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.
ACCELERATE YOUR RECOVERY
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
• 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 IN
to Request a Tour and
To every client who has trusted us with your health, recovery, and wellness - thank you. Your support, encouragement, referrals, and trust in our team mean more to us than words can express. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to serve you.
At Be Still Health & Wellness Spa, our mission has always been to create a place where the body is restored, the mind is renewed, and the spirit is at peace. It is both our privilege and our purpose to serve this incredible community each and every day.
Whether you’ve visited us to recover, recharge, relieve pain, or simply invest in your well-being, we are honored to be part of your journey.
From our entire Be Still family, thank you for your trust and support. We look forward to serving you with excellence for many years to come.
KENDYLL MARIE
Is
your joint surgeon READY when you are?
Living with knee or hip pain changes everything — how you move, sleep, work, and spend time with family. Getting answers and relief shouldn’t take months. At OrthoSouth, our growing team of joint replacement specialists and advanced surgical technology quickly move patients from initial visit to treatment. At OrthoSouth, your surgeon is READY when you are. Less waiting. More living.
ORTHOPEDICS & SPINE 2026
OrthoSouth Germantown ASC has been named a Best Ambulatory Surgery Center by both Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report
DRIVING PLEASURE.
901-365-2584
www.ROADSHOWBMW.com
Committed to providing the highest quality care for women of all ages, from routine and preventive services to reproductive health.
Every class is more than a workout. It's a chance to let go of stress, build confidence, challenge yourself, and leave stronger than you arrived.
BEING A RUMBLE MEMBER HAS TAUGHT ME THE HARDEST PART IS WALKING THROUGH THE DOOR. ONCE I DID, EVERY CLASS REMINDED ME I’M CAPABLE OF MORE THAN I THOUGHT, AND THE COACHES, THE ENERGY, AND THE COMMUNITY KEEP ME COMING BACK.” – AMY GONG, RUMBLE MEMBER (650 CLASSES AND COUNTING)
The Well.
The Well Pilates | Pilates, Strength Training, Yoga. thewellpilates.com
The Well Pilates blends classical and contemporary Pilates with heated strength training, yoga, and recovery-focused classes to create a one-stop wellness experience unlike anything else in the Mid-South. Located in Southaven, just 30 minutes from Memphis, we're proud to serve clients across the region through our studio and free community pop-ups throughout the city.
In less than one year of business, we are honored to have been voted a Top 3 Pilates Studio in Memphis and recognized for Best Pilates Instructor, Health Influencer, and Female-Owned Business. Thank you for welcoming us into this community and allowing us to serve you through movement, wellness, and connection.
Voted Among Memphis' Best: Top 3 Pilates Studio, Best Pilates Instructor, Health Influencer & Female-Owned Business Finalist Use code FIRSTCLASS at checkout for your first class for just $5.
Founder Lexi Grisanti, 27, is incredibly grateful for the support of the Memphis community and looks forward to continuing The Well's mission for years to come. Follow us on Instagram @the.wellpilates for free events and pop-ups across the city, and visit thewellpilates.com to book your first class for just $5 with code FIRSTCLASS.
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.
9
Alicia Johnson | Contributing Writer
Alicia is a BSN-prepared registered nurse, homeschool mother of two, and fitness instructor. Her fitness routine includes strength training and running, and she is passionate about group fitness classes and the sense of community they develop. In her spare time, she enjoys running 5Ks with her daughter and spending time with the family’s horses and red lab, Camo.
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.
Serve Up a Win for Memphis Kids at the Boys & Girls Clubs Tennis Invitational
Whether you’re a seasoned tennis player, a pickleball enthusiast, or simply looking for a meaningful way to support local youth, the 27th Annual Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis Tennis Invitational offers the perfect opportunity to combine competition, community, and philanthropy.
Set for August 7-8, this long-standing Memphis tradition has grown into one of the Mid-South’s premier amateur tennis events, bringing together players of all skill levels while raising critical funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis. Since its inception in 1998, the tournament has generated more than $2.7 million to help provide safe places, caring mentors, and life-changing programs for thousands of young people across the Mid-South.
This year’s event includes something for everyone. The weekend kicks off Friday evening with a pickleball tournament before transitioning to tennis competition on Saturday morning. Players and supporters will wrap up the weekend with a celebration party on Saturday night featuring a ping-pong tournament, food, and fellowship. Whether you’re competing on the court or cheering from the sidelines, every registration and sponsorship helps create opportunities for local children.
While the competition is always spirited, the true purpose of the event extends well beyond the final score.
Funds raised support Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis, which serves more than 7,000 young people through Club locations across the city and the Juice Plus+ Technical Training Center. The organization provides programs focused on academic success, character development, healthy lifestyles, and career readiness, ensuring every child has access to opportunities that help them reach their full potential.
The tournament also arrives at an exciting time for Memphis tennis. With professional women’s tennis returning to the city this summer and renewed enthusiasm for racquet sports across the community, the Tennis Invitational gives local players another opportunity to celebrate the sport while making a lasting impact close to home.
Whether you’re a longtime tennis player, a recent discoverer of pickleball, or simply want to support one of Memphis’ most respected youth organizations, participating is about far more than wins and losses. It’s about investing in the next generation.
Registration options are available for tennis, pickleball, or both, with sponsorship opportunities for businesses and individuals who want to expand their impact. Every dollar raised helps ensure local children continue to have access to mentorship, educational support, and life-enriching experiences throughout the year.
If you’ve been looking for a fun way to stay active this summer while giving back to the community, this is a weekend worth putting on your calendar. Grab a partner, lace up your tennis shoes, and join hundreds of fellow Memphians who believe every child deserves a safe place to learn, grow, and thrive.
For registration and sponsorship information, visit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis Tennis Invitational page: Bgcm.org/events/tennis-invitational.
Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare will host the 4th Annual Healthier 901 Fest at Shelby Farms Park
Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare has announced the return of the 4th Annual Healthier 901 Fest, taking place on Saturday, September 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Shelby Farms Park. The free, family-friendly outdoor celebration is designed to inspire sustainable wellness through joyful movement, practical health education, and meaningful community connections.
Healthier 901 is a community-wide movement dedicated to helping Mid-Southerners build healthier lives through manageable lifestyle adjustments. Rather than focusing on perfection, the initiative encourages participants to discover everyday habits and support networks that make wellness easier to maintain over time.
This year’s festival features a dynamic lineup of activities categorized into core community experiences:
• MOVE YOUR BODY: Attendees can participate in a new 1-mile walk or timed 4K run, alongside energizing group workouts on the Main Lawn led by the YMCA and local fitness instructors. Activities are tailored for all ages and ability levels.
• DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW: The Find Your Fit Zone will host more than 20 local organizations and wellness vendors. Visitors can access free health screenings, check out live Kroger cooking demonstrations with Chef Ragan Oglesby-Phillips, and pick up health tips and event swag.
• CELEBRATE COMMUNITY: The Main Stage will feature a DJ, sponsor giveaways, and interactive activities throughout the day, all emceed by Kym Clark and Patrick Ellis of Action News 5.
• LE BONHEUR FAMILY ZONE: Designed specifically for children and families, this area offers hula hoops, face painting, youth exercises, inflatables, and educational games to keep kids active and engaged.
The festival serves as a gateway to the broader, year-round Healthier 901 movement. Mid-Southerners of all fitness levels can join the movement to access the free Healthier 901 app, partner discounts, and community events.
For more information about the event or to join the movement, visit Healthier901.com/Fest.
By Shlomit Ovadia
Memphis Welcomes a New Neighborhood Bike Repair Shop
Dos Gatos is a new bike repair and service shop located at 1535 Overton Park Avenue that offers good vibes and honest, quality service for the bicycling community.
The shop’s name means “two cats” in Spanish. It’s a fitting tribute to store owner and lifelong Memphian Robert Ellis’ two feline friends, Moose and Ama, though it also reflects his lifelong passion for working on and riding bikes.
At just three years old, Robert managed to remove his own training wheels and ride independently of them while his dad’s head was turned. Since then, his skills at repairing bikes only continued to grow. “It was up to us to keep our bikes rideable as kids,” he explains of riding BMX bikes with his friends, back when they did not have access to a local repair shop.
Robert maintains his no-fuss attitude at his modest storefront, where he sells refurbished bikes at affordable prices and offers friendly neighborhood services that don’t break the bank. “We wanted to have a place where everyone felt welcome, and there were no barriers to the sport,” he says.
Tune-ups, suspension services, component installation, and other standard repairs are handled by his professionally trained team, all with a community focus at the center of their work.
“Some of my favorite parts of bicycling are the camaraderie and friendship it brings. Especially with mountain biking, you can overcome those fears of big jumps and other feats that feel impossible among friends.”
In addition to his love for mountain biking at places like Mountain Bike Park, Robert also enjoys taking his road and gravel bikes around the city of Memphis and occasionally participating in evening laps with the Memphis Social Bicycle Club that rides from Midtown to Downtown.
“It’s been great to see Memphis’ cycling infrastructure improve over the years, and the cycling community has grown immensely,” he adds.
Dos Gatos celebrated its grand opening on July 9, surrounded by neighbors and friends who came out to show their support. With the shop setting its roots in Memphis, Robert looks forward to helping riders of all ages keep their bikes rolling.
Photo by Josh Clark
By Pallavi Khanna, MD, OB/GYN, FACOG
It’s possible to feel great during menopause!
Menopause can be a challenging stage of life.
Physically, dropping estrogen levels bring problems like hot flashes, weight gain, and vaginal discomfort. At the same time, many women are at a point in life where they’re dealing with job stress, aging parents, growing kids, etc. All of that makes self-care more important than ever!
As a Certified Menopause Practitioner, I have specialized training to help women navigate their health as they get older.
Too many women are told they “just have to live with” their menopause concerns. This can lead them down the path of untested quick fixes, like DIY hormone therapy, viral hacks for symptom relief, and unproven supplements.
The safest, most effective path to symptom relief and better overall health is by partnering with a health care professional.
That is especially true with hormone-based products.
Hormone therapy can help with concerns like hot flashes, vaginal discomfort, bone health, and more — but it’s important to use it under the care of a physician.
Creams that are available without a prescription may contain both progesterone and estrogen, but only estrogen is absorbed through the skin, leaving patients without the progesterone they need to protect against uterine cancer.
Hormone therapy pellets are not well regulated, so you don’t know how much medicine you’re getting and whether it’s the proper dose.
When I prescribe hormone therapy, it’s based on a careful discussion of your symptoms, goals, risk factors, age, preexisting conditions, etc.
For example, women with undiagnosed bleeding, breast cancer or a history of breast cancer, active DVT or pulmonary embolism, and liver disease, shouldn’t use hormone therapy. There are also considerations around timing, dose, duration, and mode of delivery.
You should always be monitored by a health care provider when using hormone therapy. You’ll need to be vigilant about screening for breast cancer and heart and liver issues, and your doctor can help address any side effects.
I can also provide other options based on your specific concerns.
For hot flashes, there are two new prescription medications that treat temperature receptors in the brain. We can talk about non-medication options like avoiding triggers, maintaining a healthy weight through diet and regular exercise, paced breathing and meditation, and more.
For sleep problems, exercise, meditation, and improving sleep hygiene by limiting screens in the evening, sticking to a consistent schedule, and keeping your bedroom cool and dark can help. If that doesn’t work, I can connect you with a sleep specialist.
No topic is too personal. I support patients with vaginal discomfort, sexual dysfunction, anxiety and depression, and more.
I also help patients manage their risk for serious illness.
Rates of heart disease, certain types of cancer, osteoporosis, and other conditions increase during menopause, so I talk to patients about their personal risk, lifestyle changes that support their health, and the screening they need to detect problems early.
Menopause can be challenging, but it’s also a time when many women feel empowered to take charge of their health.
I’m here to help with the information, treatment options, and support you need!
Pallavi Khanna, MD, OB/GYN, FACOG, sees patients in Regional One Health’s Menopause Care Clinic at the East Campus, 6555 Quince Road. For appointments, call 901.515.3100.
Strong at Every Age How Women Can Help Combat Muscle Loss
Aging is inevitable, but losing muscle and mobility doesn’t have to be. For many women, maintaining strength, independence, energy, and mobility are top priorities as they get older, especially while juggling work, caregiving, friends, hobbies, and an active lifestyle.
In fact, 58% of women in the United States are actively focused on staying healthy as they age, according to a recent survey. However, 73% of respondents weren’t aware of sarcopenia, or age-related muscle loss. According to the “International Journal of Women’s Health,” muscle loss often begins between ages 3035, with women losing 3-8% of muscle mass per decade, increasing to 5-10% per decade after age 60.
Hormonal changes, decreased activity, stress, poor sleep, and inadequate nutrition all contribute to muscle decline, which can also hurt balance, bone health, metabolism, posture, and everyday mobility.
Yet despite 70% of women reporting concern about muscle loss, 54% are unsure how to protect their muscle health.
“Women want to stay strong, active, and independent as they age, but many are getting mixed messages about what actually supports long-term muscle health,” said Dr. Tania Elliott, a dual board-certified physician in internal medicine. “A lot of women are already making healthy choices like walking and staying active, which is a great start. But maintaining muscle health requires a more complete approach — one that starts earlier than most women think, in your 30s.”
Prioritize Strength Training
Many women cite barriers like lack of time (15%), feeling overwhelmed (23%), or not enjoying exercise (23%). The key is finding sustainable habits. While walking and cardio support heart health — something 58% of respondents already prioritize — strength training is one of the most effective ways to preserve and build muscle with age. Still, just 34% of women report doing strength or resistance training.
You don’t need an intense regimen. Aiming for at least two strength-focused workouts a week — lifting weights, using resistance bands, weight-bearing yoga, or bodyweight moves like squats and pushups — targeting major muscle groups can help maintain muscle health. The goal is to fatigue muscles during sets so they build.
Fuel Muscles with Proper Nutrition
Exercise is only part of the equation. Muscles need proper nutrition to recover and stay strong. Protein plays a critical role in maintaining muscle mass as women age. High-quality protein throughout the day — eggs, Greek yogurt, fish, lean meats, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds — supports muscle repair and strength.
Support Healthy Aging with Supplements
Some women may also consider supplements that support healthy aging and energy production, including CoQ10, a naturally occurring antioxidant that helps cells produce energy. Research published in “The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging” shows CoQ10 may help manage sarcopenia by improving mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress, since muscles require significant energy to function.
CoQ10 supplements, paired with nutrients like vitamins D3 and K2, can support heart health, muscles, nerve function, and daily energy in an easy-to-take format.
Practice Healthy Habits
Muscle health depends on more than workouts. Sleep, stress management, and daily movement matter, too. Prioritizing quality sleep, stretching, staying hydrated, reducing sedentary time, and practicing stress-relief techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing all support healthy aging and muscle maintenance.
The earlier women prioritize muscle health, the better positioned they’ll be to maintain strength and mobility as they age.
CELEBRATING THE BEST IN HEALTH & FITNESS
Welcome to the 2026 Memphis Health + Fitness Readers’ Choice Awards!
Each year, our readers cast thousands of votes to celebrate the businesses, professionals, and organizations that make healthy living in the Mid-South easier and more rewarding — from physicians and fitness centers to wellness providers and healthy restaurants.
This year’s winners have earned that recognition through outstanding service and a genuine commitment to helping others live healthier lives.
Congratulations to all of this year’s winners. And to our readers — thank you for voting and for supporting the local businesses that make our city healthier every day.
Let’s celebrate the best of Memphis Health and Fitness!
BEST GYM
ATC Fitness
Lakeland Health + Fitness
KROC Memphis
BEST BOOT CAMP
Burn Boot Camp
GRIT Group Fitness
East Memphis Athletic Club (EMAC)
BEST BOUTIQUE STUDIO
mind/body HAUS
Dose Hot Pilates & Yoga
GRIT Group Fitness
BEST CROSSFIT GYM
CrossFit Triad
Higher Memphis
Deep River Fit
BEST YOGA STUDIO
mind/body HAUS
Dose Hot Pilates & Yoga
Hot Yoga Plus / SANA Yoga
BEST PILATES STUDIO
Dose Hot Pilates & Yoga
mind/body HAUS
The Well Pilates
BEST BOXING/MMA GYM
Rumble Boxing
Law School MMA
Memphis Judo & Jiu-Jitsu
BEST
GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR
Peterson Wellford, CycleBar and mind/body HAUS
Jordan Booth, Dose Hot Pilates & Yoga and mind/body HAUS
Gina Gomez, Dose Hot Pilates & Yoga and SANA Yoga
BEST PILATES
INSTRUCTOR
Bekah Kingsley, mind/body HAUS
Jordan Booth, Dose Hot Pilates & Yoga and mind/body HAUS
Lexi Grisanti, The Well Pilates / Margaret Shaw, SANA Yoga
BEST YOGA
INSTRUCTOR
Victoria Wood, Dose Hot Pilates & Yoga and mind/body HAUS
Dr. Dave Kellenberger, Chiropractic Memphis Health & Wellness
Dr. Matt Hayden, Chiropractic Memphis Downtown
BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST
Rachel Gard, LMT, Wolf River Massage Therapy
Twila Reed, LMT, The Spa Midtown
Shawn Coopwood, LMT, The Lindsey Group Massage Professionals
BEST MENTAL HEALTH
Savannah Burton, LPC-MHSP-S, PMH-C
My Memphis Therapist Counseling and Consulting, LLC
The Retreat House Memphis
Clover Counseling Services
BEST MED SPA
Glo Medical Aesthetics
De La Belle Wellness & Spa
The Spa Midtown
BEST INJECTOR
Lisa Street, MSN, APRN, NP-C
Glo Medical Aesthetics
Renee Pinlac, MSN/FNP
De La Belle Wellness & Spa
Angela Bradley, BSN, RN
The Spa Midtown
Lisa Street MSN, APRN, NP-C
BEST AESTHETICIAN
Leigh Downing, Wallace Plastic Surgery Group
Bailey Rosenberg, Glo Medical Aesthetics
Sydney Kilpatrick, De La Belle Wellness & Spa
BEST DERMATOLOGIST
Alan Levy, MD, Levy Dermatology
Virginia Koubek, MD, UTHSC
Emily Overholser, MD, Memphis Dermatology Clinic
BEST DENTIST
Jodi Rump, DDS, Main Street Dental
Kaleb Page, DDS, Walnut Grove Dental Group
Todd Bell, DDS, Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
BEST OBGYN
Alicia Wright, MD, MOGA
Kyle Martin, MD, Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN
Laura Himel, MD, UTHSC
BEST FEMALE OWNED BUSINESS
GRIT Group Fitness
SANA Yoga
The Well Pilates
KINGSLEY
By
MEET THE WINNER
believes fitness should be effective and enjoyable. After starting her career as a personal trainer during COVID, she built a loyal following through one-onone coaching and small-group strengthtraining sessions held at her home. As her client base grew, her classes expanded to larger group workouts that combined expert coaching with an energetic
A longtime fan of hot Pilates, Bekah found herself searching for a new fitness home as a student after her favorite studio closed. Realizing she could no longer find the high-energy hot Pilates class she was looking for, she reached out to mind/body HAUS to ask if she could teach it. Soon enough, Bekah had found a new home studio, both to practice and to teach, blending her background in strength training with the breathwork and movement principles of Pilates to create classes that are uniquely
HER MISSION
Bekah’s goal extends beyond helping clients become stronger; she wants them to leave every workout feeling more confident in themselves. Whether she’s coaching a private client or leading a packed Pilates class, she intentionally teaches the “why” behind every movement. Rather than simply leading exercises, she explains which muscle groups are being trained, how workouts are structured, and how consistent training
Her classes follow organized muscle-group splits, allowing regular members to progressively build strength while understanding how each workout fits into a larger plan. “I want people to feel confident in their workouts,” she says. “When they build confidence in the studio, that confidence carries into every other
Zoe Harrison / Photo by Tindall Stephens
Perhaps her favorite moments are watching clients accomplish something they once thought was impossible, whether that’s lifting heavier weights for the first time, mastering a new movement, or simply realizing how much stronger they’ve become.
WHAT SETS HER APART
Anyone who has attended Bekah’s classes quickly learns that they are anything but quiet. Her class style combines the principles of Pilates with the energy of a high-intensity strength workout. Music is loud, the atmosphere is upbeat, and students are encouraged to challenge themselves while having fun along the way. “It’s a party,” she laughs. Bekah leans into high-energy instruction that keeps participants engaged without sacrificing proper technique or breathwork. The workouts are challenging yet approachable, with modifications available so participants of different fitness levels can succeed together. Bekah spends time throughout each session scanning her often packed classes, where she knows each student by name, and correcting form or offering modifications to ensure everyone gets the coaching they need at their level.
“My classes are definitely one flavor of Pilates,” Kingsley says. “That’s what I love about being part of mind/body HAUS. Every
instructor brings something different, so students can find exactly what they need that day,” she says.
EXPERT ADVICE
Bekah encourages people to find an exercise style they genuinely enjoy while also choosing an environment that pushes them to grow. She says, “Fitness doesn’t stop when class ends.” Pairing regular movement with a diet centered around whole, nutritious foods creates the strongest foundation for long-term health. The key is finding a routine you’ll actually stick with and enjoy!
LOOKING FORWARD
As demand for her classes continues to grow, Bekah always appreciates the opportunity for the class schedules at mind/body HAUS to expand or adjust based on her students’ needs.
She’s also always welcoming new personal training clients and looks forward to helping even more Memphians discover that fitness can be both challenging and fun.
IG: @bekahgkingsley, @mindbodyhaus
Anatomy-Based Training Yoga Alliance Approved Expert Mentorship Unlimited HAUS Yoga Throughout Training
Aug. 22-23 & 29-30 Sept. 18-20 Oct. 2-4 • 17-18 • 30- Nov. 1 Nov. 6-8 Training
by August 15.
to learn
+
By
WILL & BRITTANY
OLIVER
Best CrossFit Gym: Triad Strength & Conditioning
MEET THE WINNER
For Will and Brittany Oliver, CrossFit has always been about more than fitness. As former college athletes, the couple discovered CrossFit in 2017, initially drawn to its competitive nature and community.
Today, the Olivers are the owners of Triad Strength & Conditioning (formerly CrossFit Triad), a gym that has served the Memphis community for more than a decade. They have owned the gym for just over a year, but they were members long before taking over. Will also coached several classes each week, giving the couple a unique perspective on what makes Triad special.
THEIR MISSION
The gym’s foundation lies in coach-led CrossFit classes, while HYROX training and Olympic weightlifting offer additional opportunities for members to pursue their fitness goals. All workouts are scalable, allowing athletes of any age, experience level, and ability to train safely and effectively. Whether stepping into a gym for the first time or preparing for a CrossFit competition or HYROX race, the focus is always on building lifelong health through expert coaching and individualized support.
“People often think CrossFit is only for extreme athletes, but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” says Will. “At its core, CrossFit prepares individuals for the unknown, building their strength, endurance, mobility, and confidence to handle whatever life throws their way. Life doesn’t present the same challenge every day, so our training shouldn’t either. CrossFit uses constantly varied, functional movements because real life demands a broad range of physical abilities, not just excellence in one area.”
Zoe Harrison / Photo by Will Coleman
WHAT SETS THEM APART
Having experienced Triad as members before becoming owners has influenced nearly every decision the Olivers have made. They understood firsthand what members valued most and were determined to preserve the welcoming culture that made the gym feel like home.
They have made significant investments in coach development, prioritized transparency, and continually seek ways to improve the member experience. From the moment a new athlete enters the facility, coaches take time to learn about their fitness background, discuss any injuries or limitations, explain the workout, and tailor each session to meet their individual needs.
EXPERT ADVICE
The Olivers encourage people to stop comparing their fitness journeys to those of others.
“Comparison is the thief of joy,” says Will. “The only meaningful comparison is between who you are today and who you were yesterday.”
They believe consistency, not perfection, is the true key to lasting health. Each workout, every small improvement, and every decision to keep showing up helps to build confidence over time. Those seemingly small victories eventually become life-changing. “A win is a win” is their mantra.
LOOKING FORWARD
Triad Strength & Conditioning continues to grow its offerings for the Memphis community. This summer, the gym successfully launched a CrossFit Kids program that combines age-appropriate fitness with games and skill development to help children build strength, coordination, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for movement.
The gym is also expanding its HYROX training program as members prepare for the HYROX race in Nashville this December. Whether someone is training for competition or simply looking for a supportive place to improve their health, the Olivers hope Triad remains a place where everyone feels welcome.
Triad-sc.com / IG & FB: @CrossFitTriad
DALE SANFORD
Best Running Coach
By Zoe Harrison / Photo by Tindall Stephens
MEET THE WINNER
For over 20 years, Dale Sanford has dedicated his career to helping athletes reach their full potential. As co-founder and head coach of Build Peak Compete (BPC) Performance Coaching, Dale works with runners, cyclists, and triathletes nationwide and beyond to help them train smarter, perform better, and enjoy the sports they love.
A lifelong athlete, Dale knew early on that he wanted a career in sports performance. Growing up around renowned sports performance coach Chip Smith helped inspire that path, though it wasn’t until his twenties that he realized his true passion was coaching endurance athletes. Today, Dale specializes in helping “timecrunched” athletes maximize every minute of training while building habits that support long-term health and performance.
THEIR MISSION
At BPC Performance Coaching, success is defined by more than just the results on race day. While personalized training plans are an important part of the process, Dale and the BPC team believe true performance comes from addressing every factor that influences an athlete’s success.
That includes nutrition, hydration, recovery, equipment setup, technical skill development, race strategy, and mental preparation. Rather than focusing on one piece of the puzzle, BPC helps athletes build a complete system for sustainable improvement. Although the coaching team works with highly competitive athletes, Dale says many of their clients simply want to become healthier, age well, and continually improve. “They may not think they’re competitive,” he says, “but they’re competitive with themselves.”
WHAT SETS THEM APART
Dale believes the best coaching relationships are built on genuine investment in each athlete as a person, not just a performer. BPC supports athletes of
all levels, from first-time 5K runners to Ironman competitors, by tailoring training plans to their unique goals, experience, and lifestyles.
The team also places a strong emphasis on making endurance sports sustainable for the long haul. While race goals are exciting, Dale is most passionate about helping athletes fall in love with the training process itself. “If you enjoy the training and stay consistent,” he says, “the results are going to come.”
EXPERT ADVICE
When it comes to improving performance, Dale encourages athletes to focus on consistency before anything else. By building a routine that athletes can realistically maintain, they’re far more likely to see lasting improvements than by chasing the hardest workouts. He also encourages athletes to immerse themselves in the local endurance community. “If you’re really looking to take your sport performance to the next level, start ingraining yourself in the local endurance community,” he says. “It could be a life changer.”
LOOKING FORWARD
With athletes competing in races nearly every weekend, there’s never a slow season at BPC Performance Coaching. Dale and the team continue to support runners, cyclists, and triathletes of every level as they pursue personal bests, tackle new challenges, and discover what’s possible through smart, sustainable training.
For anyone unsure where to begin, Dale encourages them to simply reach out. Whether it’s finding the right training plan or connecting with the right local group, BPC is always happy to help athletes take the first step.
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DR. ALICIA WRIGHT
By
MEET THE WINNER
Dr. Alicia Wright is a native Memphian, wife, mother of three, and OB/GYN who enjoys staying active, traveling, trying new restaurants, and playing tennis. Professionally, she has the privilege of caring for women through every stage of life, from pediatric gynecology to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause.
“What I love most about my specialty is that it allows me to build long-term relationships with patients and walk alongside them during some of the most meaningful and vulnerable moments they’ll experience,” she says.
HER MISSION
Dr. Wright believes women deserve to be active participants in their healthcare. “The best care isn’t about simply being told what to do,” she says. “It’s about understanding your body and your options and making decisions together with your physician.”
She is especially passionate about helping women understand they don’t have to “just live with” symptoms like pelvic pain, heavy periods, incontinence, or infertility. By educating patients about the available treatment options, she hopes they feel informed, empowered, and confident in choosing the path that’s right for them. More than anything, she wants every patient to leave her office feeling empowered, not intimidated.
WHAT SETS HER APART
Although Dr. Wright is quick to acknowledge the outstanding community of OB/GYN physicians in Memphis, she strives to create a calm, judgment-free environment where every patient feels genuinely heard and understood. “My goal is to provide evidence-based care while recognizing that every woman has different values, goals, and experiences,” she says.
Zoe Harrison / Photo by Tindall Stephens
She is especially passionate about trauma-informed care and helping patients who have had difficult medical experiences in the past feel safe again. “I believe compassion is just as important as clinical expertise.” Dr. Wright takes time to listen carefully, answer questions thoroughly, and explain recommendations in a way that makes sense. She hopes that every patient leaves feeling respected, informed, reassured, and confident in managing their healthcare.
EXPERT ADVICE
“Don’t wait until something feels serious to prioritize your health,” she says. Further, Dr. Wright encourages women to invest in the habits that have the greatest long-term impact: preventive care, daily movement, strength training, adequate sleep, good nutrition, and stress management. “Small, consistent habits are more effective than dramatic changes,” she says.
LOOKING FORWARD
Dr. Wright continues to expand her expertise across several areas of women’s health. She has become especially passionate about understanding how the pelvic floor functions during pregnancy and using that knowledge to help optimize labor, improve vaginal delivery rates, and support better outcomes for both mothers and babies.
Pediatric gynecologic care has also become a special interest, and she looks forward to continuing collaborations with local pediatricians and St. Jude. Looking ahead, she plans to further expand her knowledge in perimenopause, hormone therapy, and whole-person wellness.
Being recognized as Memphis Health & Fitness’ Best OB/GYN is an honor she doesn’t take lightly. “I’m so grateful to be part of such an amazing community and to care for women and families throughout Memphis,” she says. “It’s a privilege I never take for granted.”
By
MEET THE WINNER
Groovy Gratitude is a neighborhood café rooted in intention, flavor, and community, offering smoothies, bowls, and drinks that make wellness feel accessible, joyful, and authentic. Alicia Dixon and Marquis White, founders of Groovy Gratitude through their Dixon-White Restaurant Group, have built their hospitality brands around the belief that food and beverage should do more than satisfy hunger; they should create opportunities for healthier, more connected communities.
Drawing on backgrounds in healthcare, operations, and community work, Alicia and Marquis created a space where wellness feels approachable, joyful, and deeply rooted in Memphis culture.
THEIR MISSION
Groovy Gratitude was built on the belief that wellness should be accessible to everyone, not reserved for a select few. “Wellness is not a luxury; it’s a right,” the founders agree. “There’s a common assumption that wellness spaces are for a certain type of person, income level, and certain aesthetic or lifestyle. When you walk through our doors, you’re not expected to be on a wellness journey already. You’re just invited to start one, right where you are, over a smoothie, a good playlist, and a conversation with someone who genuinely cares.”
Every aspect of the café has been intentionally designed to make people feel welcome, whether they’re lifelong wellness enthusiasts or trying their first smoothie. From the carefully crafted menu to the music playing throughout the space, every detail is meant to lower barriers and invite people to begin their wellness journey exactly where they are.
WHAT SETS THEM APART
While many businesses focus on selling products, Groovy Gratitude focuses on creating experiences. Rather than separating food from culture or wellness from community, they’ve intentionally
Zoe Harrison / Photo by Josh Clark
woven the two together. Community block parties, wellness activations, DJ-led experiences, partnerships, and neighborhood events are central to the brand’s mission.
Their organic growth reflects their approach; without relying on paid advertising, Groovy Gratitude has cultivated a loyal following built through word of mouth, exceptional hospitality, and meaningful connections with guests.
“We’re not chasing a trend,” they say. “We’re building a platform rooted in Memphis, designed for community, and built to last.”
EXPERT ADVICE
The founders encourage people to stop waiting for the perfect time to prioritize their health.
“Start where you are,” they say. “Not where you think you should be, but where you actually are.” Alicia and Marquis agree that wellness doesn’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul. Sometimes it’s a quiet moment of gratitude before the day begins, a walk to clear your mind, a nourishing meal, or spending time with people who pour into you. Their philosophy is that wellness looks different for everyone, and every positive step counts.
LOOKING FORWARD
Groovy Gratitude continues to expand its impact well beyond the café walls. This year, the team is expanding its lineup of community-centered wellness events, including Rhythm of Life during Minority Health Month and Summer SOULstice, a celebration of Black Music Month, along with new programming and experiences they’re developing for their community across the city.
The founders are also strengthening partnerships throughout Memphis while continuing to establish Groovy Gratitude as a destination where wellness and community naturally intersect. Although growing a small business comes with its challenges, Alicia and Marquis remain optimistic about what’s ahead. “The community has shown up for us in ways that continue to inspire everything we do,” they say. “The best is truly yet to come.”
For Leigh Downing, skincare is deeply personal. Leigh is a medical aesthetician with over 12 years of experience, specializing in laser treatments, pigment correction, and vascular treatments at Wallace Plastic Surgery Group. However, her passion for helping others began long before her career.
At 16, Leigh was diagnosed with lupus and experienced significant skin complications related to the disease. Throughout her healing journey, several aestheticians helped restore her skin health and confidence. Their compassion inspired her to pursue a career where she could offer that same experience to others.
Today, she combines years of clinical experience from both plastic surgery and dermatology with a genuine understanding of what it feels like to be self-conscious about your skin.
HER MISSION
Her goal as an aesthetician is to help every patient leave feeling more confident than when they arrived.
She believes aesthetic treatments aren’t just for correcting visible concerns but for investing in long-term skin health. Whether someone is addressing acne scars, pigmentation, or blood vessels, or just wants to maintain already healthy skin, she develops personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s goals.
Her consultations focus on both immediate concerns and longer-term skin wellness, helping patients understand how professional treatments, home care, and lifestyle habits work together to achieve lasting results.
WHAT SETS HER APART
Leigh believes her own experience with chronic illness gives her a unique perspective when caring for patients. Because she’s personally experienced the emotional impact of skin concerns, she
Photo by Tindall Stephens
approaches every consultation with empathy, taking time to understand not only what patients want to improve but also how they want to feel.
Her expertise in laser technology also distinguishes her practice. After more than a decade specializing in advanced laser treatments, she continues to pursue ongoing education to refine her techniques and stay current with the latest innovations in aesthetic medicine.
EXPERT ADVICE
Leigh reminds her patients that healthy skin starts with more than what you apply to the surface. She encourages patients to think about skincare holistically by supporting their bodies through nutrition, movement, and healthy habits that promote lymphatic drainage and overall wellness. Some of her personal favorites include Pilates, dry brushing, and eating nutrient-rich foods that support healthy skin from the inside out.
She also reminds people that professional skincare is more accessible than many realize. “You don’t have to have an issue to take care of your skin,” she says. “There are options for everyone.”
LOOKING FORWARD
Later this year, Leigh will begin training other providers on the advanced laser technologies she has become so passionate about. She’s excited to share the techniques and knowledge she’s developed throughout her career while helping elevate the quality of laser treatments for patients beyond her own treatment room.
Outside of work, Leigh enjoys supporting fellow local businesses alongside her husband, Harrison Downing, owner of Hard Times Deli and Gussied Up. Together, they’re raising two young sons, Hudson and Jack, who she says inspire the dedication and passion she brings to her career every day.
What started as a shared vision among three friends has grown into one of Memphis’ most recognizable fitness communities. Co-founders Jarius Powers, Jeremy Jones, and Darryl Sims launched 901 Run Club with a mission to create a healthier, more connected city.
Each founder brought a unique perspective to the organization. Jarius wanted to surround himself with goaloriented people and expand his network. Jeremy envisioned a community that encouraged people to chase ambitious goals while fostering a positive, winning culture. Darryl was driven by a desire to bring health, wellness, and connection to Memphis while inspiring the next generation. Together, they’ve built a club that has become known for its welcoming atmosphere, diverse membership, and unmistakable Memphis pride.
THEIR MISSION
While running may bring people together, the founders say it’s only the beginning. “Running is just the skeleton key that unlocks what 901 Run Club truly is,” says Jarius. “It’s about creating a healthier, more connected Memphis.” Their motto captures the club’s philosophy: “Every Pace. Every Face.” Everyone has a place, whether they are experienced marathoners or joining for the very first time.
The founders believe the one thing every member has in common is a desire to become better. By creating an environment where people support one another instead of competing against each other, they’ve built a culture where friendships, accountability, and personal growth naturally follow.
WHAT SETS THEM APART
One of 901 Run Club’s greatest strengths is its ability to remove the intimidation often associated with running. Members
of every pace, background, and experience level are welcomed and encouraged from day one. The founders credit much of the club’s success to teamwork. Although each brings different strengths to the organization, they operate with one shared vision.
“Our unity is what makes us different,” says Darryl. “Three brains, one identity.” That collaborative mindset has allowed the club to dream big from the beginning. Even before gaining widespread recognition, the founders believed they could build something that would positively impact Memphis, and today, they continue to expand that vision while proudly representing the city at races across the country.
EXPERT ADVICE
“Consistency is key,” says Jarius. “If you can show up to run consistently, you can show up anywhere in life.”
Jeremy reminds runners that setbacks are a natural part of every success story. “Failure is a part of winning,” he says. “Show me someone who’s never failed, and I’ll show you someone who’s never truly won.”
And for anyone nervous about attending for the first time, Darryl has one recommendation: “Bring a friend! Trying something new can be intimidating, but having someone beside you makes it that much easier.”
LOOKING FORWARD
This fall promises to be an exciting season for 901 Run Club. The organization will celebrate its third anniversary while continuing its partnership with Peer Power and representing Memphis at the Around the Crown 10K in Charlotte. No matter how much the club grows, the founders remain committed to helping people discover that running is for everyone.
901runclub.com / IG: @901runclub
Follow the founders:
Jarius Powers: @jariuspowers
Jeremy Jones: @livingwithjeremy
Darryl Sims: @dsims_
By Zoe Harrison
MEET THE WINNER
For more than two decades, Amanda Ling has dedicated her career to helping people live healthier, stronger lives. A Doctor of Physical Therapy, Functional Nutritionist, and Women’s Health Coach, Amanda and her husband have owned Peak Potential Physiotherapy & Wellness in Collierville and East Memphis for the past 10 years. Together, they co-authored “Heal, Optimize, Thrive: An Integrative System to Recover Energy, Gain Strength and Age with Vitality Even After Injury”.
Drawing from experience spanning the NICU to hospice care, Amanda has witnessed what it takes to age with vitality and the challenges that can lead to declining health and independence. Her experiences inspired her to help adults, particularly women in midlife, take a proactive approach to their health before illness or injury occurs.
HER MISSION
At Peak Potential Physiotherapy & Wellness, the focus goes beyond treating symptoms. Amanda and her team take a whole-body approach to health, helping clients optimize movement, nutrition, metabolism, hormone health, gut health, and overall wellness.
Amanda is especially passionate about helping women confidently navigate the challenges of midlife. “So many people I work with have felt mediocre for so long that they have no idea how amazing they can feel,” she says. Her goal is to help women regain energy, move without pain, and build the strength needed to thrive for decades to come.
WHAT SETS HER APART
Amanda believes that prevention is essential for a long and healthy life. Instead of waiting for injuries or illnesses to occur, her philosophy focuses on optimizing health before issues arise. She helps clients gain a better understanding of their bodies through comprehensive
Instead of addressing a single symptom, Peak Potential Physiotherapy & Wellness evaluates how the entire body is functioning. By connecting the dots between multiple concerns, Amanda helps clients create lasting solutions that improve their quality of life and long-term health.
Many services are offered in person, while nutrition coaching and functional lab consultations can be conducted virtually, allowing clients nationwide to benefit from her expertise.
EXPERT ADVICE
“You don’t have to wait for an injury or illness to knock you down to get help,” Amanda says. “Preventing chronic disease, maximizing strength and power, and supporting long-term health and movement are the keys to longevity. The earlier you begin, the sooner you can start enjoying life again.”
She encourages individuals of all ages to learn as much as possible about their health so they can make informed decisions that support optimal performance and healthy aging.
LOOKING FORWARD
This fall, Ling is launching a new virtual group program designed specifically for women experiencing joint pain, stiffness, muscle aches, and slow recovery during perimenopause and beyond. Built around the “Heal, Optimize, Thrive” framework, the program will help participants restore comfortable movement, rebuild strength, and confidently navigate the changes that come with midlife.
Follow Amanda Ling on social media for wellness education, coaching resources, and updates on upcoming programs.
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SAVANNAH BURTON
Best Mental Health Practice: My Memphis Therapist
By Zoe Harrison
MEET THE WINNER
For over 15 years, Savannah Burton has helped Memphians navigate life’s challenges with compassion, insight, and practical tools for growth. A native Memphian, licensed mental health therapist, business owner, and mother of two boys, Savannah founded My Memphis Therapist with a vision of creating a counseling practice that puts both clients and clinicians first.
She launched the practice at age 34 after realizing she wanted a career that would allow her to remain present for her family while continuing the work she loved. At the same time, she envisioned a different kind of therapy practice, one where therapists could thrive without rigid corporate expectations and clients would feel like individuals rather than just another appointment on the schedule.
THEIR MISSION
At My Memphis Therapist, the mission is to provide exceptional, accessible mental health care in a warm, welcoming environment where every client feels seen, supported, and valued.
One of Savannah’s strongest commitments has been accepting insurance, despite the challenges it can present for private practices. She believes quality mental health care should be accessible to the Memphis community and wants clients to be able to use the insurance benefits they’ve worked hard to earn.
Burton is especially passionate about helping women reduce anxiety, break free from people-pleasing patterns, establish healthy boundaries, and become more confident, authentic versions of themselves. Through evidence-based therapy, clients gain insight into the experiences that have shaped them while developing practical skills for lasting emotional wellness.
WHAT SETS THEM APART
My Memphis Therapist offers what Savannah describes as a boutique therapy experience, in which patients can receive highly personalized care from skilled clinicians in a comfortable, inviting setting. Every detail of the office was intentionally designed to help clients feel relaxed from the moment they arrive. Savannah believes healing happens best when people feel safe enough to share their stories.
For new patients, the initial assessment includes many questions about a client’s history, relationships, and current concerns, aimed at understanding the whole person and creating a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. “Our hope is that every person who walks through our doors feels seen, valued, and supported,” Savannah says.
EXPERT ADVICE
Savannah encourages people not to wait until they’re overwhelmed before seeking help. “Therapy isn’t just for surviving difficult seasons,” she says. “It’s also a place to grow, gain insight, and become more intentional about the life you want to create.”
Some of the most meaningful personal growth, she explains, happens when people aren’t in crisis but instead have the space to better understand themselves and build healthier patterns for the future.
LOOKING FORWARD
This spring, My Memphis Therapist launched its Mothers of Young Children Group, led by Perinatal Mental Health Certified clinician Hailey Mills. Designed for mothers of children ages 0 to 5, the group quickly became a supportive space where moms could connect, share experiences, and realize they weren’t alone in the challenges of early parenthood.
Following its successful debut, the group will return this fall as Savannah and her team continue expanding opportunities for meaningful connection and support within the Memphis community.
RACHEL GARD, LMT
Best Massage Therapist
By
MEET THE WINNER
For the past decade, Rachel Gard has dedicated her career to helping people move better, hurt less, and get back to doing what they love. A licensed massage therapist and owner of Wolf River Massage Therapy in Collierville, Gard specializes in pain relief for active lifestyles, from athletes to anyone looking to improve how they feel and function each day.
Rachel has built a reputation for combining advanced therapeutic techniques with compassionate, individualized care. Her specialties include deep tissue massage, Ashiatsu, Table Thai massage, and cupping therapy, all rooted in a desire to help people find lasting relief from pain.
HER MISSION
Rachel believes massage therapy is about much more than relaxation. Her goal is to help clients regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life. Whether someone is recovering from strenuous activity, managing chronic pain, or dealing with the physical demands of everyday life, every treatment is tailored to their unique needs.
Rachel also emphasizes the importance of understanding how emotional and mental stress can influence physical tension and discomfort. By addressing both the body and the individual behind it, she strives to help clients move more comfortably and confidently long after they leave the treatment room.
WHAT SETS HER APART
While Rachel is known for her deep tissue expertise, she believes what truly distinguishes her practice is the level of attention she gives every client. Although new patients complete an intake form before their appointment, she personally reviews every detail with them again to ensure she fully understands their health history, concerns, and goals before treatment begins.
Zoe Harrison / Photo by Tindall Stephens
She also places great importance on creating a peaceful environment where clients can fully relax and focus on healing.
Rachel emphasizes the importance of the proper education and training required for experts in her field. Behind every treatment is years of study, hands-on experience, and a commitment to continually refining techniques that help clients achieve meaningful pain relief.
EXPERT ADVICE
One lesson Gard has learned from her clients is that movement remains essential, even when it’s difficult. She recalls the words of one longtime client living with chronic pain after two hip replacement surgeries: “Moving still hurts, but it’s necessary to keep moving if I want to be mobile and be around my grandchildren.” For Rachel, this perspective perfectly captures the goal of massage therapy: helping people continue doing the things that matter most in their lives.
LOOKING FORWARD
Rachel plans to continue expanding the services offered at Wolf River Massage Therapy. She hopes to complete prenatal massage training in the near future while gradually growing her team by adding additional licensed massage therapists.
Her long-term vision includes creating a comprehensive massage and recovery center that offers services such as cryotherapy, infrared sauna, and red light therapy, providing clients with additional tools for recovery and wellness.
For more than three decades, ATC Fitness has helped Memphians prioritize their health by making fitness accessible, convenient, and welcoming. Spencer McDaniel, President and Partner of ATC Fitness, oversees daily operations and future growth for the locally owned company, which, since 1992, has grown from a single gym to 18 locations across the Mid-South.
Despite its size, McDaniel says many people are surprised to learn that ATC Fitness remains 100% family-owned. “People often think we’re a corporate chain or franchise,” he says. “But we’re still a family business.” That local ownership has allowed the team to stay closely connected to the communities they serve while continually adapting to what Memphians want most from a fitness center.
THEIR MISSION
ATC Fitness aims to provide an environment that helps its clients stay consistent with their fitness routine. As Memphis’s only true 24/7 gym, it allows members to work out whenever it fits their schedule, whether that’s before sunrise, during a lunch break, or late at night. Spencer believes removing scheduling barriers makes it easier for people to build healthy habits that last.
The team is equally committed to creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable. Clean facilities, a welcoming atmosphere, and a wide variety of equipment enable members of all experience levels to work toward their goals with confidence.
SPENCER MCDANIEL
Best Gym: ATC Fitness
WHAT SETS THEM APART
While many gyms offer similar equipment, McDaniel believes the ATC Fitness experience comes down to their personal relationships with members. Being family-owned means the company can remain connected to its members and responsive to the needs of the Memphis community. Rather than operating like a large national chain, the team focuses on creating gyms that feel approachable, well-maintained, and equipped for everyone, from first-time exercisers to experienced lifters.
“Some of our locations seem small from the outside,” Spencer says, “but once people come in, they’re amazed by how much equipment we have and how easy it is to get a great workout.”
EXPERT ADVICE
“My tip is to stay moving,” Spencer says. “Find the type of workout that makes fitness fun for you.” He acknowledges that exercise isn’t always easy, but believes people are much more likely to stay committed when they genuinely enjoy what they’re doing. Finding an activity that fits your interests and lifestyle is key to long-term success.
LOOKING FORWARD
Beyond helping members achieve their fitness goals, ATC Fitness remains committed to giving back to the Memphis community. One of their favorite annual traditions is supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital through the St. Jude Memphis Marathon® Weekend. ATC welcomes both members and nonmembers to join its race team each December, whether they’re tackling the marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, or family fun run.
From conservative care to advanced surgical techniques, we ensure each patient receives the care that’s right for them. We offer appointments as early as the next business day for the following symptoms:
MEET THE WINNER
Melissa Bamford never expected that her career in higher education would eventually lead her to open one of the most energetic fitness studios in Memphis. While pursuing her Ph.D. in Sociology at Florida State University, she discovered group fitness and quickly fell in love with the sense of community it created. After moving to Memphis in 2013 to teach Sociology and Women’s and Gender Studies at the University of Memphis, she began teaching BodyAttack classes on the side, all while dreaming of opening her own studio someday.
Following several major life changes, including a move, a career transition, and a divorce, Melissa decided it was time to stop waiting. She returned to Memphis in late 2024 and opened Grit Group Fitness on her 41st birthday in April 2025. Many instructors who now teach at Grit were longtime friends of Melissa from Memphis’s fitness community, creating a studio built on genuine relationships from the start.
THEIR MISSION
At Grit Group Fitness, the goal extends beyond burning calories. Melissa believes that group fitness can improve physical, mental, and emotional well-being by bringing people together around a common purpose.
Drawing on her background in sociology, she points to the concept of “collective effervescence,” which suggests that people experience greater energy and emotional connection when participating in a shared activity. That’s exactly what she hopes members experience every time they walk into class. The studio offers a variety of group fitness formats designed to keep workouts fresh, challenging, and fun. More importantly, Melissa wants members to build healthy habits that last a lifetime.
“We focus on helping people love the body they’re in today so they can train for the body they’ll have for the rest of their
By Zoe Harrison / Photo by Tindall Stephens
lives,” she says. “Food is energy. Rest is essential. Movement should be enjoyable and not something driven by shame or guilt.”
WHAT SETS THEM APART
Although Grit Group Fitness may be small in size, its community is one of its greatest strengths. Members and instructors encourage one another, celebrate progress together, and create an environment where everyone feels welcome regardless of their fitness level.
Melissa hopes that every member builds a positive relationship with movement that carries into later life. Whether someone is in their twenties or sixties, she wants them to look back decades from now, grateful they invested in their health and independence.
EXPERT ADVICE
If you’re struggling to stay consistent with your exercise routine, Melissa recommends finding a fitness community rather than trying to do it alone. “Group fitness gives you more than a
workout,” she says. “You’re scheduling an appointment for your physical and mental well-being.”
She also encourages people to let go of harmful fitness messages centered on guilt or punishment. Lasting health comes from consistency, enjoyment, and finding movement you genuinely look forward to doing.
LOOKING FORWARD
As Grit Group Fitness enters its second year, the studio continues to grow. New 6 a.m. classes have recently been added on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, giving members even more opportunities to fit movement into their schedules. More than anything, Melissa is excited to continue building a welcoming fitness community while helping more Memphians discover that exercise can be one of the most enjoyable parts of their day.
By Maya Smith
Photo by Josh Clark
CYCLING FOR A CAUSE
Victor Butcher, 75, cycles an average of 215 miles a week. Because he’s a full-time caregiver for his wife and a working CPA, Butcher wakes up in the early morning hours to make time for his daily ride.
But for him, it’s worth it. The 25- to 35-mile weekday rides and the 35- to 40-mile weekend rides are his main form of stress relief.
Butcher says he’s “just always been one of those people who love exercising” for the physical and mental benefits. He’s been active as long as he can remember, recalling riding his bike as a kid.
Butcher got his first “decent” bike right after he graduated college — a 10-speed Raleigh Record. He started taking cycling and running more seriously because he wanted to improve his endurance and stay in shape.
“I was a runner, a cyclist, and a horrible swimmer,” Butcher jokes. “So I never did any triathlons.”
He traveled to races and marathons around the country, and even the world, running a marathon in Athens, Greece, on his 25th wedding anniversary.
After an atrial fibrillation episode four years ago, Butcher has not been able to run, and for a while, he couldn’t even keep up with his friends on a bike. He was discouraged until a friend loaned him an e-bike.
“It was so great that I called my son and told him what a great time I had on an e-bike,” Butcher says. “And he told me not to worry; he had already ordered one for me.”
“I’m doing good for my age. There aren’t many people in their 70s still doing this.”
Although the e-bike assists as he pedals, riding it was more challenging than it was before his heart condition.
“At least I’m here though,” Butcher says. “And I’m doing good for my age. There aren’t many people in their 70s still doing this. At my 50th high school reunion, I looked like god compared to those people.”
In September, Butcher will ride in the West Fight On walk, run, and cycle event, as he’s done every year for over a decade. The event consists of three cycling routes — 20, 40, and 60
miles — a 5K run/walk, and a one-mile tribute walk. Although Butcher will not be doing the 60-mile ride this year because of a medical procedure, he still plans to show up for the 20-mile ride.
The proceeds from the event go toward the West Cancer Foundation’s cancer services, which have benefited more than 24,000 people in the community since the event’s inception 14 years ago.
For Butcher, it’s not just about the ride. The cause has been near to his heart since his wife was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Though now in remission, Butcher takes his wife to the West Cancer Center for checkups.
The event, scheduled for September 12 at Shelby Farms Park, will also have a survivor ceremony, a bagpipe serenade, other music, food, a Kid’s Zone, Kid’s Bike Parade, and a photo booth.
To learn more about the event or to register, visit Westfighton.org.
Easy Elote Corn
Ingredients:
q sweet corn (4 count)
q 1 lime, juice only (about 2 tablespoons)
q 1 cup mayonnaise or Mexican crema
q 2 tablespoons Elote seasoning
q 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
q fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
q hot sauce or chili powder (optional)
Directions:
Heat grill to medium-high heat.
Place corn directly on grates and cook 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until charred and cooked through.
While corn is still warm, squeeze lime juice on all sides. Brush or spoon mayonnaise on each ear, ensuring all sides are coated.
Evenly sprinkle Elote seasoning over coated corn. Using hands, gently press seasoning into mayo.
Arrange Elote on serving platter, sprinkle with cotija cheese and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve with hot sauce or chili powder for extra heat, if desired.
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Micaela Ealy, Runner
32; Accounts Payable Specialist at MUC Holdings LLC
I f RUNNING: Running is my favorite form of movement because it’s both freeing and grounding. It gives me time to disconnect from the noise of everyday life, clear my mind, and reconnect with myself.
BUCKET LIST: I would love to run the Buenos Aires Half Marathon in Argentina next year. I was born in Argentina, and I would love to run a race in the country where I was born, surrounded by my family who live there.
UP NEXT: I will be running the Big River Crossing half marathon race here in November 2026
FAV FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: I recently set a new PR (85 lbs.) in the barbell deadlift. In May, during the Flying Pig Half Marathon in Cincinnati, Ohio, set multiple PRs, including the fastest 5K at 23:54 and the fastest 10K at 49:58. My official time was 1:48:41.
HOMETOWN: Waynesboro, Virginia
SPEED BUMPS: After having my daughter in 2021, I struggled to find my way back to fitness. I didn’t feel like myself physically and mentally, and it felt like I was starting from scratch. Learning to give myself grace, rebuild my confidence, and celebrate small victories helped me fall back in love with fitness.
MY GROUP: I am a proud member of 901 Run Club, where I also serve as a Race Captain. One of my favorite parts of the club is connecting with people who share a passion for running and personal growth. I want every runner, whether it’s their first group run or their fifteenth, to feel seen, supported, and encouraged.
FAV JAMS: “Vivid Dreams” by KAYTRANADA
MOST MEMORABLE FITNESS EVENT: During the 2026 Flying Pig Half Marathon, I hit a mental wall around mile six and started doubting whether I could finish the way I had hoped. Instead of letting those thoughts take over, I leaned on positive affirmations and reminded myself why I started. That moment taught me how powerful a mindset can be; I went on to finish strong and set multiple personal records.
BEST EATS: Sunrise Memphis. My favorite dish is the Kitchen Sink from the breakfast menu.
DREAM DINNER COMPANY: Emma Grede. She’s a successful businesswoman and entrepreneur.
GO-TO GEAR: I like my Coros running watch, Hoka Mach 6, Oner Active athletic clothing, and Tonal home gym machine.
INSPIRATION TO BE FIT: My daughter inspires me to be the healthiest version of myself. I want her to grow up watching me prioritize my physical and mental well-being and understand that showing up for yourself is one of the greatest forms of self-care.
ON MY NIGHTSTAND: “The Women” by Kristin Hannah
PET PEEVE: My pet peeve is when people don’t wipe down equipment or don’t re-rack the weights.
QUOTE: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” - Will Durant
Kenneth Worles Jr., Runner
37; Community Development & Strategic Storytelling
I f RUNNING: Running gives me something hard to find when you’re a husband, father, and serial entrepreneur: uninterrupted time to think. Some of my best ideas, biggest decisions, and most honest self-assessments have happened on a run. It’s cheaper than therapy, and the parking is free.
UP NEXT: I’m running the Lane Purser Memorial Road Race Series and the Half for St. Jude Memphis Marathon® Weekend this December. I’m also raising $750 for St. Jude.
FAV FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: Becoming the healthiest version of myself while simultaneously raising a young family, building businesses, and leading teams. Fitness used to be something I squeezed in when life permitted. Now it’s non-negotiable.
HOMETOWN: Memphis, TN
SPEED BUMPS: Time. Between family and work, it is remarkably easy to put yourself last and call it sacrifice. Learning to prioritize my health without feeling like I’m taking something from my family or my work — that’s been the real journey.
MY GROUP: I run independently, but I stay connected to 901 Run Club, Sea Isle Runners, and Daddy Stroller Social Club Memphis. Running is one of those rare sports where the community makes you better even when nobody’s racing anybody.
FAV JAMS: The Rocky IV soundtrack.
RECENT RACES: I recently ran in the Sea Isle Park 5K and completed my first half marathon at the Memphis in May Great American River Run.
MOST MEMORABLE FITNESS EVENT: St. Jude Marathon Weekend this past December. Running for a cause bigger than yourself changes the math on hard miles. I also hit a personal best in the 10K that day.
DREAM DINNER COMPANY: Robert Church Sr. I want to talk about institution building, economic empowerment, and what it takes to create something in Memphis that outlasts a single lifetime.
GO-TO GEAR: My Apple Watch, a solid pair of running shoes, Shokz headphones, Honey Stinger gels, and Feetures socks.
INSPIRATION TO BE FIT: A ski trip humbled me into a lifestyle change. I watched other dads carrying their skis and their kids’ skis, yet still outpacing everyone on the mountain, while I was genuinely tired just walking in the snow. I remember thinking: I want to be the dad who keeps up, not the dad who needs a break. I want to show other men that you can still build yourself physically while building a career and raising kids.
ON MY NIGHTSTAND: “The Trusted Advisor” by David H. Maister and “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. One changed how I think about relationships and earning trust over time, and the other reminded me that consistency is the whole game. Turns out they’re basically saying the same thing, but from different angles.
PET PEEVE: Pace shaming. Bodies are different. Runs are different. Do you.
QUOTE: “Fortune favors the bold.” - Virgil
Photo by Tindall Stephens
AHMED ALAINA
32, Trainer & Owner at Silver Bull Fitness
FAV WAY TO WORKOUT:
There’s nothing better than working out in my own gym, with my members who have become friends, knowing we are all here with the same goal — bettering ourselves a little more each day.
BIGGEST FITNESS MYTH:
“I want to be toned, but not build muscle so I don’t look bulky.” It’s the most common fear I hear BY FAR when it comes to strength training. A “toned” appearance is having built muscle and being lean enough to see it. “Getting bulky” is having too much fat over your muscle. Muscles aren’t the problem; fat is.
Photo by Tindall Stephens
BIGGEST NUTRITION MYTH:
“Carbs make you fat.” This is a lack of education on what carbs actually are and how your body uses them.
MY TYPICAL WORKOUT DAY:
My picture-perfect days are the days I can train and not feel rushed. The reality is, those days are few and far between. But I truly enjoy training, so being able to take my time is something I appreciate when the day allows.
MY ADVICE:
Be consistent 80% of the time, and you’ll see the results. As cliché as it sounds, consistency really is key.
MY FITNESS TIP:
Lift heavy. You will, hands down, get the most bang for your buck. However, do it safely and under the supervision of a qualified trainer.
IF I COULD ONLY HAVE ONE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT:
Kettlebell. You can accomplish many different movements to work on mobility and strength with a simple pair of kettlebells.
MY FITNESS INSPIRATION:
For me, it’s anyone who shows up consistently and puts in work. That motivates me.
DIET PHILOSOPHY:
Eat to fuel your body appropriately for the demands you are putting on it.
WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED:
I have a deep belief that working out is a nonnegotiable to keep my body strong for myself and those I love. It’s a responsibility to take care of ourselves, just like taking a shower and brushing our teeth. This is my motivation that keeps me disciplined because, at the end of the day, your fundamental beliefs about anything drive your discipline.
GOALS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD:
My goals have changed over the years. From wanting to lift big numbers to just wanting to feel good now. And there’s nothing wrong with the previous; it’s just different now. I sleep, eat, and train to feel my best for today and for decades to come. It’s nothing flashy; it’s just staying consistent.
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.
