All of my life, I have been active and eaten well.
I grew up on a dairy farm in southern Michigan, the foundation for the healthy lifestyle I now enjoy. The eldest of three girls, there was no gender discrimination when it came to chores. I was expected to do my share of the physical labor every day. I learned the value of being physically fit and disciplined.
As well, I learned how to prepare and enjoy whole, minimally-processed foods, many grown and harvested by my mother. I also developed a palate for clean food and baked goods made from scratch.
I began lifting weights at a ladies gym right out of college while doing an internship in Denver, CO. I loved being strong. My heart raced at the thought of being able to lift a big stack of weights or a heavy dumbbell. I became a "gym rat" then and there.
I faithfully read magazines like Muscle and Fitness cover-to-cover to discover all I could about exercises and training, and became a food label expert. My infatuation with fitness gear also developed early. I cannot fathom how many leggings, capris, sports bras and tops I've tried on over the years to find physique-flattering outfits that also do their job in the gym.
Outside a few months here and there, when I changed jobs or moved, I have faithfully trained with weights for the past 30-plus years. I now train in greater Columbus, OH.
Physique competitions, first in bodybuilding and then in figure and bikini, were an outgrowth of my years in the gym. The discipline that brought me to the gym every day brought me success on stage as well. I learned how to bring up lagging body parts to improve my physique, lose body fat to look more conditioned and present my best physique when standing in the spotlight.
An expensive hobby, I also learned how to do much of the work on my own. Today, I bling my own posing suits, apply my own tan, do my own hair and make-up and travel to venues largely by myself to reduce overall costs of competing.
I became certified as a personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and a nutrition coach to help others become healthier. I developed a line of fitness products to help them celebrate achievements, stay on the path of fitness and motivate their peers on the journey.
I can help you on your fitness journey as well. To get a quote for personal training, nutritional consulting or fitness competition services, click on the button above and complete the form. I'll get back to you with a quote that is tailored to your needs.
