without animal protein. I’ve been vegan for nearly 15 years, so lots of folks ask me where I get my protein. There are plenty of plant-based sources that are relatively inexpensive and versatile.
MY TYPICAL WORKOUT DAY: A great BodyAttack playlist, a fantastic group of friends in the class, and a sense of accomplishment…followed by a burrito.
MY ADVICE: Find something you love to do so you’ll keep doing it, but don’t be afraid to try something new!
MY FITNESS TIP:Focus on the long game, not the short-term gains.
IF I COULD ONLY HAVE ONE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT:My own body. My favorite workouts use little to no equipment — bodyweight exercises, cardio moves, and yoga.
ALWAYS IN MY GYM BAG: A growl towel. Go Grizz!
MY FITNESS INSPIRATION:The members in my classes. They show up, make connections, and see real changes when they find a consistent routine. We’ve laughed together, cried together, and grown together.
DREAM WORKOUT PARTNER:Paula Abdul. I’ve been trying to learn her dances since I was a little kid, so I’d love for her to teach them to me.
GO-TO SNACK: Bananas with peanut butter or air-fried chickpeas.
DIET PHILOSOPHY: Working out isn’t punishment for what you eat. Food is delicious and should make you feel good, not guilty.
WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED:My mental health is SO much better when I exercise. I know I’ll feel better when I get to move my body.
NEWBIE ADVICE: Stop waiting for the perfect time to start. The longer you wait, the harder it will be.
GOALS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD: I want to be able to keep teaching the classes I love for as long as I can. Incorporating strength, cardio, and stretching keeps my body moving and feeling great.
Photo by Tindall Stephens
