Memphis Health+Fitness Magazine February 2026

At Regional One Health Cancer Care, the same physicians who help establish national standards for treatment and innovation also provide personalized treatment directly to patients. Our expert medical and surgical oncologists can deliver the comprehensive care Mid-South patients need to live full, healthy lives.

Dr. Muhammad Hamid, Dr. Swapna Thota and Dr. Noura Elsedawy are part of an exceptional team of hematologists. Ask your primary care provider for a referral to access elite cancer expertise right here in Memphis.

THE INDUSTRY’S BEST RECOVERY TECHNOLOGY POWERED BY MIDSOUTH’S BEST ORTHOPAEDIC EXPERTS.

Don’t let an injury sideline you. Work with the specialists from Accel + Campbell Clinic to design a recovery plan based on your goals.

• State-of-the-art facility with fitness and recovery technology

• Personalized plans backed by Campbell Clinic medical team

• Detailed movement assessments to check your progress

• One-on-one support from licensed physical therapists and performance coaches

• Flexible, cash-based physical therapy—no referral needed

• Return to Play program to help prevent re-injury

• Proven results to help you move better, recover smarter, and live stronger

YOU WON’T FIND AN EXPERIENCE LIKE THIS ANYWHERE

to Request a Tour and

Contact Lens Success Begins with the Right Fit

ADVENTURE IS CALLING.

The BMW X3 offers thrilling acceleration and ample power reserves, making it the ideal travel companion. And once you arrive at your destination, the next adventure will be waiting just around the corner.

Contact a Client Advisor at Roadshow BMW to schedule a test drive today. BMW. The Ultimate Driving Machine.®

Roadshow BMW

405 N. Germantown Parkway  Memphis Cordova, TN 38018 901-365-2584 www.ROADSHOWBMW.com

Amy Goode | Publisher

For three decades, Amy has grown and connected the Memphis wellness community. A lifelong amateur athlete and marathoner, her work bridges media and marketing to spotlight the experts and brands inspiring healthier living. When not publishing, Amy is usually in a hot Pilates class or scouting the latest fitness trends shaping the future of wellness.

Angelique Nihen | Editor

Angelique is an editor, writer, graphic designer, and advertising/marketing professional. A long-time SAG-AFTRA member, she also works and performs professionally as an actress, singer, and dancer. A Temple University graduate, she enjoys swimming, biking, painting, sewing, reading, and traveling.

Tindall Stephens | Photographer

Tindall has been shooting for over 20 years, specializing in weddings and portraiture. She is a super busy mom of three teenagers,wife of a Memphis firefighter/Paramedic, and entertainer of two boston terriers …among running a full time photography business. Tindallfarmerphotography.com

Zoe Harrison | Contributing Writer

Zoe is a biomedical engineer with a focus in medical writing, and has authored a number of publications in scientific journals. She is a native Memphian and is a passionate runner, yogi, and weightlifter. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and playing with her golden doodle, Sully.

Lucy Modzelewski | Social Media Editor

Lucy is a branding and marketing professional and native Memphian. An avid runner, she enjoys running on the Green Line with her husband and participating in races throughout the year.

Josh Clark | Photographer

Josh is a moment photographer. Drawn less to perfection and more to what’s real. As the owner of HyperFocus Run Club, his photography is shaped by community and motion, focused on memory over performance and images that feel lived-in and honest. At the core of it all is a love for people, for building meaningful community, for his wife, and for life alongside his German Shepherd, Ranger.

Shlomit Ovadia | Contributing Writer

Shlomit Ovadia is a Content Strategist for a Colorado-based nonprofit, where she currently lives and enjoys all the outdoors lifestyle has to offer. In addition to her freelance work in writing and editing, Shlomit’s poetry and creative pieces have been published in various literary journals including Grande Dame Literary and Sad Girls Club Literary Blog.

Maya Smith | Contributing Writer

Maya is a native Memphian who is passionate about living well and helping others do the same. She is a fitness instructor and personal trainer at a local gym. In her free time, Maya enjoys kayaking, photography, swimming, and enjoying the outdoors.

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Amanda Tompkins | Contributing Writer

Amanda Tompkins is a freelance writer living life part time above the arctic circle. She works as a remote village optometrist in the Northwest Arctic Borough of Alaska. When not in AK, she lives in Midtown Memphis with her family and three pups. She enjoys kickboxing, circuit training, camping, hiking, kayaking and mountain biking.

Beth Wilson | Contributing Writer

Beth Wilson is a native Memphian and the Founder and CEO of Wilson Public Relations. She is an avid runner and hot Pilates enthusiast, and is extremely passionate about her work and the Memphis Tigers. She also enjoys traveling, speaking about and mentoring others on their entrepreneurial journey, and advocating for women and mental health.

Transform your body with science-backed wellness and expert care at De La Belle Body & Wellness. From medically guided weight-loss programs to advanced body contouring, injectables, and rejuvenating skin treatments, our team helps you feel stronger, healthier, and more confident every day.

• Medical Weight Loss & GLP-1 Support –Personalized plans with ongoing coaching.

• Advanced Body Sculpting & Contouring –Tighten, tone, and define.

• Skin Rejuvenation – Laser treatments, HydraFacials, microneedling & more.

• Wellness Services – IV therapy, hormone support, and overall vitality.

• Expert Medical Team – Professional, personalized, and results-driven.

ThriveMD Health Spa Celebrates Grand Opening in Lakeland’s Village Market Lane

ThriveMD Health Spa is proud to announce the grand opening of its newest premier wellness destination located in Village Market Lane. Dedicated to the philosophy that wellness is the foundation of confidence and vitality, ThriveMD blends cutting-edge medical treatments with the luxury and comfort of a modern spa experience.

Serving the Lakeland and greater Memphis communities, ThriveMD specializes in a comprehensive suite of science-based treatments. The clinic’s diverse service menu includes medical weight loss solutions, hormone therapy, wellness injections, red light therapy, and advanced peptides. Clients looking for aesthetic and physical rejuvenation can also benefit from IV hydration and the innovative T-Shape2 body-contouring system.

“Our goal is to create a space where wellness and beauty are accessible, customized, and effective,” said the ThriveMD team.

“We believe true confidence stems from feeling healthy and vibrant. We are thrilled to provide the Lakeland community with personalized medical care that helps our clients thrive from the inside out.”

At ThriveMD, safety and innovation are paramount. Every client receives a thorough consultation and an individualized care plan designed by medical experts to ensure natural-looking, sustainable results. The clinic prioritizes patient education and long-term health, moving beyond standard aesthetics to offer total body rejuvenation.

About ThriveMD Health Spa

ThriveMD Health Spa is a premier medical spa serving Memphis and Lakeland, Tennessee. By combining state-of-the-art medical treatments with compassionate, personalized care, ThriveMD empowers clients to achieve their health and aesthetic goals. For more information or to book an appointment, visit Thrivemdmemphis.com or call 901.706.6401.

Cole Pain Therapy Group

When pain slows you down, it places limits on your life.

We provide customized chiropractic solutions to free you Our team has been relieving pain and restoring lives for over 40 years.

Relieving pain. Restoring lives. from pain’s limitations, to move well, and to feel healthier for life.

Wild Beet Salad Co. is Open in Midtown — and We’re Bringing the Greens to Stomping Grounds!

Big news, Memphis! Wild Beet Salad Co. has officially spread our roots and opened a new location — this time in the heart of Midtown. Wild Beet operates independently and is the on-site restaurant partner for Stomping Grounds, the brand-new family clubhouse at Cooper & Central, officially launching later this summer.

Think: play spaces for kids, chill spaces for parents, coffee, kombucha taps, community, AND… your favorite salads, wraps, paninis, and quesadillas.

Basically, everything you need to survive parenthood in one spot.

Fresh food meets family fun: A match made in Midtown

At the new Midtown location, Wild Beet is keeping all of the fan favorites, but is also adding a few things as we go, which will include:

• All your favorites like Cashew Crunch, Kale Yeah, and Southwestern salads and wraps

• Paninis, quesadillas, and fajitas

• Easy online ordering and pick up

• NEW! A dedicated kids menu

• NEW! Breakfast

• NEW! Lil’ Beet Treats ice cream shop

What is Stomping Grounds?

Imagine Railgarten had a baby with a coffee shop, added indoor AND outdoor play, hired a babysitter, created work-from-home spaces, added healthy food, ice cream, and designed it all around real parent schedules.

Yep. That’s Stomping Grounds.

• Giant indoor + outdoor play areas

• A rentable conference room for parents on Zoom calls

• Self-serve taps for coffee, cold brew, kombucha, soda, beer, wine, and more

• A private party room

• Flexible hours (because kids don’t care if nothing in Memphis opens before 9 a.m.)

• Pickleball court

It’s family-first, community-centered, and 100% designed around the village it takes to raise tiny humans.

For more information, visit Wildbeetsalads.com or on Instagram @wildbeetsaladco.

Physician-led, advanced, personalized, science-backed therapies and a full 360° approach to help you feel energized, balanced, and strong.

From peptide therapy and hormone optimization to comprehensive wellness and aesthetics - you plan is designed around you.

NAD+ & Peptides:

The Gas & The GPS

In the world of Longevity and Aesthetic Medicine, Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) and Peptides are often mentioned together, but they are not the same. Think of them as complementary tools with different jobs. NAD+ is the gas fueling cellular energy and repair, while Peptides are the GPS directing the body where to go and what to do. They work together in synergy to support how the body functions and looks.

NAD+: The Gas

NAD+ is an enzyme found in every cell of the body. Its primary role is energy production, specifically driving mitochondrial function and ATP generation. As we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline, which is associated with fatigue, longer recovery, cognitive decline, and reduced cellular repair.

From a longevity perspective, NAD+ supports metabolic health, neurological function, DNA repair, and optimizes overall cellular resilience. From an aesthetic perspective, it supports improved cellular energy, which, in turn, can enhance skin and hair quality, promote better healing, and enhance vitality. This molecule can produce different outcomes, depending on the goal and protocol. As a naturally occurring compound in the body, NAD+ is not FDAapproved as a drug. Its role as a naturally occurring compound is widely used in clinical practice due to a growing body of positive clinical outcomes, safety data, and long-standing research. IV NAD+ is more effectively absorbed than oral NAD+ because it bypasses the digestive system and first-pass metabolism in the liver, allowing NAD+ to enter the bloodstream directly and reach cells at higher and more predictable levels. Oral NAD+ must be broken down in the gut and converted into precursor molecules before the body can use it, which significantly limits how much ultimately becomes available at the cellular level.

Peptides: The GPS

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules. Instead of fueling the system, they tell the body where to go to stimulate healing, regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation, trigger tissue repair, etc. Each peptide has a specific destination. From a longevity perspective, peptides support foundational processes such as cellular repair, metabolic efficiency,

By Lisa Street, NP

inflammation modulation, gut integrity and musculoskeletal resilience, helping the body function better over time, and age more gracefully. From an aesthetic perspective, peptides act more locally and visibly, supporting collagen production, skin and hair quality, tissue healing, fat metabolism, and recovery after aesthetic procedures.

Researchers have found more than 7,000 unique peptides. Approximately 80 to 90 FDA-approved “peptide-based drugs” are available, whereas many natural peptide structures are currently being utilized within regenerative, longevity, and aesthetic medicine.

Some of the most widely used peptides in Aesthetic and Longevity Medicine are

• GLP-1’s

• GHK-Cu (Copper)

• TB- 500

• BPC-157

Why do they work better together? NAD+ improves the cell’s capacity to respond while peptides direct the response. Using the “Gas and GPS” analogy, think… fuel without direction is ine cient, while direction without fuel is limited. Together, they allow for more precise, effective outcomes, whether the goal is longevity or aesthetics.

Patient safety is paramount! Compounded peptides and NAD+ must be sourced through licensed, compliant pharmacies. Following FDA guidelines, adhering to rigorous quality control, conducting purity and sterility testing, and maintaining proper handling and storage ensure consistency, reliability, and patient trust. Always consult a reputable licensed provider to determine if you are a candidate for treatment. A thorough health history should be obtained, and any pre-treatment screening should be performed if indicated based on health history.

Schedule your consult with Lisa, NP, at Glo Medical Aesthetics by calling 901.552.3461 or by visiting Glomedmemphis.com.

Lisa Street, NP, at 53, brings over 32 years of nursing experience, with a background in ER/ICU/Nursing Education and 20 years in Medical Aesthetics. Passionate about Functional Medicine, she emphasizes mind-body balance and intentional self-care. Lisa believes in living the principles she teaches and loves partnering with patients on their journey to optimal health via what she calls “Lifestyle Medicine”.

By Allison Baskett, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Creating Healthy Habits

Why does willpower drop after January?

Willpower isn’t magic; it’s energy. January is powered by novelty, hope, and shiny-new-goal adrenaline. By February, real life shows up. Stress, poor sleep, work demands, kids, weather, and decision fatigue all drain the same mental battery we use for self-control. So it’s not that people lose discipline — they run out of bandwidth.

How do stress, perfectionism, and guilt derail healthy habits?

Stress puts the brain into survival mode. When that happens, long-term goals like fitness take a back seat to immediate needs. Perfectionism then raises the bar unrealistically high. Miss one workout? Break your diet for a day? Suddenly, the whole plan feels ruined. Guilt jumps in and says, “See, you can’t stick to anything.”

Guilt is one of the fastest ways to kill motivation. It doesn’t inspire change. It shuts people down.

What are simple mindset resets that keep routines realistic and sustainable?

First, drop the “all or nothing” mindset. Something is always better than nothing. A ten-minute workout counts. A walk counts. Stretching counts.

Second, think in averages, not streaks. Consistency over time matters far more than perfect execution. In my practice, I often

refer to the 80/20 rule. Do your best 80% of the time, and give yourself an abundance of grace for the other 20%.

Third, plan for low-energy days. The most sustainable routines aren’t built for your most motivated self. They’re built for your tired, stressed, busy self.

What counselor-backed strategies help people stay consistent without going extreme?

One of my favorites is the “minimum viable habit.” Ask yourself, “What’s the smallest version of this I can do even on a rough day?” That keeps the habit alive instead of abandoned.

Another is neutral self-talk. Instead of “I failed,” try “I paused, now I’m restarting.” That small shift keeps shame out of the process. We are often our own worst critics. I often tell my patients to speak to themselves as if they were speaking to their best friend. If your best friend fell off the wagon, would you shame them back to action? Or would you be supportive and encouraging, helping them jump back in? For their sake, hopefully the latter.

Finally, anchor habits to real life. Tie workouts to existing routines, keep expectations flexible, and allow seasons where maintenance is the win.

For more information on Pathways to Wellness, visit Pathwaystoday.com or call 901.878.3332.

Allison Baskett, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in child, adolescent, and perinatal women’s mental health. She integrates evidence-based medication management with lifestyle and behavioral strategies to support whole-person wellness for patients and families.

By Ariel Long, DO

Sleep and Your Heart: Why Good Sleep Matters

Patients are used to talking to their doctor about improving heart health through diet and exercise. Make sure you’re also discussing your sleep habits!

Many patients underestimate the significant impact sleep can have on heart health. Inadequate sleep or untreated sleep disorders like sleep apnea can have especially severe consequences.

As a sleep medicine physician, I can help guide you to better cardiovascular health.

While you sleep, your body repairs itself. Your heart rate slows and your blood pressure drops, giving your heart and blood vessels time to rest and repair themselves. If your sleep is interrupted night after night, that recovery time is lost, eventually increasing the risk of serious heart problems.

Getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night helps protect your heart. When you don’t get enough sleep, your heart must work harder, which over time can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, heart failure, stroke, irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation), and diabetes. Studies show that people who sleep fewer than six hours per night have a much higher risk of these problems than those who sleep seven to nine hours.

Poor sleep can worsen diabetes and contribute to weight gain, which raises your risk of cardiovascular disease. Chronic sleep disruptions also cause the heart to stay in a constant state of high alert, increasing stress hormones, blood pressure, and inflammation — all of which can damage blood vessels over time.

Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders. Patients actually stop breathing repeatedly while they sleep. Every pause in normal breathing lowers oxygen levels, causing the body to wake briefly to restart breathing. These disruptions can put stress on the heart and blood vessels.

Studies link untreated sleep apnea to an elevated risk of hypertension, heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. Common signs include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, feeling very tired during the day, morning headaches, and trouble concentrating.

To diagnose sleep apnea, we ask you to undergo a sleep study. Usually, this can be done at home.

If you have sleep apnea, the typical treatment is a CPAP machine, which keeps the airway open at night, preventing pauses in breathing. However, CPAP is not the only option, and we can work together to find the best treatment for you based on your medical history, the severity of your sleep apnea, and your preferences.

For some patients, the issue is not sleep apnea. We can identify the root cause of sleep disorders like insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and circadian rhythm disorders. Then, we can find the right treatment plan, which can include better sleep hygiene, lifestyle changes, medication, and other options.

Treating sleep disorders can help lower blood pressure, improve heart rhythm stability, and reduce strain on the heart. Studies show patients who use CPAP for four or more hours per night have a significantly lower risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events.

Remember

these simple ways to improve your sleep:

• Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day

• Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool

• Avoid caffeine and large meals before bedtime

• Turn off phones, tablets, and TVs at least 30 minutes before bed

• Get regular exercise, but not right before bedtime

• Limit alcohol, which can disrupt your sleep

As a sleep physician, I encourage patients to pay attention to symptoms such as snoring, daytime fatigue, morning headaches, and frequent nighttime waking. These can all signal a sleep disorder — and the possibility that your heart isn’t getting the rest it needs.

Seek care early to address issues before they contribute to serious health problems. Along with protecting your heart, you’ll give yourself better energy, focus, and quality of life!

By Sharonda Walton, ANP-BC

Six Reasons Why Letybo Has Wrinkles Shaking in Their Boots

Number one in South Korea for nearly a decade, Letybo is making waves in the U.S. aesthetic market. If you thought all wrinkle relaxers were simply “Botox,” think again. Today, there are six FDA-approved neurotoxins available in the U.S.: Botox, Xeomin, Dysport, Jeuveau, Daxxify, and now Letybo, the Korean import that entered U.S. dermatology and medical aesthetics offices last spring.

All neuromodulators share the same active ingredient, botulinum toxin type A, which works by relaxing targeted facial muscles to soften dynamic wrinkles. Where Letybo stands out is in its refined formulation, fast onset, and precision — delivering smooth results without freezing facial expression.

Here’s why Letybo has frown lines running for cover.

1. Fast-acting results

Letybo has been shown to begin softening dynamic lines within approximately one to three days, which can be sooner than some traditional formulations. Patients often notice early improvement with minimal downtime, followed by continued refinement over the next several days. The result is a refreshed, well-rested appearance that still looks natural.

2. Cost-effective pricing

Letybo is often priced more affordably per unit than other neuromodulators, making high-quality aesthetic treatments more accessible. This allows patients to maintain consistent treatment schedules without compromising safety or results. At Royalty Wellness Spa in Memphis, TN, we focus on balancing value, expertise, and outcomes to support long-term aesthetic goals.

3. Natural-looking outcomes

When administered by a trained injector, Letybo effectively softens wrinkles while preserving natural facial movement. Proper assessment of facial anatomy and muscle activity allows for precise placement and dosing, helping patients avoid an overdone look. Most patients can expect subtle smoothing with maintained expressiveness.

4. Reliable duration

Letybo typically lasts about three to four months, comparable to other FDA-approved neurotoxins. With regular treatments, many patients experience improved muscle balance over time, making long-term maintenance easier and results more refined.

5. Lower risk of resistance

Letybo’s highly purified formulation contains fewer accessory proteins, which may help reduce the risk of antibody development that can lead to treatment resistance. Combined with expert injection technique, this supports consistent efficacy and predictable results over time.

6. Proven safety and global trust

Internationally known as Botulax, Letybo has been used worldwide for many years, with millions of doses administered across Asia, Europe, and beyond. Its extensive global track record provides reassurance regarding both safety and effectiveness.

Letybo doesn’t replace Botox — it expands the toolbox. Its arrival introduces healthy competition that benefits both providers and patients through increased choice, accessibility, and innovation. With comparable performance and potential advantages in onset, pricing, and formulation, Letybo has earned its place as a valuable addition to the neuromodulator category.

For more information, call 901.410.8905 or visit Royaltywellnessspa.com. Sharonda Walton, ANP-BC, is a board-certified adult nurse practitioner, medical aesthetics educator, and founder of Royalty Wellness Spa in Memphis, Tennessee. A 2025 American Med Spa Association Distinguished Woman in Medical Aesthetics honoree, she is widely recognized for her leadership, clinical expertise, and commitment to ethical, inclusive aesthetic care.

How Orthopedic Health Protects Your Heart

The Surprising Link Between Joint Health and Heart Health

When most people think about orthopedics, heart health isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But as a sports medicine physician, I see the connection every day. The way we move — or don’t move — has a profound impact on cardiovascular health. When orthopedic issues are addressed early and effectively, the heart benefits, too.

When Pain Slows You Down, the Heart Feels It

Orthopedic injuries and chronic pain can make staying active difficult. Reduced movement doesn’t just affect joints and muscles — it affects the entire body. Inactivity can contribute to weight gain, higher blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, increased diabetes risk, and a decline in overall fitness. All of these factors place additional strain on the heart.

Movement: One of the Best Heart Medicines

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to prevent heart disease. Even moderate exercise lowers cardiovascular risk and improves overall health by:

• Controlling blood pressure

• Improving cholesterol

• Reducing blood sugar and diabetes risk

• Supporting a healthy weight

• Strengthening circulation and heart function

• Lowering inflammation

To stay active consistently, you need a body that moves comfortably and safely — and that’s where orthopedic care plays a vital role.

Orthopedic Care Supports Heart-Healthy Living

Good orthopedic care isn’t just about treating pain; it’s about restoring and protecting your ability to move. Addressing injuries to bones, tendons, ligaments, and muscles through medications, injections, bracing, physical therapy, or surgery can reduce pain and help you return to activity sooner. Strengthening programs and rehabilitation also play a crucial role in regaining function and maintaining it long-term.

When orthopedic issues go untreated, they can lead to chronic pain, long-term disability, and even greater difficulty maintaining a healthy weight — all of which increase cardiovascular risk. Proper treatment also helps you move more safely, reducing the chance of additional injuries that could further limit activity.

What You Can Do to Protect Your Joints and Your Heart

One of the most important steps is simple: tell your doctor when you’re in pain. Untreated pain often leads to avoidance of movement, which can snowball into bigger health problems. While the goal isn’t always to eliminate pain entirely, it is to make it manageable so you can stay active. Supportive braces, proper footwear, and activity modifications can help keep you moving.

Prevention is equally important. Maintaining a healthy body weight, strength training two to three times per week, staying consistent with movement, and using proper technique and equipment all help reduce orthopedic injuries and support heart health. Addressing small issues early prevents them from becoming chronic problems that limit mobility.

The Bottom Line

Your orthopedic health and heart health are deeply connected. By caring for your joints, muscles, and bones — and by staying active in safe, sustainable ways — you’re also caring for your heart. If you’re unsure where to start or pain is holding you back, a sports medicine specialist can help guide you toward a stronger, healthier, heart-happy life.

Dr. Joshua Brandon is a board-certified, fellowship-trained primary care sports medicine physician specializing in the evaluation and management of non-surgical musculoskeletal issues and sports medicine. His focuses include: sports medicine injury management and prevention, sports concussions, ultrasound-guided procedures, and orthobiologics treatment. For more information on Dr. Brandon, visit CampbellClinic.com.

LOVE YOUR HEART

When Lori Sepich began experiencing afternoon headaches at 17, she didn’t think much of it. However, a visit to the pediatrician revealed she was suffering from extreme hypertension and at risk for stroke. “They made me take medication before I could leave that day,” Lori recalls, though at 17 she “didn’t care and was much more interested in graduating and doing high school things.”

Despite being prescribed high blood pressure medication for the genetic condition, Lori took the pills haphazardly until 34. During a routine doctor visit, she lied when asked about taking her medicine regularly, as the numbers on her chart revealed another story.

“He explained what damage a stroke would do to me at that age and that I was playing with fire,” she recalls. “It was the intensity with which he talked to me. I cried because I was mad at myself.”

A lifelong gym-goer, Lori finally committed to bringing her blood pressure down through medication, though she picked up other bad habits along the way, like smoking.

In 2005, at 8:30 a.m. on Easter Sunday, Lori woke up with extreme pain shooting down both arms, chest pressure, and intense nausea. “I knew I was having a heart attack, but I was in such denial that I just stayed in bed crying, praying to God I would live,” she says. When the sensation returned the next day, Lori took her time getting to the emergency room. After alerting staff to her condition, they asked if she smoked. She told them, “I quit five minutes before I walked in the door.”

Lori was treated for her heart attack with major blockage, and six stents were placed. She was released a week later. “I felt so much guilt inside about having done this to myself through denial and not taking care of my heart health.”

Thirteen years later, after starting a new job, Lori suffered another heart attack, this time with a nearly 100% blockage in her widowmaker, and three more stents were placed.

“I came out of that with so much depression and guilt,” Lori shares. Six months later, her work — major sponsors of the American Heart Association — invited her to a Go Red for Women luncheon. “I went because my work asked me to, but I wanted no part in it. I was still in denial and scared. Nobody knew about my heart attack.”

Sitting in her turquoise outfit amidst a sea of red outfits in solidarity with the cause, Lori heard the first woman share her survival story, and it hit home. “I realized that was my story. Listening to her empowered me to share what I had denied for so long.”

After being encouraged to share her story by the ladies of the American Heart Association, Memphis chapter, Lori was embraced by them and invited to volunteer at fashion shows, luncheons, and other survivor events, watching attendance and support grow.

Recently, Lori was selected as part of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women 2026 Class of Survivors, representing the cause nationwide.

“It’s a huge honor for me,” she says. Lori founded Your Heart Rocks, where she and her friends hand-paint hearts on rocks and distribute them at cardiac rehab at St. Francis Hospital and other places around the community. “It’s cool. I get to be part of their journey by sharing this and what it means.”

Her mission is simple: love your heart and love yourself.

FB: Lori Sepich / IG: yourheartrocksmem

Laquita Tate, 49 & Nathaniel Tate, 53

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THEIR STORY

Laquita and Nate are true high school sweethearts, having met in the hallway 33 years ago. After asking for her number, Nate took Laquita out to a school game, and the pair have been inseparable ever since. While both were active in high school — Nate played basketball and ran track, and Laquita was a majorette and did cheerleading — things took a turn after the couple welcomed two beautiful children and noticed a bit of unwanted weight gain creeping up.

While they regularly took walks around the neighborhood and did home workout videos in the spare bedroom, Laquita was having trouble shedding her pregnancy weight and wanted to tone up. She started exercising with a personal trainer, and Nate eventually started tagging along.

A few years later, the couple switched to training with the owner of Versatile Action Fitness Gym and personal trainer Ezell Owens due to its proximity to their new home and work commitments.

PATHS TO FITNESS

Nate’s love for a challenging lift pushes Laquita. “He has such a positive attitude, it’s infectious,” she says. Ezell helps keep things

interesting for the couple through combined workouts tailored to each partner’s goals. Laquita and Nate work out with Ezell four times per week, with Nate squeezing in two additional solo workouts weekly. In their spare time, the couple likes to get outdoors for walks and long bike rides.

STRENGTHS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

The two constantly inspire and playfully tease one another. They also celebrate their individual accomplishments together. Laquita is proud of recently shedding 20 pounds, and Nate is proud of crushing it at unassisted pull-ups. When not at the gym, Laquita also frequents HotWorx and Evolve Pilates.

GOALS & ADVICE

Their goal is to be in the best shape — physically and mentally — as they move through life, while incorporating a healthy diet and staying hydrated. They both know the important role exercise plays in combating some symptoms related to aging, especially hormonerelated shifts such as perimenopause, among other things.

Their advice is to always keep pushing yourself, even on days when you don’t feel like it or feel discouraged by not seeing immediate results.

This Valentineʼs, give yourself space to breathe. Our intimate oceanfront Soul Reset retreat is designed for burned-out bodies, busy minds, and people craving reconnection. Expect grounding yoga, strength-building Pilates, restorative movement, ocean air, deep rest, and time that finally slows down. Come solo. Come together. Leave lighter.

By Zoe

THEIR STORY

Matt and Marcie Haaga’s love story proves that timing is everything. Though mutual friends mentioned them to each other more than two years before they met, life didn’t align until they finally had their first date. Three and a half years later, they’ve been married for eight months and are building a full, active life together. They share their home and adventures with two golden retrievers, Hank and Otis, who often join them at Shelby Farms off-leash dog park.

PATHS TO FITNESS

Fitness has long been part of Marcie’s identity. A former cheerleader, she stayed active into adulthood, finding her stride in running and weightlifting in her early twenties. For Matt, movement became transformative after getting sober at the end of 2015. Health and fitness offered an outlet that quickly evolved into a passion for endurance sports. Today, the couple runs together, practices yoga, and trains at Higher and other local gyms together through their DiversiFit membership. They also train alongside local run and bike groups that keep them connected and motivated, and both just joined the Los Locos Racing Team.

STRENGTHS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

One of their biggest shared strengths is knowing when the other needs movement. “There are signs,” Marcie jokes. They keep each other accountable by always having a race or goal on the calendar, and that mindset has paid off for the Haagas. Matt completed the legendary Leadville 100 Run in 2024 and finished his first full Ironman last September. Marcie qualified for the Boston Marathon in her very first marathon. This past summer, they took their passion global, running and hiking the 106-mile Mont Blanc Trail through France, Switzerland, and Italy on their honeymoon.

Beyond their physical feats, they deeply admire each other’s character. Matt credits Marcie’s organization, thoughtfulness, and unwavering faith. Marcie describes Matt as joyful, adventurous, and endlessly generous, especially through his volunteer work coaching football and serving the youth group at their church. The motivation they find through their active lifestyles spills into their professional lives as business owners — Marcie owns Cosmic Blonde salon, and Matt owns two local State Farm agencies.

GOALS & ADVICE

Matt is most excited to support Marcie as she prepares to run the Leadville 100 this August; his own race plans may include a Half Ironman or two this year. Their advice to those seeking a fit and active lifestyle is that consistency matters more than intensity, and goals should align with real life. “Motivation may spark the journey, but habits sustain it,” they agree. For the couple, fitness isn’t just something they do, but is foundational to their life together.

By Zoe

THEIR STORY

Corrie Lehmann and Hillary Calhoun met long before fitness became the glue of their relationship. Growing up in two small neighboring towns known for a fierce sports rivalry, Corrie Lehmann and Hillary Calhoun first crossed paths in high school, Hillary on the basketball court, and Corrie as a cheerleader for the rivaling team. While technically on opposing sides, the two now know they were clearly meant to end up on the same team. They have now been together for six years, sharing life with two dogs, Benny and Lloyd, and a cat named Loki.

PATHS TO FITNESS

Hillary’s connection to fitness started early. A lifelong athlete and former college basketball player, she grew up loving competition and challenge. Today, her focus has shifted toward long-term health and staying active, but her drive remains. While Corrie cheered throughout high school, it wasn’t until joining Orangetheory Fitness in 2022 that health and wellness truly clicked in her adulthood. She learned how to work out, built confidence, and fell in love with the process. Within months, she joined the Orangetheory staff, where she still works today.

STRENGTHS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

For Corrie and Hillary, most days include Orangetheory workouts or runs, balanced by slower, grounding activities like pickleball, walks at Shelby Farms, trips to the zoo, or evenings strolling with their dogs. Hillary’s dedication pushes Corrie to keep showing up for herself, while Corrie’s consistency grounds Hillary and makes wellness feel effortless. Hillary admires Corrie’s grit and tenacity, and her refusal to quit when things get tough. Corrie credits Hillary’s resilient mindset and focus as strengths that elevate their training and partnership.

Corrie is most proud of building consistency, going from unsure in the gym to making fitness a daily habit. Hillary treasures her athletic roots, including induction into her high school Sports Hall of Fame, and recently completed the United Airlines NYC Half Marathon, racing through iconic landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Times Square.

GOALS & ADVICE

Corrie and Hillary have found their partnership and ability to lean on one another immensely important for achieving their goals. When one person falters, the other becomes their anchor. “Wellness isn’t a solo sprint; it’s a relay,” they say. Looking ahead, Corrie and Hillary plan to maintain their routines while training together for a women’s doubles HYROX competition.

By

THEIR STORY

William and Sheila both happened to be working the overnight shift at Federal Express Corp. in 1988, only to find themselves connecting several hours later over an early morning breakfast at a nearby Denny’s. Though grateful for the fortuitous encounter that brought them together, both have moved on to find fulfilling careers in bread distribution and in cardiopulmonary and neurodiagnostic services.

PATHS TO FITNESS

After marrying in 1991, and two children and three dogs later, the couple remains loyal to their love of sports, having played in organized leagues in their younger years. Yet it was their eldest daughter, Alexandria, who inspired the couple to get back on track, purchasing a Peloton bike for their home and challenging them to use it. Once the couple grew accustomed to the bike workouts, Alexandria upped the stakes, challenging them to work out with a personal trainer.

William and Sheila accepted the challenge and are now regular gym-goers, working out together and keeping each other accountable. The couple reflects on their recent fitness journey, sharing that “fitness has been a life-changing lifestyle.

STRENGTHS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

The couple works out with trainer John Harris at Gym11 Body by Davon, through customized sessions that support their exercise levels and future goals. Sheila motivates William by bringing humor and lightheartedness to their strenuous workouts. Meanwhile, William is a steady source of encouragement for Sheila, telling her, “You’ve got this,” especially when she appears to be struggling or almost done with a lift.

Sheila is proud of William for pushing himself to build core strength after undergoing surgery last year. Similarly, William congratulates Sheila for keeping up training after her knee surgery. The two plan their schedules around working out, emphasizing that their health is an absolute priority.

As former athletes, Sheila and William remain avid sports fans, with the perfect date night consisting of attending a Memphis Grizzlies game followed by dinner with live music.

GOALS & ADVICE

Their goals for the new year are to continue working out with their personal trainer while working towards running a 5K. The couple advises others to set small, realistic goals and find a workout partner to stay motivated through their fitness journey.

By

THEIR STORY

The attorney and law officer have been together for over nine years, having met initially through a dating app. Now, three kids and one dog later, the couple stays active through their involvement at The Yard, a state-of-the-art indoor athletic training facility in Arlington. Through their new routine, Emily and Michael have been appreciating getting older while staying in shape.

PATHS TO FITNESS

Michael has always pursued fitness thanks to a lifelong interest, while Emily grew up playing sports and continues to prioritize exercise. She notes that making a point of eating cleaner foods and exercising regularly as she ages has helped her significantly with managing stress and the hectic schedules of day-to-day life. In addition to working out at The Yard, the couple regularly uses their home gym and switches things up with neighborhood runs. Emily balances out her routine by also taking classes at Hot Yoga Plus in East Memphis.

The couple has truly mastered the art of giving one another time and space to take care of themselves physically in order to show up better. Emily goes to the gym at 5 a.m. a few days a week, in

addition to one evening class, during which Michael takes over watching the kids and managing household tasks. Then, Michael has time to go on a run or workout at their home gym while Emily shifts to watching the kids and holding down the fort — teamwork at its finest!

Their favorite date activity is dinner and bowling, which brings another layer of friendly competition and camaraderie.

STRENGTHS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Both parents bring their own unique strengths to the relationship. Michael is well-rounded, strong, and always pushing himself to improve. Emily can truly ‘do it all’ yet still shows up with strength and love. After turning 40, Emily signed up for an Army basic course and has been crushing it. Michael is not letting the fact that time is passing slow down his fitness goals.

GOALS & ADVICE

This year, Emily hopes to do five pullups, and Michael aims to shed 10 pounds. Their advice for other couples: “Although it’s hard and life is busy, make time to care for your body with movements and nourishment, and stay healthy and motivated — no excuses!”

A MORE CONFIDENT YOU STARTS NOW

By Zoe Harrison

THEIR STORY

Like many love stories today, Peterson and Tyler’s began with a bold slide into each other’s Instagram inboxes. Tyler took the first step by sending Peterson a message, despite having zero mutual followers. Peterson didn’t respond right away, but Tyler’s persistence paid off. Five years later, they’ve built a life together rooted in positivity and mutual support. They share their home with their golden doodle, Bailey, and are looking ahead to growing their family in the not-so-distant future. When they’re slowing down, you’ll likely find them enjoying an early Sunday dinner at Hog & Hominy or Good Fortune Co.

PATHS TO FITNESS

Fitness has been part of Peterson’s life for nearly a decade. He began teaching at CycleBar ten years ago and was instantly hooked on the energy, music-driven workouts, and sense of connection that group fitness creates. Today, he balances full-time real estate work with The FIRM while teaching cycling at CycleBar Midtown and Hot Pilates at mind/body HAUS.

Tyler’s fitness journey began more recently. When the two started dating, he committed to working out more consistently. He discovered a genuine love for the sweaty life, especially Hot Pilates at mind/body HAUS, which has become a staple in his routine.

STRENGTHS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

At home, Tyler is the culinary anchor of the relationship. He plans and prepares meals that are both nourishing and enjoyable, helping them both stay consistent with eating clean. Peterson, meanwhile, inspires Tyler with his seemingly endless energy. Peterson and Tyler admire each other deeply. Peterson praises Tyler’s warmth and ability to make anyone, friend or stranger, feel seen and valued. Tyler credits Peterson’s endless optimism, encouragement, and leadership as a constant source of motivation.

In 2026, Peterson will celebrate 10 years of teaching fitness and has been voted one of Memphis Health+Fitness Magazine’s top group fitness instructors three years in a row. Tyler is most proud of rebuilding his strength after spine surgery two and a half years ago, returning to regular workout classes and using Hot Pilates to strengthen his core and protect his back.

GOALS & ADVICE

This year, their shared focus is building strength, particularly core strength, through consistent Hot Pilates workouts at mind/body HAUS. They’re also committed to eating clean whenever possible, prioritizing whole foods and quality ingredients, while still leaving room for the occasional donut.

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Jodie Shusta , 23 & Jack Hampton , 25

THEIR STORY

Jodie and Jack are big gym-goers and hail from active childhoods. Jodie played volleyball and ran track in high school, and then ran track and cross country in college. Jack wrestled and played basketball in high school and ran cross country as well. So it made sense that the two lovebirds would first lock eyes on one another during a workout session at their local gym, ATC Fitness in Collierville. The occasional chats at the gym eventually turned into dates, and now the fit couple shares their love of movement together.

PATHS TO FITNESS

Jodie and Jack were both raised by fitness enthusiasts, with Jodie’s father training Olympically in weightlifting, and Jack’s father a Team USA triathlete and his mother a marathon runner.

Post-college, Jodie and Jack made a point to infuse fitness more deeply into their lives. The couple says they’ve forged some of their closest friendships through the gym and other activities, such as HyperFocus Run Club and pickup basketball games.

Hitting the gym multiple times a week, the couple says, “We take our workouts seriously but also use them as time to have fun and limit stress!”

They also stay active by playing pickleball or working out together and with friends. Whether it’s a joint lifting session or going on long walks sans phones, the couple prioritizes their fitness wherever they are — in town and on the go. However, they do enjoy the occasional espresso and macro-friendly charcuterie board at Hen House in East Memphis.

STRENGTHS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Jodie is up at 5 a.m. daily to hit the gym, and heads out just about when Jack pulls up for his daily lift at 6:30 a.m. “It makes me want to be there on time so we can pass each other,” he adds.

GOALS & ADVICE

Jodie, who ran in the St. Jude half-marathon last year, has her eyes set on running a full marathon in 2026. She also hopes to convince Jack to participate in the HYROX global indoor fitness test this year, and really push their limits in a fun and supportive environment.

To reach your goals, the couple advises staying consistent, disciplined, and locked in on nutrition, year-round.

By Zoe Harrison

THEIR STORY

Judiann and Marcus Jones’ story began online and came to life over their first date at Huey’s, which is still a sentimental favorite 15 years later. Married for 13 of those years, they’ve built a full and joyful life together in Memphis, raising three children ages nine, six, and three, alongside an ever-growing menagerie of fish, shrimp, and lizards. Between work, parenting, and packed schedules, they cherish simple moments together, like a nice dinner and people-watching.

PATHS TO FITNESS

Judiann’s fitness journey began nearly 17 years ago, when she moved to Memphis and started running local 5Ks, eventually working her way up to half marathons. After having children, she shifted toward a more sustainable form of movement, discovering reformer Pilates at Club Pilates and Hot Pilates at Sana Yoga. For the past four and a half years, Pilates has been a near-daily practice for Judiann, supporting both her physical and mental well-being. This year, she’s setting her sights on returning to running alongside her Pilates routine.

Around the time he met Judiann, Marcus began running and steadily increased his mileage. With guidance from his best friend and running coach, Derek Morgan, Marcus trained for and completed his first marathon at the Rocket City Marathon in 2014, followed by two more. Running has remained his primary form of exercise ever since.

STRENGTHS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

With three young children, much of their daily movement happens organically through chasing kids, biking, and walking around Germantown or Shelby Farms, and spending summer days at the pool. Still, they are intentional about supporting each other’s routines. Judiann often takes on the morning chaos so Marcus can get his run in before work, while Marcus helps her stay on track to make it to her Pilates classes on time.

They deeply admire one another’s consistency. Marcus praises Judiann’s dedication to movement while balancing being a parent and her career as a clinical psychologist and owner of Insight Behavioral Wellness. Judiann calls Marcus her rock and appreciates that his commitment to running allows him to show up fully as a partner and role model for their children.

Their accomplishments speak to their consistency. Judiann has completed over 1,000 reformer Pilates classes in four years, while Marcus has qualified for the Boston Marathon, a milestone he hopes to one day run.

GOALS & ADVICE

The couple has found success and progress through consistency, which they have discovered supports both their physical and emotional health. Looking ahead, Judiann aims to reach 1,250 Pilates classes and also return to running, while Marcus plans to average five hours of running per week. Together, they’re committed to staying active and setting a lifelong example for their kids.

NEW BEGINNINGS DON’T HAVE AN AGE LIMIT

By Dale Sanford, Performance Coach

AVOIDING THE GRAY ZONE

If you’ve ever finished an “easy” workout breathing a little too hard, or wrapped up a “hard” session thinking, eh, that was fine, congratulations! You’ve joined the largest training club in endurance sports: the gray zone club. This is the place where fitness gains go to stall. As a triathlon coach, I see this pattern constantly. Athletes push their easy days enough to feel productive, then dial back their hard days to survive the week. The result is a lot of work, not much progress, and a lingering sense of fatigue that never quite goes away. Let’s break down why this happens and how to fix it.

WHY EASY DAYS MATTER MORE THAN YOU THINK

Easy training isn’t about being lazy; it’s about building the engine. At low intensity, your body improves aerobic efficiency, increases mitochondrial density, and strengthens connective tissue with less overall stress. When intentionally easy workouts get too hard, two things happen. First, you generate more fatigue than anticipated (intensity is a multiplier). Second, you compromise recovery for upcoming quality sessions so they won’t be as strong. Easy days build and maintain the foundation, and hard days move the needle.

WHY HARD DAYS NEED TO ACTUALLY BE HARD

Hard workouts are where you create a clear stimulus. Threshold development, VO2 max, and neuromuscular efficiency. These adaptations require contrast. If everything is medium-hard, nothing stands out enough to force change. Also, when athletes carry fatigue from overly hard easy days, hard sessions turn into “phoning it in”. Power numbers drop. Pace fades. The workout loses its purpose. Textbook responses from the body when it’s fatigued are increased resting heart rate AND the lowering of max heart rate. Hard days should feel demanding, focused, and yes, uncomfortable. That only works if you’re fresh enough to execute them properly.

THE OVER-SIMPLIFIED SCIENCE

Your body adapts best when stress is applied in clear, consistent signals, followed by clear, consistent recovery. The mistake isn’t training hard; it’s training hard all the time, and not resting enough. Moderate intensity produces moderate gains and disproportionate fatigue. That’s a bad trade-off.

HOW TO KEEP EASY DAYS EASY (SO HARD DAYS CAN BE HARD)

Use objective controls like heart rate, power, or pace, and set a firm ceiling based on your known thresholds. If you’re “feeling good” and drifting faster, ask yourself what the goal of the workout is. If it’s supposed to be easy, try to pass the talk test. If you can’t speak in complete sentences, it’s not easy. If strangers think you’re racing them, it’s definitely not easy. Treat recovery the same way you treat your training. Recovery isn’t the absence of work; it’s where adaptation happens. It’s work that speeds up improvements. Protect it like a key workout.

THE PLOT TWIST

Here’s the curveball. If you constantly struggle mentally during hard workouts, even when the targets are well within your known power, pace, or heart rate ranges, it may not be a fitness issue at all. It might be psychological. For some athletes, repeated high-intensity sessions create anxiety, dread, or a mental shutdown long before physical limits are reached. In those cases, leaning more heavily into sweet-spot training (the comfortably uncomfortable zone just below the threshold) can be a productive alternative. Sweet spot work delivers solid aerobic gains with less mental friction. It’s repeatable, confidence-building, and easier to execute week after week. But there’s a catch. The sweet spot is still in the middle of the road. You will improve, but you won’t quite reach the same ceiling of adaptation that comes from well-executed, truly hard sessions layered on top of a strong aerobic base. The sweet spot is a bridge, not the destination.

THE TAKEAWAY

Fitness thrives on consistency and contrast. Easy days create the capacity to absorb work, while hard days provide the stimulus to improve. Blur the line between the two, and you end up tired, frustrated, and plateaued. Keep the easy days truly easy so that when it’s time to go hard, you actually can.

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Asha Bell, Runner

32; Senior Program Manager at National Network of Public Health Institutes

I f RUNNING: I love how running brings people together, especially in Memphis, and creates moments of encouragement and shared purpose. Running is a constant reminder that I can do hard things.

BUCKET LIST: Travel! I’d LOVE to go to the upcoming Olympics in LA with family.

UP NEXT: I’ll be participating in Robbie’s Run and the Great American River Run, and I would like to run a 10K race soon.

FAV FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: I ran my first halfmarathon in December 2025!

HOMETOWN: Memphis, TN

SPEED BUMPS: Balancing work, life, and fitness as a single mom, while finding time for strength training and long runs, while also pouring into others — it’s a challenge!

MY GROUP: I participate in the ‘Wake Up’ walk/run series with The Gloria Smith Foundation on Monday mornings. You can find me running with 901RunClub on Sundays and, on some Thursdays, attending Track Nights with Hyperfocus!

RECENT RACES: Memphis Parks Family 5K and the St. Jude Half-Marathon.

MOST MEMORABLE FITNESS EVENT: In 2025, I ran a 5K in seven different states! Also, hearing prayers and words of encouragement from family and friends during the St. Jude Half. I was reminded where my strength comes from and who was cheering me on every step of the way!

DREAM DINNER COMPANY: Michelle Obama. I admire how she leads with authenticity, prioritizes wellness and family, and uses her platform to uplift communities. I’d love to learn how she stays grounded while balancing purpose, public life, and personal values.

GO-TO GEAR: Headphones, Apple Watch, and comfortable socks (BOMBAS).

INSPIRATION TO BE FIT: As a mom, I want the energy and strength to keep up, play hard, and model healthy habits. Fitness helps me be present now and prepare well for the future. I’m motivated by moving with and for others — whether it’s running, community events, or using social media to encourage people in Memphis to get active and explore the beauty around them.

ON MY NIGHTSTAND: “How We Do Harm: A Doctor Breaks Ranks About Being Sick in America” by Otis Webb Brawley, MD, with Paul Goldberg

BINGE-WATCHING: The Chosen

QUOTE: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

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Danny Lee Smith III, Runner

24; Police Officer for the Memphis Police Department

I f RUNNING: I love running for overall fitness, the challenges, and the good people that you meet along the way. Being able to move my body and also compete for a great cause is unmatched.

BUCKET LIST: This year, I plan on running more races in different cities. My goal is to inspire anyone who feels like they can’t do something because it’s hard. I want to be a role model for future generations, and I don’t plan to give up anytime soon.

UP NEXT: I’ve been selected to participate in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in October!

FAV FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: My biggest accomplishment was recently running the full St. Jude Marathon.

HOMETOWN: Memphis, TN

SPEED BUMPS: In March, I took a break from running to overcome difficult pain in my soleus. I fought a lot of mental challenges, too, not being able to run for over a month. Working a full-time job while trying to balance running was very difficult, but I began to manage it along the way.

MY GROUP: Hyperfocus Run Club

FAV JAMS: “Relax and Take Notes” by 8Ball & MJG

RECENT RACES: I placed first overall at the Time Travel 10K.

MOST MEMORABLE FITNESS EVENT: Definitely, Global Running Day back in June, which various run groups in Memphis hosted. Seeing over 100 runners in Memphis, getting together and running for the joy of the sport, was a memory I won’t forget.

BEST EATS: Chili’s Triple Dipper with a cold water.

DREAM DINNER COMPANY: My dad, Danny Smith, so I could show him how far I’ve come in fitness and all of my achievements that he inspired me to accomplish.

GO-TO GEAR: I must have my COROS PACE 3, a running belt, comfortable shoes, and nice running gear.

INSPIRATION TO BE FIT: My dad, a known cyclist in Memphis, passed away in September 2023. He was my role model and inspired me to find something I would be good at and run with it.

ON MY NIGHTSTAND: “Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds” by David Goggins

PET PEEVE: Walkers at the start line on race day — it’s a hassle maneuvering through walkers while trying to run!

QUOTE: “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt

TARA TAYLOR

FAV WAY TO WORKOUT:

HIIT! It’s fast, tough, and effective — and CRAZY important for women. We all used to think the more the better, but current research shows that women need weights and HIIT. The constant cardio is so bad for our hormones, joints, and any gym goals we have.

BIGGEST FITNESS MYTH:

I have two. First, that as a woman, weight lifting will make you bulky. It is the BIGGEST lie out there. Second, long bouts of cardio will help you reach your weight loss goals. It’s actually the opposite. Short, quick bursts of cardio and resistance training are where it’s at.

BIGGEST NUTRITION MYTH:

Carbs are the enemy. We need carbs not only for energy but also for brain health.

MY

TYPICAL

WORKOUT DAY:

HIIT session followed by resistance training.

MY ADVICE:

Consistency is what counts. Life happens, and you might have to miss a week or more in the gym. But if you stay consistent through your life, those missed windows will not matter. Stay with it and never stop. Switch it up if you have to, but don’t stop.

MY FITNESS TIP:

Pick up the heavy weights!

Photo by Tindall Stephens

IF I COULD ONLY HAVE ONE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT:

Probably a set of dumbbells. The options are endless.

ALWAYS IN MY GYM BAG:

Deodorant and electrolytes.

MY FITNESS INSPIRATION:

The people who come to my classes are my inspiration. They show up no matter what’s going on. I can be having a rough day, and as soon as we all start working out together, things are so much better.

DREAM WORKOUT PARTNER:

At the moment, Dr. Stacy Simms. I would do whatever workout she told me to do!

GO-TO SNACK:

Coffee with protein.

DIET PHILOSOPHY:

Don’t exercise in a fasted state, especially women. Also, eat when you’re hungry and don’t eat when you’re not.

WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED:

The desire to stay strong, healthy, and independent in my old age.

NEWBIE ADVICE:

Everything is hard the first time you do it. Start slow, keep going, and don’t give up, even on those days when you’re sore. Consistency is what counts.

GOALS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD:

I want to stay strong and continue to fool everyone with my age! I’m not training for the perfect body. I’m training to be strong and independent when I’m 95.

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.