From a young age, I was drawn to athletics. I thrived on competition and was laser-focused on shaving every possible fraction of a second off my times. Long before I understood how the body adapts to training, I was already spending my free time working out, determined to improve my performance. As a sprint-distance swimmer, every detail mattered—one small mistake could make all the difference. My training was designed to minimize those mistakes and give me every edge possible.

But along the way, I faced challenges that would reshape my understanding of fitness and performance. Throughout my swimming career, I struggled with recurring back injuries. These setbacks forced me to confront a difficult reality—recovery couldn’t be rushed. I couldn’t just push through the pain and hope for the best. Instead, I had to follow a structured plan to avoid further injury and ensure a safe return to the pool. For someone as competitive as I was, this was a tough lesson. There were times when I felt completely healed, only to face another setback. It was frustrating and discouraging, but it ultimately taught me one of the most valuable lessons of my life: true recovery takes patience, care, and intention.

My experiences with injury also opened my eyes to the broader picture of health and wellness. In addition to back problems, I learned how important it is to monitor and manage conditions like heart health. Many athletes, including myself, push their bodies to the limit without fully considering the impact of underlying medical concerns. Over time, I became more aware of the connection between overall health, heart function, and athletic performance. I realized that safely integrating exercise into recovery programs for clients with cardiac conditions or other health challenges was not just important—it was essential.

Today, as a personal trainer, I bring those lessons into my work. I’m deeply committed to helping my clients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and rebuild their strength safely. Whether they’re former athletes looking to regain their fitness or individuals managing chronic health conditions and their associated challenges, my goal is to empower them to take control of their health and fitness. Through thoughtful, individualized training programs and a focus on recovery, I help my clients move forward with confidence, knowing they’re supported every step of the way.