My journey to becoming a personal trainer was not a straight line. After college, I worked in several different fields, struggling to find a fulfilling career path. However, I did love going to the gym and started teaching spin classes at the local YMCA in 2006. I remembered how much I enjoyed the sports conditioning I had done in high school and how strong and empowered I felt. I learned about Greg Justice, a long-established local trainer and owner of AYC Health & Fitness, who was offering something similar. So, I began training with him as a client. As I became increasingly dissatisfied with my current job(s), I had an "ah-ha!" moment. I realized I could have a job where I didn't have to sit behind a desk and could help people feel stronger, healthier, and more accomplished. In 2010, I went to Wellspring School of Allied Health in Kansas City, Missouri, and became a certified personal trainer. Greg was in need of another trainer, so he hired me.

Over those 13 years, I have worked with clients ranging from 8 years old to individuals over 90 years old. Because of this experience, I have become very adaptable with my programming. I tailor each workout to the needs and feelings of each individual on that particular day. I love being able to help clients get stronger, feel more mobile, and gain confidence. Whether it means assisting a 92-year-old in getting up more easily from a chair and feeling more stable while walking or helping a stressed and overworked 45-year-old decompress with a 30-minute HIIT workout.

In October 2022, I married my husband, Michael, and in October 2023, we moved to Arizona after he received a job offer here. This presented the perfect opportunity for me to start my fitness business, Above & Beyond Fitness LLC. 

In my free time, I enjoy riding my horse, Cisco, paddleboarding with my dog, Cricket, hiking, running, biking, camping, cooking, and traveling. Friends will also tell you that I am an excellent cookie baker. Yes, even trainers enjoy cookies!

*PWR!Moves® Certified Instructors are Parkinson disease-specialized exercise who integrate PD-specific

functional skill training into a multi-component group exercise class or personal training program.