Meet Courtney, superstar instructor at FIT Austin. She’s a pup-lovin TRX and personal trainer who hails from Ventura, California but has also lived in London and now lives in Austin with her husband and fur children.  Read on to learn more about Courtney and how her love for fitness started the moment she took her first steps and how she unwinds after a long week.

What is your WHY? Why do you train people? I thrive off of being a part of people’s journeys. I think the chapter in life when people decide to get healthier or stronger is so inspiring and empowering. Whether it’s finding fitness due to an event, like a wedding or trip, to an upcoming 40th birthday, to preparing for a new life as a mother, I just love being a part of these life-changing chapters and witnessing people adopt healthier lifestyles.

How did you first get into fitness? Probably from the moment I could walk! I started walking at 9 months and had two older brothers who both played sports- I was probably chasing them! My parents have always been very active and when I was 13 they got a gym membership to LA Fitness. My dad and I would always go there to workout together, he definitely showed me the ropes!

What’s the best health/wellness advice you’ve ever received that has actually helped? Plan out your meals. Not necessarily meal prepping, just knowing what your week looks like meal-wise. I think I picked this up from my grandma. I grew up with an amazing jewish grandma who would always ask me what I wanted for lunch and dinner as I was taking my first bite of bagel and lox in the morning. I think it was her goal to get me to eat every other hour. It frustrated me then, but looking back she was right! You should always have an idea of what you are going to eat so you don’t end up in a drive thru or ordering a pizza on your way home from work. And skipping meals isn’t worth it. Always have a healthy snack ready.

What’s your favorite workout to do when you’re not teaching? Dog Walking

What’s the last song you listened to on Spotify (or iTunes, Pandora, etc.)? Ambitionz Az A Ridah by Tupac. I love rap and hip hop music so much- especially 90’s and early 2000’s.

Best thing in your fridge right now? Grandma’s Hummus

Go-to pre or post-workout snack? I work out really early and usually just have a double espresso as my pre workout. Post workout: ID Life Vegan Vanilla Bean protein shake.

Go-to morning beverage(s)? I drink so much liquid in the morning! First thing I have is a glass of water with lemon and himalayan salt, then I have a double espresso, more water and a protein shake. And most likely another double espresso.

Favorite splurge meal/dessert? Pepperoni and Jalapeno pizza- doesn’t matter where it’s from, I don’t discriminate against a good pie!

Where do you get your health/wellness information? (blog, website, podcast, etc.) I Google everything- I stumble across some pretty awesome articles and studies. I also listen to podcasts everyday. A few favorites for health/wellness are The Model Health Show, Move Your DNA and Found My Fitness.

Favorite way to unwind after a long day/week? Being at home with my husband, our two dogs and a large glass of wine. (or 3).