Memphis Health+Fitness Magazine June 2026

DAVID NUGENT

NFL Star Shares Why Slowing Down Changed Everything! FATHER’S DAY FINDS FOR DADS WHO DO IT ALL

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

• 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 IN

to Request a Tour and

Be Still isn’t just a spa…it’s an

In the heart of Germantown, something special is happening. At Be Still Health & Wellness Spa, our difference isn’t just in the services we offer—it’s in the people who provide them.

Our team is made up of passionate, highly skilled professionals who are dedicated to your total well-being. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’re welcomed by a group that truly cares—about your comfort, your goals, and your journey to feeling your best.

Every massage, every facial, every treatment is delivered with intention, expertise, and a personal touch that turns a simple appointment into a meaningful escape.

THE YARD, FITNESS GOES BEYOND THE

Where performance meets purpose – designed for those who want more from their training. BUT TRAINING IS ONLY PART OF THE EQUATION.

FIND:

• State-of-the-art conditioning equipment

• Expansive indoor turf training areas

• High-energy group fitness classes, including bootcamps and Power Pilates

• Batting cages and a cutting-edge golf simulator

The Yard is also home to Peak Sports Performance and Chiropractic, offering on-site chiropractic care, performance therapy, and advanced recovery services—so you can move better, feel better, and perform at your best. WHAT YOU’LL

HA PPY PLACE :

my kayak

Chris | 37 - elbow injury | Confidently being active everyday. Enjoy more moments in your happy place.

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.

Push harder. Recover faster. Look your best—on and off the

HAIR RESTORATION

PRP THERAPY – Use your body’s own plasma to fuel hair growth and strengthen follicles for thicker, stronger hair.

DERIVE – A needle-free exosome solution to support scalp health and regrowth.

SEXUAL WELLNESS & HORMONE OPTIMIZATION

Tired of feeling off your game? Restore stamina, drive, and testosterone levels with expert hormone replacement therapy.

IV WELLNESS & PEPTIDE INJECTIONS

Get back to training stronger with targeted IV and peptide support.

ANTI-AGING SKIN TREATMENTS

Stay sharp. Look energized. Advanced skin solutions to keep your edge.

BODY SCULPTING & MUSCLE STIMULATION

Next-level definition and strength. Sculpt your physique and boost muscle tone with zero impact on your training schedule.

BROTOX

Stay competitive with a refreshed, powerful look. Smooth lines without downtime.

By Zoe Harrison

HYDRATION & HEALING AT HOME

For Mandy Bradley, healing became personal long before it became professional. A Memphis native and nurse of seven years, Mandy spent much of her career working in some of healthcare’s most emotionally demanding environments, including COVID ICUs, transplant intensive care, and hospice care. Day after day, she witnessed people and families at their hardest moments, which profoundly shaped how she viewed both healthcare and herself.

“I felt like I was living on autopilot,” Mandy says. “Healthcare changed me. Seeing people suffer constantly changed me.”

After years of working as a contract nurse, Mandy became burned out and started questioning her purpose. The fast-paced hospital system no longer aligned with the compassionate care she wanted to provide. At the same time, she was facing personal struggles of her own. Hitting what she describes as “rock bottom” was the turning point that led her down a new path.

In June of last year, Mandy made the life-changing decision to get sober. Shortly after, she left hospital nursing behind and launched her own mobile IV hydration business, The IV Nurse 901, in August.

“I wanted a sign that there was still purpose in my life,” she says. “I knew I wanted to help people feel better, but in a more supportive and personal way.”

Today, Mandy brings wellness directly to her clients’ homes through mobile IV therapy services designed to help people recover comfortably and conveniently. Whether someone is battling a stomach virus, recovering after a wedding weekend, managing migraines, or depleted from intense exercise, Mandy provides customized IV hydration treatments tailored to their needs.

Each appointment begins with a full head-to-toe assessment, including vitals and symptom evaluation. Clients can then build their own IV package, starting at $150, which may include fluids

with electrolytes, vitamins, minerals, anti-inflammatory medications, and nausea relief. “What makes me different is that I genuinely want to help people,” Mandy says. “A lot of places focus heavily on weight loss or peptides, but my goal is really about helping people feel better.”

The convenience factor is another major part of her mission. Mandy understands that when someone is sick, dehydrated, or exhausted, the last thing they want to do is sit in an urgent care or emergency waiting room for basic hydration treatment. “When you don’t have insurance, you can spend hundreds or thousands of dollars at the ER just for fluids,” she says.

As her business grows, Mandy hopes to expand to serve larger groups and events, including athletes recovering from marathons and wedding parties needing hydration support. She says many clients simply aren’t getting enough electrolytes or nutrients to meet the demands of daily life. “I wanted to create an option where people can stay comfortable in their own home.”

To learn more, visit @theIVnurse901 on Instagram.

By Zoe Harrison

BBQ SAUCE WRESTLING

The Most Memphis Sport You’ve Never Tried

Every spring, the smoke rolls into Bluff City as teams from across the country descend on Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest for one of our city’s most beloved traditions. But tucked between the barbecues, blues, and bragging rights is a touch of barbarianism, and perhaps the most wonderfully ridiculous event of the weekend: BBQ Sauce Wrestling.

Picture a wrestling ring filled with roughly 100 gallons of barbecue sauce and a rowdy crowd cheering on competitors as they attempt to grapple while sliding around like baby deer on ice. It is a spectacle, both athletic and absurd, and people couldn’t keep away from the sights (captivating yet messy), smells (delicious yet musky), and sounds (joyful yet animalistic).

About half of the matches featured everyday competitors from barbecue teams. To keep things somewhat safe, and to reduce the odds of someone launching headfirst into the mat, the rules required wrestlers to stay on their knees the entire match. Competitors battled under collegiate-style wrestling rules, trying to pin both of their opponent’s shoulders to the mat for three seconds. While simple in theory, any semblance of strength or agility is a feat of Memphis-kind with so much sauce involved.

With no traction and even less grip, every move became a slippery guessing game. Some competitors wore swim goggles, though they didn’t seem particularly effective; either the goggles became completely coated in sauce, or wrestlers skipped them altogether and spent most of the match blinking barbecue sauce out of their eyes. If no pin happened during the two three-minute rounds, the crowd decided the winner, which turned every match into part wrestling competition, part vibe-based popularity contest.

The standout story of the night came from two friends, Hung Nguyen and Chris Coles, both non-professional wrestlers, but who clearly knew what they were doing. Their match was surprisingly technical despite the chaos, with constant reversals and neither competitor able to gain a clear advantage. When time expired, the crowd made the call, awarding Hung the victor and, reportedly, his third career sauce wrestling win, making him the winningest sauce wrestler in BBQ Fest history.

Naturally, the night ended in complete mayhem, with the final match featuring two professional women wrestlers that began normally enough, before one wrestler from an earlier match stormed back into the ring, yelling at one of the competitors. Within seconds, wrestlers from previous matches piled back into the sauce-covered ring, the referee was effectively removed from power, and barbecue sauce started flying everywhere in an all-out free-for-all.

Only here in Memphis could barbecue, wrestling, and community somehow combine into one gloriously messy tradition. From our standpoint of Health + Fitness, there is truly no better test of athleticism than mixing in a little sauce.

For more information on the events for 2027, please visit their website at Memphisinmay.org or Memphisinmay.org/barbecue.

TENNIS MEMPHIS IS SERVING UP SUN SAFETY

Tennis, sunshine, and community spirit came together in a major way at the recent Spring Fling Mixed Doubles Mixer & Family Play Night hosted by Tennis Memphis in partnership with the USTA Foundation and La Roche-Posay ®

Held at the outdoor courts of Leftwich Tennis Center, the event blended fitness, fun, and wellness education into one lively evening for players of all ages. More than 90 participants filled the courts for mixed doubles play, family tennis activities, and interactive health-focused experiences centered around sun safety.

While the competition and family games kept energy levels high, the day’s bigger message focused on protecting athletes’ health both on and off the court. Attendees had the opportunity to learn directly from local dermatologists about the importance of sunscreen, skin protection, and early skin cancer detection. Free skin checks were offered on-site by dermatologist Dr. Michael Schneider of Dermatology East, providing participants with an accessible, practical way to prioritize preventive care while enjoying an active lifestyle.

The event also featured a La Roche-Posay education and sampling station stocked with skincare products and informational materials, reinforcing the fact that wellness extends far beyond workouts and nutrition. For tennis players especially, hours spent outdoors can significantly increase sun exposure, making proper skin protection just as essential as hydration and recovery.

Events like this continue to show how Memphis fitness organizations are finding creative ways to merge recreation with education. By combining movement, community connection, and preventative health awareness, Tennis Memphis and its partners delivered a reminder that staying healthy isn’t just about being active; it’s also about protecting yourself for the long game.

Tennismemphis.org

Minimally Invasive Treatments to Get Back to Feeling Better Faster

People are living longer, staying active later in life, and expecting their bodies to keep up; however, joint pain, inflammation, and injuries can make that difficult. The good news? Advances in minimally invasive treatments are helping people recover faster, move better, and avoid major surgery in many cases. We spoke with interventional radiologist Dr. Michael Doherty about the latest options for treating pain in the knee, back, shoulder, and foot, and how these procedures are helping patients get back to doing what they love with less downtime.

What are the most common pain issues you see in people who work out regularly or want to stay active?

One of the biggest issues I see is inflammation-related pain — especially in active adults who want to keep moving but are limited by joint pain, back pain, or overuse injuries. A lot of patients also deal with arthritis, tendon injuries, plantar fasciitis, or back pain caused by compression fractures.

The good news is that many of these conditions can now be treated with minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, such as arterial embolization and kyphoplasty, which can reduce pain, improve mobility, and help people get back to the activities they enjoy — often without major surgery or a long recovery.

What exactly is embolization?

Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat pain, inflammation, and other conditions by blocking abnormal blood flow in targeted areas of the body. Using advanced imaging guidance, tiny particles are delivered through a small catheter to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms — often without the need for surgery.

For many patients, embolization can mean less pain, faster recovery, and a quicker return to normal activities.

Once you have these procedures, how long does relief last?

Unlike steroid injections, which often need to be repeated every few months, these procedures are designed to deliver longerlasting relief. For plantar fasciitis, my goal is for the patient never to do it again.

With the artery embolization in the knee, you can get a durable result of six to 12 months of pain improvement. You can have it done again if you need to, which is fair considering that a steroid injection will give you four to six weeks.

For procedures of the knee, shoulder, back, and foot (plantar fasciitis), what is the downtime afterward?

The downtime from these procedures is minimal. Patients can be up and moving around very quickly afterward.

For the back (kyphoplasty), patients are up and feeling better that afternoon.

For the knee and any arterial case, we ask them to take it easy for a couple of days, and that is just related to the arterial puncture. After that, they can test it out and move forward as they wish!

The embolization isn’t like kyphoplasty, where you’re better right away, or a pain injection, where you’re better right away. It takes a couple of weeks to a month for all that neovascularity to sort of go away, and for the swelling and inflammatory pain to get better.

How do you, as an Interventional Radiologist, offer these treatments differently from other specialists?

I’m biased, but I think interventional radiologists use imaging in the best and most efficient way. There are surgical approaches that may be necessary, and some surgeons offer some of these minimally invasive options, but I was trained specifically to use these imaging tools.

Does insurance cover these procedures?

Yes, these procedures are usually covered by most insurances.

Any final advice for our readers?

Stay active! More and more research shows that maintaining lean muscle mass is one of the best things you can do for longevity and overall health. Whatever helps you keep moving safely is worth pursuing.

For more information on these procedures, visit Westcancercenter.org/ pain-and-disease-management

Dr. Michael Doherty is an accomplished interventional radiologist with nearly 20 years of clinical experience specializing in minimally invasive image-guided procedures. He currently serves as Director of Interventional Radiology at West Cancer Center & Research Institute where he is helping expand innovative, non-cancer treatment options and wellness-focused procedures for patients across the region.

Fighting the Rise of Colorectal Cancer:

What You Need to Know

Colorectal cancer diagnoses are on the rise, especially in younger patients. Here’s how to stay healthy!

With colorectal cancer rates on the rise and patients being diagnosed earlier, awareness and proper care are essential to staying healthy.

As surgical oncologists who specialize in treating colorectal cancer, we know it is critical for patients to be proactive.

Some patients ignore symptoms for months or even years. That can delay diagnosis and treatment, allowing cancer to become more advanced and harder to treat.

One of the biggest developments in our field is the new recommendation that average-risk patients start screening colonoscopies at age 45.

We realize people feel anxious about colonoscopy, but it is truly the gold standard because it both detects and prevents cancer. If we find a pre-cancerous polyp, we can remove it before it ever becomes cancer. Also, if your colonoscopy comes back clear, you only need to repeat it every 10 years.

If you are at high risk due to a family history of colorectal cancer or personal history of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or you have symptoms like rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel movements, talk to your provider about your screening needs.

In general, patients with a family history should start colonoscopies when they are 10 years younger than the age at which their family member was diagnosed. Some high-risk patients are eligible for genetic testing, too.

There are also new non-invasive screening tests, including stool tests, blood tests, and CT colonoscopy. These are better than nothing, but they can lead to false positives and aren’t as effective as colonoscopy for detecting pre-cancerous or earlystage tumors. Also, if you have a positive result with any of these tests, you still need a colonoscopy within nine months.

By David Shibata, MD and Saloni Mehrotra, MD

Along with screening, you can manage your risk through lifestyle.

There is strong evidence that regular physical activity and a diet rich in fiber, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables has a protective effect. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol, processed foods, and red meat also provide protection.

Meanwhile, treatment for colorectal cancer continues to improve.

New minimally invasive surgical techniques are improving survival rates and quality of life.

Regional One Health is the only hospital in Memphis with the Da Vinci 5 robotic surgery platform, the most advanced technology available. We can offer minimally invasive procedures for more patients, even those who previously weren’t good candidates.

Minimally invasive surgery involves very small incisions, so patients recover more quickly and often don’t need an overnight hospital stay. There are also endoscopic options for early-stage cancer that require no incision at all.

In medical oncology, certain subtypes of colorectal cancers respond to immunotherapy, which triggers your immune system to fight cancer.

Immunotherapy targets diseased cells while sparing healthy cells, so it is highly effective and often easier on the patient. Every patient diagnosed at Regional One Health undergoes genetic testing to see if they are a candidate for immunotherapy.

Our field continues to advance, with improvements in personalized screening, minimally invasive surgery, immunotherapy, and organ preservation on the horizon.

With greater awareness, screening, and treatment, we can help more patients survive and live healthy lives!

Learn more at Regionalonehealth.org/cancer-care or by calling 901.515.HOPE (4673).

are surgical oncologists with Regional One Health Cancer Care. They both specialize in treating colorectal

Father-daughter dance made possible by Whole Spine Care™

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:

Visit semmes-murphey.com to learn more and schedule your appointment.

FATHER’S DAY gift guide

Show your appreciation for dad this Father’s Day! Our Father’s Day Gift Guide includes something special for everyone, including daily essentials to high-performance gear and recovery services.

5.11 TACTICAL

The RUSH ® 24 2.0 Backpack (37L) is a rugged, everyday pack with tons of compartments, MOLLE webbing, and hydration compatibility, making it ideal for travel, gym, or work carry.

$140

Combine it with the TacTec Trainer Weight Vest, a top-tier training vest built for rucking, running, and strength workouts, featuring adjustable plates, breathable mesh, and a secure, tactical fit for a gift set that supports both utility and training.

$150-$170

OUTDOORS INC.

The Patagonia Men’s Capilene Cool Daily 73 Skyline Hoody from Outdoors Inc. is a lightweight, quick-drying layer built for all-day comfort on hikes, runs, and other warm-weather adventures, with breathable stretch fabric that keeps dads cool while on the move.

$79

LANSKY BROS.

Upgrade dad’s wardrobe with a unique and stylish sports coat from Lansky Bros. Their exclusive collection is made from premium materials, including twill, leather, velvet, wool, cashmere, and lightweight linen, and comes in various colors, textures, and patterns — great for your next summer family outing!

$295-$395

GRIVET

OUTDOORS

The Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest is the perfect gift for dads training for races, hiking trails, or spending long days outdoors. The lightweight vest offers comfort and hands-free hydration for every adventure.

$179.95

Pair it with the Oboz Katabatic LT Low Hiking Shoe for the ultimate outdoor-ready gift setup.

$155

VICTORY BICYCLE STUDIO

Help dad challenge himself this summer while building endurance and community with the Victory Bicycle Studio Summer Training Club. Programs range from beginner-friendly, Couch-to-50 rides to advanced endurance training, complete with group rides, coaching, clinics, and group support so dad can crush his fitness goals.

$299

FLEET FEET

The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 combines lightweight, open-ear comfort with premium sound quality for dads to stay alert to their surroundings while staying active. Boasting up to 12 hours of battery life, these headphones are built for long workouts and everyday movement and use.

BE STILL HEALTH & WELLNESS SPA

Help dad recharge with recovery-focused gifts, including custom deep tissue massages (starting at $95) and wellness memberships featuring cryotherapy, infrared sauna, cold plunge therapy, and more (starting at $99)

DISCOVERING SOUTHALL WHERE LUXURY & WELLNESS FLOW NATURALLY

FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE

Tucked into the rolling countryside of Southall Farm & Inn, Southall offers more than a luxury getaway — it creates a slower, healthier way of living. The experience blends wellness, comfort, nature, and relaxation in a way that feels approachable rather than overwhelming.

From the moment guests arrive, the property encourages movement naturally. Scenic walking trails wind through gardens, fields, and wooded paths, turning simple strolls into memorable hikes filled with beautiful views. Unlike a typical hotel fitness routine, staying active here feels effortless and enjoyable.

Southall’s farm-to-table philosophy is another standout feature. Meals are seasonal, vibrant, and crafted with ingredients harvested directly from the property. Nutritious dining never feels restrictive; instead, fresh vegetables, locally sourced proteins, and thoughtfully prepared dishes deliver both nourishment and indulgence.

The wellness focus extends beyond food and exercise. Spa experiences and peaceful relaxation spaces encourage guests to slow down, recharge, and disconnect from daily stress. Quiet moments overlooking the water or stepping away from screens become important reminders that rest is an essential part of overall wellness.

What makes Southall especially memorable is its relaxed approach to healthy living. There are no rigid schedules or pressure to optimize every moment. Instead, wellness develops organically through fresh air, movement, good food, and calm surroundings.

Guests leave feeling refreshed, energized, and reminded that wellness does not always begin in a gym. Sometimes, it starts with a peaceful walk through nature and a memorable meal shared in a beautiful setting.

For more information, please reach out. With more than 25 years of experience designing curated luxury vacations, I specialize in wellness and spa retreats, luxury and small-ship cruises, all-inclusive vacations, honeymoons, multigenerational travel, private custom tours, escorted tours, adventure and expedition travel, river cruises, luxury villa rentals, and luxury hotels and resorts.

THE POWER OF PAUSING

After retiring from the NFL, former New England Patriots player and Super Bowl Champion David Nugent, 46, spent years trying to maintain the same level of workout intensity he had during his career. Over time, that approach began to take its toll. A married father of four, he found himself dealing with nagging injuries, fatigue, and chronic inflammation.

Determined not to live the rest of his life in pain and exhaustion, David began searching for natural ways to recover and restore his body. That search led him to a local recovery center, where he was introduced to modalities like cryotherapy, infrared sauna, and red-light therapy. He quickly began incorporating these into his daily routine.

The results were transformational. His energy improved, his testosterone levels increased, and the inflammation, pain, and stress he had been battling began to fade. What started as a personal solution soon became something bigger.

Inspired by his transformation and guided by his faith and passion for helping others, David opened Be Still Health & Wellness Spa. The full-service wellness space is built around a simple mission: to restore the mind, body, and spirit through intentional, effective recovery modalities.

Be Still offers a wide range of services, including massage therapy, cryotherapy, infrared sauna, cold plunge, contrast therapy, red light therapy, compression therapy, and more. Each service is designed to help clients function better and live at a higher level.

Having spent years in professional sports and observing the habits of elite athletes, David understands the role recovery plays in long-term performance.

“You don’t have to be special to experience success with your health — you just need to be consistent,” he says. “In professional sports, recovery has become just as important as training. That’s why athletes are playing longer than ever before.”

He emphasizes that consistency is what creates lasting change.

“Life gets busy, and things get in the way, but recovery still needs to be part of the focus. When you commit to it over time, that’s when real transformation happens.”

Be Still was designed to be more than just a spa — it’s a place where people can pause, reset, and recharge. Whether it’s an athlete coming in after practice, a physician seeking a midday reset, a busy parent decompressing after work, or someone simply looking for relief from daily stress, every guest is welcomed into a calm, supportive environment.

“Your body isn’t meant to go 100% all day long,” David explains. “You have to give it time to recover.”

Be Still, inspired by Psalm 46:10, reflects that philosophy — a reminder to slow down, let go of stress, and trust that everything is under control.

David is especially passionate about encouraging men to prioritize their health.

“We tend to put everything else first, but if you want to be the best husband, father, and professional, you have to take care of yourself. When you do, everyone around you benefits.”

Today, David lives what he teaches. His daily routine includes morning red light therapy followed by a cold plunge for mental clarity and sustained energy. After the gym, he uses the sauna to relax and recover, and he ends his day with a cryotherapy session — sleeping deeply and waking ready to do it all again.

Treat Dad this Father’s Day with a Be Still Experience Pass, now on sale for 10% OFF! (Limited Time-June) 901.236.7800 • Bestillhealthandwellnessspa.com IG: @bestillhealthandwellnessspa

TRAINING THE BODY & GROUNDING THE SOUL

“Here to serve.” These are words Memphian Noel Fenderson, 41, lives by. As a husband, father of four, reserve Collierville SWAT officer, founder and president of local nonprofit My Town Miracles, and creator of the brand Dangerous But Good, Noel’s service to others is clearly exemplified in his work, relationships, and involvement in the community. A healthy lifestyle — not just physically, but also through his faith and the spirit of his work at his nonprofit and brand — gives Noel a comprehensive approach to health.

Noel is the owner and founder of Dangerous But Good, “a men’s movement with a mission focused on helping men become strong, disciplined, and grounded — dangerous to evil but good at the core.” His background of 15 years in law enforcement is woven throughout: “That role has shaped how I lead — staying steady under pressure, taking responsibility, and being prepared for whatever comes.” More than just a brand, Dangerous But Good promotes a healthy lifestyle through the values of faith, family, and freedom, and aims to create a culture “where people are emboldened to live dangerously good lives.” Through a combination of counseling, leading, and other resources, this brand provides support in all aspects of life.

Continuing with the theme of serving others, Noel is also the founder and president of My Town Miracles. This local nonprofit serves youth and families in the Memphis area by removing barriers and meeting real needs. Involvement has been “life-giving” according to Noel. “It keeps things in perspective and reminds me that a healthy life isn’t just about you, it’s about how you show up for others,” he says.

Not only for physical health and fitness, but also for mental fortitude, Noel trains several days a week, mixing strength training and Jiu-Jitsu at Collierville Fit Defense. “Jiu-Jitsu has been a huge part of my growth. It teaches discipline, humility, and control under pressure, and it carries over into how I lead, work, and live.” To complement his workout regimen, Noel keeps things simple nutrition-wise, focusing on whole foods, high protein, and staying hydrated. He aims for consistency here — nothing extreme.

Consistently serving others and maintaining an all-around healthy lifestyle requires balance, which Noel is constantly working on. He explains, “For me, it starts with priorities — faith, family, then everything else. I try to stay present at home and intentional with my time. It’s not perfect, but it’s about staying aligned with what matters most.” But at the core of it all is faith, according to Noel. “That’s what anchors everything,” he says. “When I think about living a healthy life, it’s not just physical. It’s being aligned spiritually, mentally, and relationally. My faith shapes how I lead my family, serve others, and approach everything I do. Dangerous But Good and My Town Miracles are both extensions of those ways to reach people, especially men, and point them toward something deeper.”

As demonstrated by a life dedicated to service, Noel just wants “to live a life that matters — to be a present husband, a strong father, and someone who leads with purpose.” He hopes to provide encouragement for others. His advice: “You don’t have to have it all figured out. Just stay anchored in the right things, take the next step, and keep going.”

To learn more about Dangerous But Good and My Town Miracles, visit: Dangerousbutgood.com / Mytownmiracles.org

Follow on FB and IG: dangerousbutgood / @mytown_miracles

DREAM OF FITNESS AND FASHION COMES TO LIFE

Kristopher Davis, 36, had never been on an airplane until he bought a one-way ticket to Los Angeles in 2019, hoping to launch his fitness modeling career.

“I was ready for something new and different because I felt like I wasn’t growing anymore,” Davis says. “My dad told me I needed to call my cousin in California, so I did. When I left, I didn’t have anything. I slept on my cousin’s floor for six months.”

After a year in California with few leads, COVID-19 hit the world, and that’s when things started to take off for him.

“My mom and everyone were calling me, telling me I needed to come home because the world is falling apart and people are dying,” he says. “But I hadn’t been there long enough to see how it could manifest.”

Davis started sending his social media posts to brands, and hundreds of emails later, a brand responded. They sent him a clothing package to shoot in, which Davis says he had no idea how to do at the time. He figured it out, the brand loved the content, and he became an ambassador.

“From there, that door opened up another door which opened up another,” he says. “And eventually I got a call from Fashion Nova.”

Now Davis is a successful fitness model, splitting his time between work in LA and Memphis. This path has allowed Davis to combine two passions. Growing up, he always loved fashion and putting outfits together, as well as staying active with sports. Davis played baseball and basketball and was a high school track star.

He never intentionally worked out or followed a structured plan, though, until his twenties, when he was looking for a new, positive environment to plant himself, and joined ATC Fitness. Early in his journey, he was inspired by his friend’s physique and wanted to emulate it.

“He’d always show up in a tank top and shorts with his quads and big arms,” Davis says. “I really admired him. I noticed the respect he got, and I wanted that.”

Shortly after, he crossed paths with a bodybuilder preparing for competition, and they became workout partners. This gave Davis a strong foundation for creating disciplined, structured workouts.

He’s been doing the same routine ever since: fasted cardio in the morning and weight training in the afternoon six times a week.

“I don’t do super heavy weights, and I don’t exercise all day long,” Davis says. “My workouts are modest. I’m just consistent.”

His diet is also consistent: he follows a very specific, nutrientdense, high-protein meal plan, but he does allow a treat on the weekend.

“I eat for performance and results,” Davis says. “I can’t take a vacation from the goal. So I’ve figured out how to treat myself without going too far off the plan.”

He also starts his day with 100 push-ups, gets 10,000 steps a day, and regularly does contrast therapy.

Davis believes in caring for his whole self, including his mind. So he makes time to slow down and do things like walking in nature and listening to the birds.

“That’s helped me more than anything,” he says. “Mindset is key. The better you do internally, the better the external world will manifest for you.”

Davis, also a certified personal trainer and transformational specialist, owns an online coaching business, Active Lifestyle Coaching. He approaches his client’s journeys like he does his own.

“I don’t even like being called a personal trainer,” Davis says. “That doesn’t really paint the whole picture. I help change a person’s mind long before their body changes. We work from the inside out.”

Connect with Davis on his social media accounts at @kristopherdavis_ to follow his journey or learn more about his coaching services.

By

CHASING THE NEXT CHALLENGE

Michael Hill, the general manager and head coach at High Point Climbing and Fitness, is still chasing movement the same way he did as a kid growing up in West Tennessee. Whether it’s climbing, lifting weights, running ultramarathons, or circling entire cities on foot, fitness has never been about standing still.

Originally from Michigan but raised in Union City and Martin, Tennessee, he spent his younger years immersed in sports. He played four sports in high school, two in college, and even played arena football with the Memphis Xplorers in 2003. When his football career ended, Michael quickly found a new challenge to take its place. “I’ve always enjoyed being active,” he said. “As soon as I stepped away from football, I fell into outdoor rock climbing,” he says.

What started as a chance encounter with some climbers during a backpacking trip in Southern Illinois turned into a two-decade passion. For more than 12 years, he climbed almost exclusively outdoors, eventually competing and working with sponsored climbing companies before indoor climbing gyms began booming across the country. Today, he helps lead one of Memphis’ growing climbing communities at High Point Climbing and Fitness, where he’s been involved since returning to the city three years ago after living in both New York City and Shanghai, China.

Michael’s path to ultrarunning came to him in an equally organic way. Running had always been part of his life, dating back to middle school, when he would run for miles to clear his mind. Later, while living in Shanghai and teaching at a university while studying Mandarin, a friend convinced him to sign up for the 2009 Shanghai Marathon, and he was instantly hooked.

A few years later, he transitioned into trail running and ultras, eventually earning a free entry into the grueling Pinhoti 100mile race. Somewhere along the way, long-distance running became less about competition and more about curiosity. That curiosity led him to a challenge that recently caught attention online: running around the perimeter of Memphis.

“I’ve done it in a lot of places I’ve lived,” he said. “I ran around Manhattan when I lived in New York.” Now on a streak of more than 500 consecutive days running, he averages well over 1,200 miles per year. He hopes to surpass 2,000 miles this year, enough to continue working toward his personal “circumference of the Earth” mileage goal. “I used to train more intensely in seasons,” he said. “Now it’s more about longevity and fun.”

These days, his routine includes daily running, climbing a couple of times a week, and strength training three to four days per week. But one of his biggest passions is helping others discover movement for themselves. He believes climbing, especially, offers something unique. “You’re solving puzzles with your body,” he said. “It engages both the mind and body.”

At High Point, he’s seen climbing help everyone from kids and beginners to adults navigating Parkinson’s disease. He’s also passionate about teaching his two daughters that strength isn’t just physical; it’s mental, emotional, and something they can carry into every part of life.

To start climbing or to learn more about High Point, visit Highpointclimbing.com.

THE DOCTOR WHO GOES THE DISTANCE

Daniel M. Alterman, MD, practices what he preaches. As a vascular surgeon and co-owner of The Vascular & Vein Institute of the South — the largest vascular surgery practice in the Mid-South — Daniel fixes circulation in the legs to prevent amputation, while also promoting a healthy lifestyle through his part-time career as a long-distance runner.

Daniel admits to having spent much of his young adult years training in medicine, without much focus on exercise. When a colleague invited him to run in a 5K four years ago, Daniel was both surprised and disappointed to find it a difficult endeavor that left him with a calf sprain.

“I thought, I’ve got to make this better. I started training, realizing in the process that I loved running and exercising for what it does for me physically and mentally,” he says. Six months into training, Daniel signed up for the St. Jude Memphis Marathon®, only to discover he wanted to run longer distances. This led him to complete his first 50K and 100-mile race, a pastime he now casually refers to as his “weekend gig.” Along the way, Daniel found himself drawn to the people who comprise the ultramarathon community. “Everyone has a different story of why they’re there,” he says. “Hearing those stories is inspiring.”

These days, Daniel logs 60–100 miles per week, runs one ultramarathon per month, and cross-trains.

“There’s a lot of science and high-level medical evidence that even 30 minutes of walking three times per week will stabilize peripheral circulation and prevent PAD.”

Many patients at The Vascular & Vein Institute tend to have poor health habits, such as smoking and a lack of exercise. “To make these treatments durable, we need to discuss lifestyle choices, which is a massive part of restoring circulation,” or what he refers to as “the plumbing of the arteries and veins.”

When patients and colleagues express disbelief at how Daniel manages 10–12 hours of running weekly with such a demanding job, Dr. Alterman responds, “I see it the other way around. It gives me energy, improves my sleep, and relieves stress.”

The Vascular & Vein Institute sees the most urgent cases, such as clogged arteries in the neck that lead to strokes, severe circulation issues, gangrene, and those facing amputation. Despite this, his clinic maintains some of the best outcomes in the country, preventing over 90% of amputation cases. “We’ve invested in the latest tools and cutting-edge techniques,” he explains, in addition to their team’s combined 50 years of experience.

Shelby County has the highest amputation rate in the United States. “Some people are treated dismissively in medicine, which ties into disparities in healthcare,” Daniel explains of his charity work, traveling to treat underserved communities, including areas of Mississippi and Arkansas. “It takes a certain sense of calling, compassion, and effort.”

As someone who spent 14 years in school, Daniel not only understands effort but also the satisfaction of seeing challenges through. His running practice “is an extension of that attitude, trying hard things and feeling success, knowing you can when other people might think that is not possible,” he says.

The ultramarathon community is rather small, and Daniel enjoys meeting interesting people along the way and seeing repeat runners. “Everyone has a different story of why they’re there. Hearing those stories gives you a lot of energy.”

For more information, visit Vascularandveininstitute.com.

By Zoe Harrison

TRANSFORMING THROUGH FITNESS & TEACHING

At 43, Andrew Woods has transformed not only his body, but his entire outlook on health, fitness, and community. After losing nearly 100 pounds, Andrew now spends much of his free time doing what once felt impossible: teaching hot Pilates classes at Sana Yoga and training regularly at Grind Central Fitness. Despite his easygoing and fun spirit, Andrew’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and learning to feel safe and confident in fitness spaces.

Andrew was raised primarily by a hardworking single mom who juggled multiple jobs and learned early on that opportunities often depended on what transportation or resources were available. Still, he stayed active through sports, competing in track, football, baseball, and basketball, often relying on coaches to get him to and from practice. Track quickly became his standout sport. Andrew excelled in the 100- and 200-meter dash; “I would get bored in races because nobody could beat me,” he said with a laugh.

Andrew Woods before weight lose

As he got older, his interests shifted toward music and community. He joined the school band, playing valve trombone, because it allowed him to stay connected to school activities without some of the social pressures he experienced growing up biracial in the South during the 1980s.

After leaving school at 16 and entering the workforce, fitness became inconsistent. At 17, Andrew joined a gym for the first time, but an uncomfortable encounter in the locker room left him feeling unsafe and pushed him away from gyms for years. “I stayed away from the gym after that because I didn’t feel like it was a safe space for me,” he said. “I’m 6’1”, and I still needed to feel safe.”

Eventually, encouragement from friends helped him return to working out in his mid-20s. He trained intensely alongside a roommate who was a professional wrestler, sometimes doing multiple

workouts a day, with running and yoga classes mixed in.

Unfortunately, life brought setbacks. A divorce in 2015 led to significant weight gain, and during the pandemic and after the loss of loved ones, Andrew found himself battling depression and gaining another 85 pounds. However, everything changed unexpectedly during an Instacart delivery to Sana Yoga in East Memphis. While dropping off water at the studio, he struck up a conversation with owner Amy Lenkszus, who encouraged him to try classes.

Andrew started slowly with yoga, Pilates, yoga sculpt, and fusion classes. “Some of it was really hard being out of shape,” he admitted. “But I just kept showing up.” Five months later, he added weightlifting at Grind Central Fitness in Olive Branch, and the momentum continued. Today, he teaches Pilates classes at Sana, inspired in

part by his favorite instructor, Rachel Cox, who once joked that if he cared that much about playlists, he should become an instructor.

After starting training at Sana, Andrew learned that his love for classes extends beyond the music. “One big driver is that it’s something I never thought would be possible,” he said. “Amy and Margaret at Sana made me believe it was.” Now, his goal is to create the kind of environment he once needed himself for others — one where people feel supported, respected, and motivated, regardless of where they are in their journey. “Even at my most fit, I never looked like the stereotypical fitness guy,” Andrew said. “I want people to know they belong here, too.”

Find Andrew’s schedule at sanayogastudios.com, or follow his journey on Instagram @andrewdoespilates.

By Shlomit Ovadia

Photo by Tindall Stephens

BACK ON TRACK

Memphis-born and raised, Justin Brock, 43, grew up playing sports and enjoyed a brief bodybuilding career from age 18 into his twenties. Despite staying active at home with his fiancée and three kids, Justin noticed in his 40s that he was steadily gaining weight and that his recovery and energy levels were not what they used to be. After researching his symptoms, Justin suspected he might be dealing with low testosterone.

He initially began receiving Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) at various clinics around town. Still, over time, he became frustrated with shifting protocols, including out-of-pocket-only policies and inadequate monitoring of metabolic and organ function panels. This ultimately led him to seek out more intentional, patientfocused clinics.

“Most of the other clinics were not prescribing testosterone anymore, and if they did, they weren’t strict about checking your cholesterol, kidney, and liver levels, all of which can be affected by supplements,” Justin explains of what made Gameday Men’s Health in Collierville stand out during his search for care.

Justin has been going to Gameday for the past year. The clinic offers treatments and personalized care for men, including comprehensive lab testing before and during treatment, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), medically supervised weight-loss programs, Peptide therapies that support recovery, sleep, and longevity, and additional treatments for hair loss and anti-aging.

Unlike other clinics, Gameday prioritizes a physician-led approach and a streamlined appointment process that fits even the busiest schedules, allowing clients to begin

treatment without the long delays often seen in traditional healthcare settings.

Since becoming a client, Justin’s testosterone has increased from 150 to nearly 800. He has lost 20 pounds and experienced a noticeable boost in energy, allowing him to stay active at home and focused at work.

Additional treatments Justin has used include Tirzepatide, a GLP-1 medication for weight loss that does not compromise muscle mass, and Sermorelin, an injection that supports energy, stamina, and joint health.

“I changed my whole diet while on Tirzepatide,” says Justin. “I wanted to put in the work to get the most out of it.” Because he often shares dinners with his family, he focuses on meal-prepping breakfasts and lunches. One of his go-to meals is a deconstructed Big Mac burger bowl, without the bread and with healthier sauces.

Gameday even makes it easier to stay on top of your health. “The staff are knowledgeable and answer all of your questions. It made me feel better about everything, and I appreciate the holistic approach they take.”

By combining lifestyle changes with medical oversight, Justin not only returned to his high school jean size of 31, but also feels more confident in shirts that no longer cling to his midsection.

Taking care of your health isn’t about extremes; it’s about having the right support and information and a plan you can stick with.

Schedule your appointment today at gamedaymenshealth.com/collierville-tn or 901.286.2688. Justin IG: Levibrock_83

THE DISCIPLINE OF SHOWING UP

FATHERHOOD, FITNESS, AND THE LONG GAME

For Dr. Kyle Vinson, balancing the final years of medical training with fatherhood, fitness could have easily become one more thing pushed aside by the demands of everyday life. Long work hours, family responsibilities, interrupted sleep, and endless obligations can make exercise feel nearly impossible. But for Kyle, finishing his ophthalmology fellowship while raising two small children, staying active has become less about performance and more about building a sustainable life.

Over the years, he has learned that consistency matters far more than perfection.

From medical school through residency and now fellowship training, there have always been reasons to skip workouts. Exhaustion, packed schedules, and the unpredictability of life constantly compete for his time. After becoming a father, the challenge only grew. To succeed, he applied the same discipline required by medical training to his fitness routine and developed a balance he could maintain.

“To be successful in medical school, you have to be self-driven, and you have to schedule things in place, or else they will not happen,” he says. “Once you establish that, it becomes part of your life.”

Most mornings start early because he knows that if exercise does not happen before the day takes over, it probably won’t happen at all. His routine is simple and sustainable: running three times a week alongside regular weightlifting sessions at the Crosstown YMCA. Some workouts are shorter or less intense than planned, and sometimes just showing up is enough.

That flexibility has become one of the most important parts of his approach. Instead of chasing perfection, he focuses on doing what is reasonable for his body and energy, prioritizing movement over intensity.

“The internal battle of willpower does eventually fade over time,” he says. For Kyle, there is no magic secret — just consistency and enough grace to keep going even when life feels demanding.

What motivates him now has less to do with appearance and more to do with the life he wants in the future. He wants to stay healthy enough to travel and hike with his wife for years to come. He wants the energy to keep up with his children as they grow older. Most importantly, he wants to feel healthy and present in both his work and home life.

cheers on her daddy’s pushups nearby.

“In those moments,” he says, “it’s nice to have her involved.”

The benefits extend beyond fitness itself. Kyle says his routine helps him manage stress, stay focused, and bring better energy into long clinic days. In a profession centered around caring for others, taking care of himself has become an important part of showing up well for patients and colleagues.

There is no dramatic transformation or extreme routine at the center of his story. Instead, it is built on something quieter and more familiar — early mornings, imperfect weeks, and the steady effort to keep showing up for the people who matter most.

For Kyle, fitness is not about being perfect. It is about making small choices that support the kind of husband, father, doctor, and person he hopes to be for the long term.

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Contact Lens Success Begins with the Right Fit

Pearl Couscous & Chickpea Salad

Ingredients:

q 1 bag Success Pearl Couscous

q 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

q 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

q 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

q 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

q 1 tablespoon za’atar

q 2 tablespoons olive oil

q 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed

q 1/2 teaspoon salt

q 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

Prepare pearl couscous according to package directions.

In large bowl, combine couscous, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley and za’atar.

Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Toss until well combined.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

By Dale Sanford, Performance Coach

TOP 5 RACE PERFORMANCE KILLERS & HOW TO PREVENT THEM

You trained for months. You sacrificed sleep, your social life, and the ability to walk down the stairs without groaning. Race day arrived, and something went sideways anyway. It happens to the most fit athletes from time to time. So here are the five most common culprits and how to prevent them.

1. POOR NUTRITION STRATEGY

Your digestive system also has opinions about race day, and ignoring them is a fast track to a very long day. During hard exercise, blood gets redirected away from your gut to your working muscles, making it far less efficient at processing food. So avoid too much fat, protein, or fiber, as they are more difficult to digest. Glycogen stores last roughly 90–120 minutes at race intensity — after that, you’re running on fumes. So carbohydrate intake is paramount. A simple rule of thumb: aim for 30g of carbohydrate per hour for shorter efforts under 90 minutes, 60g per hour for moderate-length events, and up to 90g per hour for long efforts — provided you’ve trained your gut to handle it. Whatever your plan is, practice it in training, start fueling earlier than feels necessary, and never try something new on race day. This should not require explanation, yet every race has port-ajohns full of people getting that friendly reminder.

2. POOR HYDRATION STRATEGY

Dehydration is sneaky. By the time you feel thirsty, you’re already behind. Even a 2-3% loss in body weight from sweat measurably hurts performance. But here’s the twist: overhydration is a real problem, too. Drinking too much plain water without replacing sodium can cause hyponatremia — your blood sodium drops, cells swell, and you end up in the medical tent for the opposite reason. Sweat isn’t just water — it carries sodium with it, and that sodium loss contributes to cramping, brain fog, and late-race zombie walks. The goal isn’t simply to drink enough; it’s to replace what you’re actually losing. Know your sweat rate and your sweat sodium concentration (which can be tested), and prioritize sodium replacement. Most people who use the right sports drink for them can drink to thirst and are just fine.

Dale Sanford is the co-founder of BPC Performance, Inc. and has been coaching individuals and athletes all over the world since 2009. You can catch up with Dale @bpcperformance on IG, or listen to the Coaches on Couches Podcast. If you’d like to start your health or sports performance journey with BPC, visit Buildpeakcompete.com

3. UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS — ESPECIALLY ON A FIRST ATTEMPT

So you have a very specific goal time based on an influencer who did it, what you did for a shorter event, or your most optimistic projection after a suspiciously good training week. Here’s the uncomfortable truth: you simply cannot race faster than you trained. It’s rare for someone to outperform their training. Your fitness has a ceiling, and that ceiling was built in training. Athletes who go in chasing a number they can’t support tend to make early decisions that cost them dearly later. Treat your first race, at any distance, as a data-collection event. Define success by execution quality. Did you nail your nutrition, manage your effort, and stay composed when it got hard? The PR comes later, once you know what you’re actually dealing with. Athletes take years to learn how to actually race a specific distance in any given sport. Expectations can take all the joy out of the experience.

4. LIFE STRESS LEADING INTO AN EVENT

Your body cannot tell the difference between a hard interval session, a brutal week at work, or the heavy load of a sick relative. To your nervous system, stress is stress — and it all draws from the same account. Cortisol suppresses immune function, disrupts sleep, and impairs glycogen replenishment, which your taper week is supposed to accomplish. Do your best to reduce life stress during the week, especially the last three days leading up to any goal event. Don’t leave race logistics up to the last minute. Don’t put yourself on a tight timeline. If you can keep it relatively chill, your fitness will do the talking on race day.

5. GOING OUT TOO HARD

This is the most universal mistake in endurance sport, and it has been destroying races since the dawn of time. You feel great at the start. Of course you do, you tapered. But when you exceed your aerobic threshold early, lactate accumulates, glycogen burns faster, and the debt you create must be repaid later, with interest. Race your plan. A power meter, a GPS watch, whatever your tool of choice, exists in part to protect you from your own enthusiasm. Use them to regulate your early effort. You can always drop the hammer in the final stretch if you feel good. But understand that the athlete who passes you in the first mile and the one who passes you in the last are having very different days.

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by

Wagner Osborne, Runner

24; Software Developer at International Paper; Volunteer Coach for Girls on the Run

I f RUNNING: Running has been how I’ve made my most meaningful friendships throughout my life, and they are also the relationships that have lasted the longest. I’m so thankful for Josh Clark and HyperFocus for giving me community in Memphis.

BUCKET LIST: I want to run the Great Lakes Relays or a Spartan race with a mix of Memphis friends and alums from my original high school cross country team.

UP NEXT: The St. Jude Memphis Marathon® Weekend in December is a lock as long as I am healthy — I’m going for the PR. I’m also thinking about running the Lane Purser Road Race Series again this summer to build fitness leading into St. Jude and hopefully make some progress with my 10K time.

FAV FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: Two moments stand out: running the Great Lakes Relays in high school through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with my cross country team — three days of racing over 30 miles through sand and the Michigan woods. Years later, I reunited with some of those same friends to run the 2022 Marine Corps Marathon together in DC. The fact that my best friends and I got to experience both challenges together was so special.

HOMETOWN: Naperville, Illinois

MY GROUP: HyperFocus Run Club

RECENT RACES: The St. Jude Half in December 2025; I placed 22nd female overall and fifth in the Female 20-24 age group. I also competed in the Lane Purser Road Race Series in Memphis in 2024, placing first in my age group (female, 20-24) and fourth female overall.

MOST MEMORABLE FITNESS EVENT: Racing the 2025 Charleston 10K Bridge Run with my brothers, Morgan and Soern. Sports have always been what bonded us, and living in different cities and not getting to see each other much, competing together, and crossing that finish line as siblings was awesome! Plus, our dad racing, too, was the cherry on top.

DREAM DINNER COMPANY: Dan Iverson, my high school crosscountry coach. He had a philosophy about sports that was so selfless. I’d love to catch up.

GO-TO GEAR: Hoka Bondi 9s, Garmin Forerunner 235, Barbell Pad, and a ginormous strawberry Monster energy drink.

INSPIRATION TO BE FIT: My sweet mom, Reba. The first pictures of my brothers and me are her running with us in strollers. She’s been active her whole life, and I want to be just like her.

QUOTE: “You didn’t come this far to only come this far.” - unknown

Justin Matias, Sprint Triathlons

32; Physical Therapist at Campbell Clinic

I f SPRINT TRIATHLONS: I love the individual effort it takes to train and stay disciplined, while the actual competitions are filled with camaraderie and encouragement from other athletes. No matter your fitness level, the sport’s sense of inclusivity pushes you to be your best self.

BUCKET LIST: My goal for this year is to put forth my best effort in my training as I prepare for the Age-Group World Championships for Sprint Triathlon in Pontevedra, Spain, this coming September. I plan to go with my family and look forward to exploring the culture in Barcelona and Madrid!

UP NEXT: I am currently training for the 2026 sprint triathlon race season, and the Tristar Triathlon in Knoxville. I will follow that with Age-Group Nationals in Milwaukee and then finish out the season with Age-Group World Championships.

FAV FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: Honestly, I am just happy to be able to keep moving forward. Being able to play with my family is definitely something I am proud of.

HOMETOWN: Woodbridge, VA

SPEED BUMPS: Growing up, I faced dozens of ankle sprains, back injuries, and patella dislocations requiring three knee surgeries and an ankle surgery. I was told by several surgeons that I would likely need knee replacement by my 40s. Then I faced a new set of challenges, major depressive episodes. I had to surround myself with peers and seek professional help to overcome thoughts I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. Now, I train to beat those odds.

MY GROUP: Team Zoot and Team USA

FAV JAMS: As a Virginia Tech Hokie, I almost always listen to “Enter Sandman” by Metallica on my way to a race. It gives me more than chills; it measures on the Seismograph in Blacksburg!

RECENT RACES: Annie Oakley Buffalo Bill Triathlon (second in age group); Memphis in May (first in age group); Music City Triathlon and DeGray Lake Triathlon (third in age group, 19th overall); Forrest Spence 5K (first in age group).

DREAM DINNER COMPANY: Steve Irwin. He was such an integral part of my childhood and genuinely seemed to care about his cause and his family.

INSPIRATION TO BE FIT: As a dad, I train, fuel, and challenge myself to set a positive example for my son. As a physical therapist, I’d say that remaining active is one of the best ways to preserve quality of life. I have the opportunity to see the fragility of life when sickness, injuries, and even progressive diseases impact life. It allows me to maintain a more level-headed perspective on what I can do.

ON MY NIGHTSTAND: “My Stroke of Insight” by Jill Bolte Taylor

PET PEEVE: I don’t like it when people judge others for what tires them without knowing what they’ve been through.

QUOTE: “You’re here for a reason.” – unknown

BECCA BROWN

44, Trainer at The Yard, LiveFIT 901, & personal training

FAV WAY TO WORKOUT:

Power Pilates, because it allows me to incorporate weights into traditional Pilates movements.

BIGGEST FITNESS MYTH:

You don’t have to go all out every single workout session. Some days you just need to know your body.

BIGGEST NUTRITION MYTH:

Most people think losing weight is about calorie intake, but it’s more about healthy foods and balanced meals for your own body. Just because one diet works for one doesn’t mean it will work for everyone.

MY ADVICE:

Photo by Tindall Stephens

Stay consistent in your diet and with your personal health goals.

MY FITNESS TIP:

Eat clean, whole foods. If you get off track with your food or workouts, it’s okay. Just pick it back up — don’t quit!

IF I COULD ONLY HAVE ONE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT:

Dumbbells, because you can incorporate them into almost every movement.

ALWAYS IN MY GYM BAG:

A water bottle and my earphones.

MY FITNESS INSPIRATION:

My husband, Hayden, who is also a coach. Watching him push other people inspires me to do better.

DREAM WORKOUT PARTNER:

My daughter, Bailey, who is a power Pilates instructor. Our sessions consist of us laughing while trying to figure out who could make it harder for the other person, because we’re both competitive!

GO-TO SNACK:

Protein balls are great!

DIET PHILOSOPHY:

My diet plan is tailored specifically to my goals and body type, ensuring a balanced approach.

ONE FOOD I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT: Steak!

WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED:

My clients and team at each gym.

NEWBIE ADVICE:

Stay focused on your goals, even on the hard days.

GOALS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD:

I want to stay healthy for both my children and myself. I enjoy working out.

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.

Roadshow BMW

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