As a physician, I always valued health and wellness, yet my own well-being often took a backseat. Between a hectic hospital schedule and caring for two young children, my time was stretched thin. My diet mainly consisted of processed foods and quick snacks, and while I occasionally attended cardio or bootcamp classes, consistency was nonexistent. I was constantly exhausted, lacked muscle tone, and struggled to shed postpartum weight. The wake-up call came in 2024, when my one-year-old daughter broke her leg—I found I barely had the strength to carry her or play with my three-year-old son while managing my demanding career.
Finding Structure with a Personal Coach
Recognizing the need for guidance, a friend introduced me to KMAK Fitness, an online program specializing in body recomposition through muscle growth, fat loss, strength training, and macro-based nutrition. Inspired by her transformation, I booked a consultation and connected with my coach, George Pearce. I committed to three virtual training sessions per week, starting with home workouts using dumbbells and free weights. Each 30- to 45-minute session focused on full-body compound movements, and I learned the importance of proper form. To boost daily activity, I also aimed for 10,000 steps each day.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Momentum
The first few weeks were tough—I felt sore, fatigued, and pressed for time. Yet George kept me accountable, teaching me that discipline trumps motivation. After three months, my muscle definition improved, my scale numbers dropped, and my energy and focus soared. Nutrition became a priority: I learned to count macros, increase protein intake, and swap processed foods for nutrient-rich options. Balancing macros took three months of practice, but the results were clear—I felt stronger, energized, and mentally sharper.
Progressing to Advanced Strength Training
Now, at 39, I maintain a routine of three weekly strength sessions and aim for 12,000 steps daily. George still programs my workouts, now at LifeTime, where I work with heavier weights and machines. Partnering with Cory McCue, a functional movement specialist, improved my mobility, balance, and functional strength. My sessions typically include six exercises per workout, three sets of 8–12 reps, and focus on progressive overload. Movements include squats, hip thrusts, Romanian deadlifts, dumbbell rows, pull-ups, and accessory exercises for balanced strength development.
After 70 It’s Not Walking or Gym Sessions This Specific Movement Pattern Truly Upgrades Healthspan
Consistency, Discipline, and Self-Care as Keys to Success
My transformation rests on three pillars. First, I follow a structured training plan, scheduling workouts like appointments to ensure consistency. Second, I prioritize discipline over fleeting motivation, understanding that even smaller efforts—like walking 10,000 steps or meal prepping—advance my goals. Third, I recognize the importance of self-care, committing to my well-being after years of neglect. Strength training has unlocked a new version of myself, allowing me to show up fully energized and present for work and family.
Life Transformation Beyond Fitness
Over the last two years, my strength journey has supported not only my fitness but my career and family life. As Medical Director at Moffitt Cancer Center, a research leader in immunotherapy, and founder of Tampa Female Physicians, I balance a demanding career with a fulfilling personal life. With a husband in critical care and two young children, structured movement and training have become the foundation for being strong, grounded, and fully present. My 30s were a decade of transformation, and as I enter my 40s, I look forward to continuing this journey of strength and growth.
