Growing up, owning a gym was never part of my plan. In fact, as an 11-year-old, my ambitions were either to become a veterinarian or, surprisingly, a Navy SEAL. In the years following 9/11, I had a desire to help others. I was fairly fit as an 11 year old as well as a proficient swimmer, which led me to set my sights on the SEALs. I didn’t yet understand the obstacles—like the fact that women couldn’t join the SEALs at that time or the intense demands of the role—but my young mind was captivated. My parents quietly supported my goals, even when I asked for the Navy SEAL Training Manual and a pull-up bar, which I used daily for nearly a year. It was through this regimen that I discovered a deep love for training—first for the discipline, and later, for the sense of purpose it brought in preparing my body and mind for challenges. Though my SEAL ambitions faded as I moved into high school, that purpose stayed with me.
High school brought its own set of challenges, and I struggled with depression. Although I continued working out, it wasn’t enough to overcome those dark days. The turning point came with Hot Yoga. Practicing yoga provided a profound sense of clarity, healing, and connection. I had a broken mind and body and it had become a purpose of healing for me.This discovery was so transformative that I pursued certification as a yoga instructor, starting me on a path that combined fitness and mental well-being. Yoga saved my mind. It began to slowly (this was not a quick process) reshape my mindset, alleviate a heavy chest and surround myself with individuals who needed no additional effort from me other than to be myself- a feeling of real love and genuine connection.
When I began college, I decided to major in Exercise Science, eager to understand the physical and psychological benefits of fitness. I continued to teach yoga and expanded my repertoire to include barre instruction and personal training, roles I loved. In my final year, a biomechanics professor introduced our class to CrossFit, and I was instantly captivated. CrossFit had the intensity and focus I loved from yoga but added a sense of camaraderie and playful challenge. My first workout, “Cindy,” left me sore for days. I completed it with jumping pull ups and couldn’t lift my arms for 2 days. I had never been so grateful for straws and water fountains, but I was hooked. With graduation approaching, I needed an internship to complete my degree, which led me to Real Fitness Sarasota (RFS).
At RFS, I spent my four-month internship asking countless questions, diving deep into every aspect of CrossFit—from technique to training philosophy. Over time, my passion for CrossFit grew as I saw how it resonated with my own values around fitness and community. I moved from intern to coach, later earning certifications in USA Weightlifting and CrossFit Level 1. Though coaching provided a solid foundation, I found myself wanting to contribute even more to RFS’s growth.
When Tanya, the owner, promoted me to manager and head coach, I took on responsibilities like programming and team leadership—challenging roles that forced me to grow quickly. Tanya was an invaluable mentor during this time, always encouraging me to stay resilient. Our partnership grew through mutual respect, shared vision, and complementary strengths. A bond that comes around what seems only a handful of times in life. When she eventually offered me the opportunity to become a co-owner of RFS, I was both excited and nervous. Despite the fear of “what ifs,” like I don’t have the income to support a business if things go wrong, I still panic when problems arise or what if I burn out? I realized that co-owning RFS meant more. What if we create a space that changes more lives, what if we help make fitness fun for more people, what if I’m a part of a business that SUPPORTS myself and future family… What if my purpose is to use what has improved my life and given me inspiration and truly have some control over how to bring a vision of that to others…SOLD.
In 2022, Tanya and I became business partners, and two years later, I’ve never felt more proud to be part of something so meaningful. RFS represents over a decade of hard work, growth, and commitment to fostering a supportive community. Looking back, I think my 11-year-old self would be proud to see where this journey has led. I’m grateful for everyone who’s been a part of this path and excited for what lies ahead as we continue inspiring others through fitness and community.
