41, Trainer at Memphis Fitness Company

FAV WAY TO WORKOUT:

Group fitness classes — there’s nothing like feeding off the energy and support from the community and trainers together.

BIGGEST FITNESS MYTH:

Women should train differently from men. The fundamental principles of muscle physiology apply to both men and women. Training adjustments should be made for the individual based on overall goals and fitness levels.

BIGGEST NUTRITION MYTH:

You can out–train a bad diet. Both exercise and nutrition are key components of a healthy lifestyle, but exercise cannot fully compensate for poor nutrition. Diet is the key driver of weight and body composition, accounting for almost 70% overall. Quality nutrition fuels your body for peak performance.

MY TYPICAL WORKOUT DAY:

A great upper body strength session followed by chasing my toddler around the park!

MY ADVICE:

Focus on habits and not quick results. As James Clear states in Atomic Habits, “Success is the product of daily habits — not once–in–a–lifetime transformations. When you fall in love with the process rather than the product, you don’t have to wait to give yourself permission to be happy.”

MY FITNESS TIP:

Focus on consistency and not intensity. True transformation comes from consistent, small changes.

IF I COULD ONLY HAVE ONE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT:

A set of dumbbells. They are the most versatile for training, and the options are endless.

MY FITNESS INSPIRATION:

My clients. Their determination and dedication to pushing past their limits and achieving their goals remind me every day why I love what I do and inspire me to be a better coach.

GO-TO SNACK:

A good protein bar and a banana.

DIET PHILOSOPHY:

Finding true balance that supports long–term sustainability. Mostly whole foods to fuel my body to train strong while allowing flexibility to enjoy life.

WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED:

Relying on discipline and habits over motivation. Motivation is fleeting, but discipline is consistent — the show–up–anyway mentality.

NEWBIE ADVICE:

Comparison is the thief of progress. Don’t compare your day one to someone else’s day 100.

GOALS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD:

My long–term fitness goals are training for life and longevity to be able to keep up with my toddler as he grows. The short–term goal is to complete HYROX Houston in a few weeks. Both include a healthy balance of strength training, cardio, and endurance.

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