Born February 27, 1973
I am the second of three children, raised in an upper middle class family. I grew up on a small farm in a very rural area of the county. In other words, no city lights for miles and miles around! Our family is very close knit. One of the most predominant family values instilled in me, is to help my fellow man. Giving someone a helping hand, whenever possible, is very important to me.
I was given a very sheltered life. What I mean by that is, I went to a private Christian school. I participated in sports, such as basketball and ran with the track team. However, I didn’t excel in the sports very much, because I lacked the confidence I needed. (Even though I knew I had the raw skills.) I maintained a 3.8 GPA throughout high school and went on to college, and majored in Psychology. Even though I attained those accomplishments, I still did not have confidence in my athletic ability. I took a swimming class, ran 5 days a week to try and get in shape. Although I was very slender, I was not in good shape at all and that affected my self-esteem and attitude.
A job opportunity brought me to California. After moving here, I felt very down about the way I looked. (Although I tried hard not to let it show.) Because of my education, I decided to put into practice what I learned. I was determined to change my image and the overall way I felt about myself. So I started by changing my eating habits and learning about nutrition.
I started working out with weights. I also took up biking, along with running and 3 times a week, swimming. I met other people that enjoyed the same things that I enjoyed. This energy progressed into competing in Triathlons here in San Diego. One accomplishment after another, I could feel my confidence building. Two years later and two sponsors later, I felt great competing in the races.
I turned to training myself first; I set my goals and reached them through perseverance. My friends saw the change in me (healthy body, healthy attitude) and as my story was told, more and more people would ask me to help them too.
I decided to open up a personal training facility seven years ago. Throughout these years, Shape Up Studio has expanded to include plyometrics, pilates and sport specific training for clients ranging from stay at home moms, weekend warriors, high school athletes, professional athletes, professional sports teams and those who just value good health.
I also serve as the Strength and Conditioning coach for the San Diego Sunfire, a women's professional football team. The plyometric workouts I created have helped the team to get in the best game shape possible. I have also partnered with professionals who provide massage, facial and nutrition services by appointment to provide my clients with a complete personal wellness experience. Shape Up Studio has been featured on Fox6 News and Health and Fitness Magazine.
