EMBODI Your Journey
Introducing Melanie and her story.
How did you get into fitness?
I actually got into fitness because of Mike during COVID. We had nothing else to do, all the gyms were closed, and luckily I had a garage gym with barbells and all the necessary weights so he introduced me to lifting. He taught me different exercises, corrected my form, and made it fun, which made it way less intimidating for someone who had never really worked out or played demanding sports before.
The only downside is that he pushes you every single day. I remember for four weeks straight he made me run a full mile in the scorching heat before we even started our workout, and for a girl who never trained like that it was extremely hard and frustrating, but I did it. That is really what built my foundation and changed my mindset around working out, and by the time gyms reopened I felt confident going by myself and completely comfortable in a gym.
You work in cybersecurity — what does a typical work week look like for you?
Working 40+ hours a week from home, minimal movements throughout my 9-5. During my work day I maybe get 950 steps since I’m always focused on the computer and I am usually very stressed with my work load.
With a demanding career, why is training still non-negotiable for you?
Working out has always been a part of who I am even more so when I started my career 5 years ago. WFH has its pros but I’m mostly stagnant during the day so moving my body either in the morning or after work is a need for me to feel good and rid stress from my body.
Do you see fitness as separate from your career — or as something that supports it?
Fitness is definitely separate from my career but my job supports my mental and physical health but gives subsidies to do fitness challenges, workout classes and gym memberships.
At 26, why do you think it’s important to prioritize your health now instead of “later”?
It’s so important to start building muscle early on to maximize my bone density as I age. My goal in life is to be 70 years old and being able to function and move and workout and run.
Do you think your 20s are about experimenting — or about building structure?
10000% about building structure, I believe moving your body early on will help with my aging, and longevity.
What pushed you to sign up for NYC HYROX?
I signed up for NYC HYROX because I wanted a challenge that would push me past my comfort zone and force me to level up physically and mentally.
Did preparing for HYROX change how you see your own limits?
Yes I always had a drive to do more for myself so when I complete my goals like HYROX I am more energized and enticed to do harder things.
What would you say to someone your age who says they’re “too busy” to eat well or train?
It’s an excuse. Coming from someone (me) who has made excuses for everything I can 100% say if you’re not meeting your nutrition goals and other goals it’s a lack of discipline not capability. If it’s possible you can do it, it depends on how badly you want it.
Do you think confidence is built in the gym?
Yes, I really do think confidence is built in the gym not just because of how your body changes, but because you prove to yourself that you can do hard things. Every workout is a promise you keep to yourself, and that discipline carries into every other area of your life.
What version of yourself are you becoming through this discipline?
I’m becoming the version of myself who follows through even when I’m tired, even when I don’t feel motivated. The disciplined, strong, mentally resilient woman who keeps promises to herself and shows up no matter what. You know why? Because I deserve it, but I have to earn it through discipline. The best things in life are earned through growth, not handed to you.
If someone your age wanted to “level up” their life, what role would health play?
Health would be the foundation of everything. You want to level up your life? Go to the gym. Be consistent. Be disciplined. If your body and mind aren’t strong, clear, and energized, it’s almost impossible to level up your career, relationships, or confidence.I genuinely can’t imagine not working out. I don’t understand how people live without it. It’s not just about getting your dream body; the physical health benefits, mental clarity, and overall energy boost make you feel so much better in every part of your life.
What would happen if you stopped prioritizing your health?
It would be detrimental to all aspects of my life. When I’m stressed with work I know I have to go to the gym that day to get a serotonin boost. I think I would be a lot more stressed and sad if I didn’t prioritize my health.