Best Bodies

Photo by Melissa Donald  FocusI worked 23 years in the health and fitness industry as a registered dietitian and personal trainer. Recently, I have left the fitness industry professionally and currently work part time so that I have more time to focus on my family and other pursuits. I love helping others understand how to improve their health and achieve positive change in their bodies and I continue to do this by example through my participation in physique competitions, as well as by providing nutrition and fitness guidance to those closest to me.Drive I’m motivated mainly [...]

Photo by Melissa DonaldLifestyle I completed my 200-hour teacher training in November, and it took three months to complete. My training was all day, every Saturday and Sunday for those three months. I also completed a yoga retreat recently. I practice almost every day of the week, which is what helps me prepare for more intensive workshops and practices. Beautiful Body I have two tattoos, the one on my right shoulder blade is a dancer with the lyrics “nothing’s gonna change my world.” It’s from Across the Universe by John Lennon. I got it when I was [...]

Photos by Melissa Donald  Big win I competed in the CrossFit Central East Regionals which is a high level CrossFit competition that you must qualify for through the CrossFit Open. I also qualified and competed at the American Open weightlifting meet in 2014. I had our first born, WIlliam Sawyer, about nine months ago which was probably the most challenging fitness experience but at the same time the most rewarding.Swears By CrossFit hits all the components of fitness and it is also fun. Being a college track athlete, I thrived in a team atmosphere and CrossFit is [...]

Photo by Melissa Donald Personal Best A new marathon personal best in April, of 3:07:30, for fourth-place female at the Carmel Marathon (Indiana). I committed myself to upholding my end of the deal: doing the work. There’s no questioning, second-guessing, or doubting. I just get out and do it.DriveEye on the prize! I remind myself of the goals I’ve set. You don’t get what you wish for — you get what you work for! GoalsTo break 3 hours in the marathon (6:52 per mile pace) and that’s what I’m working toward every day. #besthealthybodies

Photo by Melissa Donald Staying Strong In my adult life, about two years ago following a health diagnosis (MS), it became critical to me to take care of myself. Encouragement The community of women I work out with have become some of my most important relationships. We hold each other accountable and push each other. Triumph I’ve taken over 400 classes at B.You in less than two years. I’ve set goals along the way starting at 100, 250 and next 500.#besthealthybodies

Photo by Melissa Donald Motivation My husband, my kids and my family at our gym are my motivation every day! Every morning I get up with my husband at 4am to fix him breakfast before he heads to the gym. We typically read the workout for the day and he tells me his plan of attack. My plan of attack is to just get the kids up and make it to the gym to attack it in any way or form. If it weren’t for his excitement and asking how my workout went I wouldn’t be [...]