Memphis Health+Fitness Magazine June 2024

At Regional One Health Cancer Care, the same physicians who help establish national standards for treatment and innovation also provide personalized treatment directly to patients. Our expert medical and surgical oncologists can deliver the comprehensive care Mid-South patients need to live full, healthy lives.

Dr. Muhammad Hamid, Dr. Swapna Thota and Dr. Noura Elsedawy are part of an exceptional team of hematologists. Ask your primary care provider for a referral to access elite cancer expertise right here in Memphis.

Sports injuries knocking you off your game?

Campbell Clinic is the go-to orthopaedic provider for athletes of all ages and skill levels. When you’re hurt, we’re the team that will get you back to your best.

Our sports medicine specialists create personalized treatment plans for a wide range of conditions, including:

• ACL, LCL, and PCL injuries

• Sprains and strains

• Shoulder dislocation and separation

• Knee spurs

• Hip arthritis, pain, and tears

• Biceps tendon rupture

• Runner’s knee

• Tennis/golf elbow And more

Walk-ins welcome – days, nights, and on the weekend.

Injuries can happen at any time. That’s why Campbell Clinic offers walk-in and after-hours care services at nine convenient locations. No appointment needed!

Scan here to find a location.

More than one-third of our community is directly impacted by obesity, putting Mid-Southerners at a higher risk of developing life-threatening conditions. Together, we can change this and help create a healthier and more active community. Are you up to the 1,000,000 pound challenge or simply want to live a more active life? Join the Healthier 901 movement today by downloading the free wellness app to track weight loss and access resources, events, partner discounts and more.

Amy Goode | Publisher

Amy is passionate about growing the health and fitness community, as she’s done for the last 28 years. Along with triathlons, cycling tours, and road/trail races, she’s marked off several bucket list marathons in Chicago and New York City. When not working out, she is always looking for the best cheat meal.

Angelique Nihen | Editor

Angelique is an editor, writer, graphic designer, and advertising/marketing professional. A long-time SAG-AFTRA member, she also works and performs professionally as an actress, singer, and dancer. A Temple University graduate, she enjoys swimming, biking, painting, sewing, reading, and traveling.

Tindall Stephens | Photographer

Tindall has been shooting for over 20 years, specializing in weddings and portraiture. She is a super busy mom of three teenagers,wife of a Memphis firefighter/Paramedic, and entertainer of two boston terriers …among running a full time photography business. Tindallfarmerphotography.com

Brooke Simpson | Photographer

Simpson is originally from Michigan and is a multimedia specialist who has been shooting photography over 8 years in a wide range from academia, sports, weddings and more. In her free time, she is a devoted wife and super mom to their 1yr old son, along with their two sassy dogs.

Zoe Harrison | Contributing Writer

Zoe is a biomedical engineer with a focus in medical writing, and has authored a number of publications in scientific journals. She is a native Memphian and is a passionate runner, yogi, and weightlifter. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and playing with her golden doodle, Sully.

Lucy Modzelewski | Contributing Writer

Lucy is a branding and marketing professional and native Memphian. An avid runner, she enjoys running on the Green Line with her husband and participating in races throughout the year.

Shlomit Ovadia | Contributing Writer

Shlomit Ovadia is a Content Strategist for a Colorado-based nonprofit, where she currently lives and enjoys all the outdoors lifestyle has to offer. In addition to her freelance work in writing and editing, Shlomit’s poetry and creative pieces have been published in various literary journals including Grande Dame Literary and Sad Girls Club Literary Blog.

Amanda Tompkins | Contributing Writer

Amanda Tompkins is a freelance writer living life part time above the arctic circle. She works as a remote village optometrist in the Northwest Arctic Borough of Alaska. When not in AK, she lives in Midtown Memphis with her family and three pups. She enjoys kickboxing, circuit training, camping, hiking, kayaking and mountain biking.

Jeremy Crooks | Digital Designer

Jeremy is a South Carolinian turned native Memphian with almost 15 years of digital and print design experience. As a passionate endurance athlete, he loves participating in marathons, triathlons, and even a good hike with his wife and two pups, Brooklyn and Chloe.

Delivering Care for Women

MOGA Wolfchase

MOGA DeSoto

MOGA Memphis (Formerly Opera Memphis)

Pickleball 901 Announces 2024 Summer Event Series Presented by Orion

Pickleball 901 is thrilled to announce the 2024 Pickleball 901 Summer Series presented by Orion Federal Credit Union. Building upon the success of last year’s inaugural event series, this year promises to be bigger and better.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to bring the Pickleball 901 Summer Series back to Memphis,” said Jakob Eliason, Co-founder of Pickleball 901. “Last year was just the beginning, and this year, alongside Orion, we’re gearing up for an unforgettable summer.”

The Pickleball 901 Summer Series features seven pop-up events at various Memphis locations. Each event features four pickleball courts, music, local food and beer, vendors, and a variety of other engaging activities. Pickleball is 100% free and open to individuals of all ages.

The Summer Series kicked off last month following the Orion 5K in the Edge District and concludes at the end of August. Most events span the whole weekend, with Saturdays featuring free pickleball for the public, followed by a Sunday tournament with a cash prize.

“Orion is excited to sponsor Pickleball 901 Summer Series Popups. A big part of Orion is being a big part of the community, and pickleball is a great community-building activity and becoming increasingly popular,” stated Casey Condra, Orion’s Chief Marketing Officer.

Additional sponsors for the Summer Series include Campbell Clinic Orthopaedics, Mahaffey Tent and Event Rentals, Ashley Furniture Homestore, and PickleballCentral.com.

Don’t miss out on the hottest summer series in Memphis! Join Pickleball 901 and Orion for an unforgettable season of fun, competition, and community.

Follow Pickleball 901 on Facebook and Instagram for updates and announcements, or subscribe to the newsletter at Pickleball901.com.

The Ed Murphey Classic Returns

Returning to the University of Memphis Billy J. Murphey Track and Soccer Complex this summer for the eighth annual event in Memphis, TN, is the Ed Murphey Classic! The meet, being held July 11-13, has grown exponentially over the past seven years, and the 2024 edition will debut a new three-day format with field events on Thursday, track events on Friday, and the famous Beale Street Pole Vault and Road Mile on Saturday!

The Ed Murphey Classic began as a small event that has blossomed into a world-class competition. In 2023, the Ed Murphey Classic gained international recognition, ranking 25th globally and fifth nationally based on outstanding performances witnessed during the event. Moreover, the Murphey Classic is not just a track and field event; it’s a cornerstone of empowering Memphis youth towards healthier lifestyles. With the mission of the Murphey Track Club at its heart, this event offers no-cost clinics, coaching, and competition opportunities for local youth. By providing access to world-class athletes, the Classic aims to inspire and motivate young athletes in the Memphis area, ultimately keeping them on the right track in sports and life.

Launched in 2023, the Murphey Track Club further solidifies its commitment to the community by offering free coaching, uniforms, refreshments, and mentorship opportunities. By strategically locating practice sites in low-income areas, the club ensures accessibility for all, breaking down transportation barriers and fostering inclusivity.

The Murphey Track Club’s impact also extends well beyond the track. Through track and field clinics, the club collaborates with Memphis Shelby County Schools to provide inner-city kids with exposure to new disciplines and skill enhancements under the guidance of expert coaches.

Similarly, the Ed Murphey Classic doesn’t just stop at hosting a professional event. Proceeds from the Classic are reinvested into the community through various outreach efforts. From providing essential equipment to local schools to supporting initiatives like the Shelby County Metro Track & Field camp, the Classic is a beacon of support, promoting youth development and community engagement every step of the way.

To learn more, visit Edmurpheyclassic.com.

Origin Opens Pelvic Health Clinic in Memphis, Helping Thousands of Memphis Women

Origin, the leading U.S. provider of women’s health and pelvic floor physical therapy, recently opened a pelvic floor physical

therapy clinic in Bartlett. This is important news for the 1 in 3 Memphis women who are struggling with pelvic floor dysfunction as a result of pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.

This expansion offers Memphis citizens the ability to attend in-person PT sessions covered by insurance and supported by proprietary exercise programs, educational content, and community experiences. Additionally, we are one of the few in-network private practices that offer these vital services.

Origin’s unique approach to preventing and treating complications associated with maternity and physical therapy alone for new mothers can result in major reductions in

postpartum complications such as pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence, and cesarean recovery. And, since Tennessee is one of the states with some of the worst trends in maternal mortality, millions of Tennessee women can benefit from Origin’s services.

Origin, founded by Carine Carmy, Nona Farahnik Yadegar, and David Yadegar, is spearheading the charge on better holistic health and pelvic floor education for women and was recently mentioned by The New York Times, Goop, the Los Angeles Times, and Real Simple. Pelvic floor health is now in the mainstream and should be a standard for women’s clinics nationwide.

For more information, please visit Theoriginway.com or @theoriginway.

Alice Miller Anneliese Szatkowski

Hydrating Oxygen Facial

West Fight On to Raise Funds for West Cancer Foundation

The twelfth annual West Fight On, a walk, run, and cycling event to raise funds for the West Cancer Foundation, is scheduled for September 7, 2024, at Shelby Farms Park. With a mission to break through barriers to cancer care and improve patient outcomes, West Cancer Foundation aims to provide accessible patient resources, early detection and education, and research to improve health inequities. The nonprofit organization provides free cancer services to those in need, including cancer screenings, transportation to and from treatment appointments, lymphedema garments, and post-mastectomy prostheses, garments, and wigs.

West Fight On, Memphis’ largest cancer survivor event, is sponsored by Sedgwick and First Horizon Foundation. The annual fundraising event has raised over $2 million to provide free cancer services, benefiting more than 8,700 in our community.

West Fight On offers a diverse range of activities to cater to different interests and fitness levels. It features three different cycling routes — 20, 40 and 60 mile — a 5K run/walk, and a one-mile tribute walk. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a casual runner, or simply want to show your support with a leisurely walk, there’s something for everyone at West Fight On.

“Every year, we’re thrilled to see more and more of our community come together and participate in West Fight On,” said Leighanne Soden, West Cancer Foundation President. “Whether it’s cycling, running, walking, or just attending to enjoy the festivities, we have something for everyone. It’s wonderful to see so many passionate people come together to support our mission, celebrate their cancer victories, or honor a loved one.”

To learn more and register, please visit westfighton.org, and those interested in volunteering can visit Westcancerfoundation.org/volunteer/.

By Dr. Bilawal Ahmed

Screenings Help Men Safeguard Their Health

When men worry about their health, heart disease, prostate problems, and colorectal cancer are significant areas of concern.

These conditions require a serious approach, but the good news is that screening is easy, readily available, and highly effective.

Cardiology

Heart disease is the leading cause of death among men in the United States, but it can often be managed or prevented. In my cardiology practice, I use screening to diagnose issues early and help through medication, lifestyle changes, etc.

You should have blood pressure and cholesterol screenings at annual primary care visits. If these tests are normal and you don’t have symptoms or risk factors, you won’t need more testing.

Patients with high blood pressure or cholesterol, symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath, and risk factors like obesity, diabetes, or family history may be referred to a cardiologist. We offer indepth screening using X-ray, CT, MRI, angiogram, and more.

Your screening plan is based on your symptoms and risk factors.

For example, calcium scoring tests use CT to look for deposits that can cause clogged arteries. An electrocardiogram shows if your heart beats effectively and if you have rhythm abnormalities. An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to evaluate problems with your heart valves. Stress testing tests the heart at work, so you exercise while we measure blood pressure and heart rate.

We also have tests for specific conditions like atrial fibrillation and abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Talk to your provider about your screening needs so you can stay on top of your heart health!

Colonoscopy

When it comes to colorectal cancer, screening can prevent a serious diagnosis.

As a gastroenterologist, I know colonoscopies aren’t popular, but they truly save lives because we can remove polyps before they become cancerous. Even if we find cancer, identifying it early makes it much easier to treat with better outcomes.

Average-risk patients should have their first colonoscopy at age 45. If we don’t find anything, you’ll only need to repeat the test every ten years through age 75.

If you’re high-risk due to a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or a personal history of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, you may need a first colonoscopy sooner and more frequent tests. I encourage all men to talk to their providers about their specific needs.

Prostate Screening

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, but there is excellent screening to catch the disease while it’s

still highly treatable. As a medical oncologist, I urge men to take advantage of screening, especially as their risk increases with age.

A prostate-specific antigen test is done by a simple blood draw. Men should have the test starting at age 50 during their annual primary care visit or earlier if they are high-risk.

The test measures the level of ProstateSpecific Antigen in the blood. Patients with high levels usually need additional testing, such as a prostate MRI and biopsy. High-risk patients may also qualify for genetic testing.

If you catch prostate cancer early, you might only need surveillance. Even if you need surgery, radiation, or both, earlystage prostate cancer is often curable.

Learn more!

Regional One Health provides multispecialty care to help men improve their health.

For appointments with cardiologist Dr. Showkat Haji and gastroenterologist Dr. Leonard Baidoo, call 901.545.6969. For appointments with medical oncologist Dr. Bilawal Ahmed, call 901.515.HOPE (4673).

By Shlomit Ovadia

Key Facts about Prostate Cancer

Dr. Sal Vasireddy has worked for over two decades as a Medical Oncologist and Hematologist in Memphis. Working at Baptist Cancer Center, he guides patients through treatment plans and administers systemic therapies. Below, Dr. Vasireddy shares some facts about prostate cancer that everyone should know.

Where is the prostate gland located?

The prostate gland, which sits below the bladder and secretes seminal fluid, is about the size of a walnut, on average measuring 4x3x2 centimeters.

Who is at risk for prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the United States. The most important risk factors are increasing age, ethnicity, genetics, and possibly dietary factors. Many cases are asymptomatic, and the disease progresses slowly.

At what age should I begin screening?

Talk with your healthcare provider about the best time to begin screening. While most men with average risk may begin testing annually at age 50, those with a genetic predisposition (BRCA 1, BRCA 2, Lynch Syndrome) may want to start screening at age 40.

What tests are there for prostate

cancer?

What happens if the PSA level isn’t in the normal range?

If the PSA level is elevated, your healthcare provider may refer you to a urologist, a medical doctor specializing in conditions affecting the urinary tract and reproductive systems. They may recommend a biopsy of the prostate gland to confirm if cancer is present, followed by imaging studies to help determine the stage.

What treatment options do I have if prostate cancer is diagnosed?

If prostate cancer is confirmed, treatment options could be watchful waiting or active surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy, radiopharmaceutical therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and potentially chemotherapy in the later stages if the tumor has progressed.

How serious is a prostate cancer diagnosis?

Survival rates for prostate cancer vary based on several factors including stage and grade of the cancer, as well as the patient’s age and general health. The five-year relative survival rate is nearly 100% for patients with local or regional prostate cancer; However, this decreases dramatically if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. As with any cancer, early detection and treatment most often provide the best long-term survival rates.

Testing is commonly performed by checking the blood for prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein produced by cells in the prostate gland, both normal and cancerous. The PSA is often elevated in people with prostate cancer, but several noncancerous conditions may also cause the PSA level to be elevated. For more information or to setup an appointment with Dr. Sailendra Vasireddy visit Baptistcancercenter.com or call 901.752.6131.

FATHER'S DAY GIFT GUIDE

Treat dad this Father’s Day with thoughtful gifts he’ll be sure to love.

VICTORY BICYCLE STUDIO

SWEET PROTECTION HELMETS

Upgrade your biking experience to ride with confidence. These sleek, lightweight helmets offer an elevated look with added safety and convenient sunglasses storage. They start at $229.

SCOTT ADDICT GRAVEL 30

Our best-seller returns with a fresh color palette and an even more enticing price tag of just $3,500. Unleash your gravel adventures with wireless SRAM shifting, generous tire clearance, and an endurance fit for maximum comfort during long rides.

CASTELLI ESPRESSO JERSEY AND SHORTS

Luxury meets performance with this new, sophisticated athletic clothing collection. Now, you can look and feel better than ever before. The jersey is $139, and the bib shorts are $159.

GRIVET OUTDOORS

YETI RAMBLER 30 OZ. TUMBLER

Cup-holder compatible and dishwasher safe, the YETI rambler is the perfect all-day mug for keeping drinks hot or cold.

BROOKS MEN’S GHOST 16 RUNNING SHOE

Perfect for road running, walking, or daily wear, the new and improved Brooks Ghost 16 running shoe delivers an enhanced upper and softer cushion for a smoother experience.

HYDRO FLASK TUMBLERS

Like a Stanley, but better: 40 oz. with a removable straw to keep your beverages colder or hotter for longer. $45

GARMIN 165 / 265 GPS

This smartwatch is perfect for running, with a touch screen and a new AMOLED display. $250- $450

FLEET FEET LANSKY BROS.

THE RUNWELL 41MMGREEN SHINOLA

This classic gift will have your dad grinning from ear to ear. With rich tones, extra protection from scratches, a solid stainless steel case, and several other noteworthy features, this timepiece promises a one-of-a-kind look.

ON CLOUDTEC

Indulge in the CloudTec ® for massive cushioning and maximum energy when riding on the road or on other outdoor adventures.

OUTDOORS INC.

PATAGONIA MEN’S A/C BUTTON DOWN

These lightweight, 100% organic cotton crinkle shirts lift the A/C® Shirt away from the skin for cooling airflow. The clean styling and side vents provide a greater range of motion, making it suitable for casual hangouts and the workplace.

BENCHMADE MINI ADIRA WATER KNIFE

These drop-point blade knives are made of CPM ® -MagnaCut stainless steel and have a smooth-action AXIS® Lock mechanism, perfect for fishing or boating-related tasks — specifically designed for use in wet environments.

TEVA MEN’S HYDRATREK SANDAL

Enjoy next-level grip for your water-fueled adventures. This sandal’s unique design maximizes surface area and allows ample water dispersion underfoot to keep you grounded. It also features a spongy, textured top sole and padded straps.

protected, polarized, lightweight, and non-slip so they stay on when

HOKA SHOES

Treat dad to max cushioned running, walking, and comfort shoes from HOKA, On, and Brooks. All support types. We fit shoes! $140-$180.

BREAKAWAY RUNNING LATTING

BOOKMAN URBAN VISIBILITY VOLUME 1500 HEADLIGHT

This bike light provides 1500 lumens of light and can run for up to 34 hours. Plus, they have a little dial that clicks to change modes; this simple gift is sure to make dad smile. $150)

OAKLEY THURSO SUNGLASSES

SPEED SHOP

A great gift for the dad who looks to out-accessorize other dads, these sleek, everyday glasses come with polarized and non-polarized lenses $220- $270.

KASK SINTESI HELMET

This best-selling helmet offers unmatched comfort and timeless Italian design. $120.

PAS NORMAL ESSENTIAL LIGHT BIB

These light and breathable shorts fit more forgiving than other race bibs while boasting extra padding and pockets to store away snacks. $280

Neurofeedback is a non-invasive, drug-free therapy that uses continuous, real-time data from a QEEG brainmap to help children reduce symptoms and improve function by re-training their brainwave habits.

QEEG Neurofeedback is one of the most powerful and safe tools and is proven to last years after treatment.

NeuroSource is your Brain Training Team with over 30 years experience! – Autism – PTSD – Concussion/Brain Injuries – Anxiety – Seizure Disorders – Sleep Issues and more

By Shlomit Ovadia

Photo by Tindall Stephens

RECOVER LIKE AN ATHLETE

Drew Graham, 52, is all about finding ways to keep exercise alive and exciting without injury. In a career-breaking collaboration with Campbell Clinic, Drew developed Accel Performance and Wellness, which aims to equip the everyday person with athletelevel sports performance and recovery services.

Drew always enjoyed being active. He played football, basketball, and baseball year-round in high school sports, sustaining the occasional injury that landed him in the offices of physical therapists and athletic trainers.

“The times I got hurt, it was interesting to see how my body worked and understand how anatomy can heal and what it takes,” Drew says of his initial piqued interest.

Drew received his Bachelor of Science in Secondary Health Education with an emphasis in Athletic Training at Ohio State University, where he learned more about how the body heals and the processes it goes through.

“I was always around high-level athletes and training and working with them,” Drew explains. “It’s always been part of my world.” He even met his wife of 24 years, Susan, an Ohio State soccer athlete, through his work training the school’s hockey, football, and baseball teams.

After completing his Master of Science in Human Movement, Drew spent 17 seasons working with the National Basketball Association and other national league teams, including the Cincinnati Bengals, Memphis Grizzlies, New Jersey Nets, and others, in various positions related to athletic training, offseason workouts and conditioning, and rehabilitation and nutritional needs.

That’s when Campbell Clinic approached him. “They were building a performance training facility and wanted to see if it was worth developing.”

After a few months of consulting with Drew, the Campbell Clinic hired him to make it happen.

“I always wanted to have an environment where people could get better. I like the healing process of seeing people who are hurt get back and be fit as ever or more.”

Accel Performance and Wellness provides all amenities under one roof —training and recovery. “We’re not training for an event; we’re training for life,” Drew emphasizes.

ACCEL’s core tenets of flexibility, mobility, and stability equip all patients with the skills and ability to prevent injury while moving toward their goals.

“Our bodies get tighter as we age; typically, that’s the breakdown of injury. If we consistently work on those factors, we will prevent injuries over time.”

ACCEL differs from other fitness centers because it observes movement patterns to build corrective exercises that help with impairments. Its small group classes provide a high level of coaching similar to personal training.

“Most people, especially men, tend to train in isolated exercises as opposed to compound movements, and it can certainly contribute to movement restrictions. That routine rut will lead to overcompensation of certain muscles or joints,” meaning limited mobility and greater inclination towards injury.

ACCEL focuses on technique and creates intelligently formulated workouts that push you. This is combined with smart recovery techniques like cryotherapy, compression boots, hot and cold water exposure, and more.

True to his passion, Drew follows ACCEL’s training program and movement-based exercises four to five days a week, mixing strength-based workouts with a few cardio-focused, high-intensity models. His sons Nicholas (16) and Andrew (17) are active in school sports and join their dad at ACCEL for workouts or opt for ACCEL’s small group training classes.

For the Graham’s, fitness is a lifestyle, and the family often takes active summer vacations at National parks including Yellowstone, Cascade Mountains, and Grand Canyon. Next year, they have their eyes set on the Grand Tetons.

“Be creative, change your routines, get uncomfortable sometimes, and embrace change to develop better movement patterns. It will ultimately make you feel better.”

To learn more or to join ACCEL, visit Accelperformance.com.

“We’re not training for an event; we’re training for life”

By Shlomit Ovadia

Photo by Brooke Simpson

Navigating Unchartered Territory of Men’s Health

Memphis native Dr. Justin Dodson is paving the way for men’s mental health in Memphis and beyond with his new therapy services, which are focused on empowering the next generation.

After graduating with a Master of Counseling from Lipscomb University and a PhD in Counselor Supervision and Education from the University of Memphis as the first African American from both programs, Justin began his career working with delinquent men and troubled youth in different capacities.

“What I recognized as a commonality in those places designed to be supporting men was instead leaving them with a lack of emotional intelligence, inability to process emotions, and punishing them for having feelings,” he explains.

During his doctoral research, Justin’s curiosity was piqued when he discovered a difference between men and women in the onset of mental disorders. It got him thinking about how to fill that gap.

“Men often have this internal narrative that masculinity means being hard and aggressive and just providing.” Despite men and women having the same emotional needs, “men tend to get overlooked, leading to suppressive feelings and problematic behavior.”

Justin’s understanding of this runs deep. His father passed away the day before his tenth birthday, forcing him into many parental roles and responsibilities, making no room for childhood vulnerabilities.

“The purpose of my practice is to provide a safe space for men to feel seen, heard, and challenged”

“That experience shaped the way I saw mental health because when I reflected on it, I had some unmet needs. As I grew up, I tried to make sense of a lot of that.”

During the pandemic, Justin left his work behind in residential treatment and larger-scale clinical services to pursue his dream of direct work as a mental health clinician.

“My definition of success changed,” reflects Justin, of founding his practice, Navigating Courage Counseling and Consulting, which started with just nine clients he would see in the evenings after work.

Since 2020, the practice has grown exponentially, and just last month opened an office.

Justin often describes men’s health as “unchartered territory” because “men haven’t consistently been afforded the same emotional opportunities” as women.

“The purpose of my practice is to provide a safe space for men to feel seen, heard, and challenged,” Justin tells me.

Through his research, observations, and lived experiences, Justin believes that by learning conflict resolution, compassion, and addressing limited problem-solving skills, he can interrupt unhealthy behavior patterns for generations to come.

“I hope to consistently create a community where men are heard, held accountable, and comfortable being themselves while increasing their emotional intelligence and developing healthy coping.”

Less than 4% of all mental health clinicians are male. Justin hopes his all-male staff and clinical team of minority male therapists provide experiential opportunities for those pursuing this line of work and normalize seeing men in caring and nurturing roles.

When I asked Justin what he thinks of men afraid of therapy ‘softening’ them, he says, “I would challenge them to reevaluate their definition of manhood and masculinity to be one they create, and not one lived by someone else’s expectations. Being in touch with your emotions makes you more powerful and in control. That’s the real flex.”

Navigatingcouragecac.com IG: itsdrjkeith

By

Amanda Tompkins

Photo by Tindall Stephens

CONQUERING THE UNTHINKABLE AND RECLAIMING LIFE

Jason Mayo is a husband, father, brother, cyclist, and enthusiastic lover of life.

In June 2017, as life was in full swing, he gained another title, one he hadn’t signed up for: “cancer patient.” What had started as a small sore in his mouth became a life-changing milestone. A biopsy showed that it was cancer and that it had spread to local regions within his neck. The first line of defense was surgery, and he was referred to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX, one of the top cancer institutions in the country.

After his surgery to remove the tumor in October 2017, Jason came home and began his radiation and chemotherapy treatments at West Cancer Center. He describes his recovery in brutal detail, the most haunting of which was the length of time he spent unable to eat properly — the majority of 2018. “Because it was surgery on my neck and throat, it was almost impossible to eat, and I lost a lot of weight.”

In August 2018, as he began re-entering normal life, he spotted an unusual mole on his skin. Jason sought care with his previous surgeon at MD Anderson Cancer Center. When he received a call directly from his doctor with biopsy results, he knew the news was not good. The pathology report confirmed melanoma, and he immediately began immunotherapy. The following year was punctuated by twelve rounds of treatment, each followed by a week of sickness. After a year of treatments, he was finally all clear in Fall 2019, narrowly missing the onslaught of the global pandemic.

As a two-time cancer survivor, Jason is determined to live a life that is “better than ever.” Before 2018, he was generally active in cycling and running with his wife, but he has transcended to another level since making it through his health crises. Just a few months after his last treatment in 2019, Jason tried something new and signed up to compete in the 2020 Ironman 70.3 Memphis event to get back into the groove. Unfortunately, the event was canceled due to COVID-19, but he continued to train. When an injury during training limited his option for running, Jason began cycling more.

Jason now rides with his wife thrice weekly with the Knucklehead Cycling group in Germantown. He even signed up for the Silver Rush Series, a 50-mile mountain bike race in Leadville, Colorado, in early July 2024 — a race he saw while watching a documentary.

It’s hard to fathom getting back up after life delivers back-to-back blows, but Jason lives by the philosophy that there’s always a silver lining. Now, he seeks out new opportunities, feeding off the inherent challenges in these endeavors of the unknown. To others struggling to get back to life after a crisis, he encourages indulging in life’s challenges and advises, “Sign up for the race that scares you.”

To learn more, visit MDanderson.org or Westcancercenter.org.

By Amanda Tompkins

FROM ALLEYS TO ACES: Becoming a Professional Tennis Player FROM ALLEYS TO ACES: Becoming a Professional Tennis Player

Photo by Tindall Stephens

Giovanni Plater was 14 and scheduled to try out for his high school track team. Sitting on the bench, watching the others and waiting for his turn, he noticed a man at the nearby tennis court practicing his serve. It caught his attention, and instead of taking his turn in tryouts, he walked over to join the man. It was his first time on a tennis court. He attempted the same hits but, to his chagrin, was unsuccessful. He hit every ball over the tennis court fence and, ironically, onto the track. That was the moment Gio became a tennis player.

Before his years on the tennis court, he was a pro at a different, more unlikely sport — bowling. Growing up in a family of bowlers, he began chasing strikes when he was four. “Bowling was more than just a social activity for us. Growing up in Ohio, the winters were always very cold, and bowling was something we could do year-round.” By the time he reached college, he had received letters from universities asking him to play on their teams, but Gio had another dream.

Accustomed to success in his sporting life, he was outside his comfort zone on the tennis court. “I hated the feeling of not being good at something, and I got the bug.” From that day forward, he was determined to be great at tennis. “I was on the court every day that it wasn’t raining. There were days that I played from noon until 7 p.m.” He would ride his bike or walk to the local courts and play for hours daily. His dedication and consistency paid off exponentially, and he was able to play for his college team at Benedict College in South Carolina, where he graduated in 2014.

“I’ve always been average at everything I’ve done, but I always want to be great. I know all I have to do is push.” This life persuasion has proven to be the driving force behind his tennis success. Following graduation, he moved to Memphis with his college tennis teammates and soon began playing in International Tennis Federation tournaments. He competed in Guadalajara (2014) and Manzanillo (2016), Mexico. And, most recently, with a local team of players from Memphis, Mississippi, and Arkansas, won the United States Tennis Association Men’s 4.5 National Tournament (2023).

His advice for being great? “Do normal things an abnormal amount of times.” He shares this philosophy with his students as well at Windyke Country Club in Memphis, where he offers lessons and clinics Monday through Saturday. He tells his students, “You don’t have to be extraordinary; just do the ordinary an extra amount of times. Be brilliant with the basics, and from there, you can find greatness.”

For more information about signing up for classes visit: Windyke.com/tennis.

By

Zoe Harrison

Photo by Tindall Stephens

DEFYING AGE THROUGH BODYBUILDING

John Asbury, 61, realized about ten years ago that he was ready to prioritize his fitness. Though he remained fit in his younger years through skateboarding, he found that he did not find time to make it to the gym in his adult life as a devoted husband and father with a demanding career as a restaurant manager. This changed when he realized that his employer was providing him with a wellness stipend that was going to waste, and he decided to get a gym membership.

John began going to the gym and lifting weights for 15-20 minutes, though he knew little about the sport or how to improve his physique. He took his fitness education into his own hands by reading articles and watching fitness videos on YouTube and Instagram. After about five years of self-education and seeing his progress, John decided to further enhance his fitness knowledge by becoming certified as a personal trainer. While he initially began his journey as a trainer to educate himself, John quickly realized he had a true passion for helping others. “Meeting clients who say they hate the gym, and then seeing them get the ‘fitness bug’ and learn to love the gym like I do is so rewarding,” John says.

Through his experience weightlifting and as a personal trainer, John has found the best three areas to focus on are workouts, nutrition, and recovery — not in that order. Contrary to his initial belief that the gym is the most challenging part of training, John now recognizes it’s the fun and easy part, whereas building in the appropriate nutrition and rest is more difficult. “When I started, I went to the gym late at night after my family went to bed so I did not miss any time with them. However, coming home late, I realized I was not getting the rest and recovery I needed,” he remembers.

Within the past couple of years, John decided to take his passion to the next level by training for bodybuilding competitions. He began working with a coach to help prepare him, which required a major focus on nutrition and training. While this was a challenge, John thrived, mainly due to his amazing support system at home. From helping with his meal prep, encouraging his gym time, and listening to his struggles during his training, John does not think he would have found much success in bodybuilding without his family. “Without a good support system, you may get stressed, and the cortisol caused by that stress will eat up your results and make all your hard work pretty useless,” he says.

After competing in his first bodybuilding competition in May 2024, John is already looking forward to competing again next year and spending the rest of 2024 training hard in preparation. In the meantime, John plans to continue to enjoy feeling better than ever. “Age is just a number. My body feels better than when I was

in my 20s. I feel more confident and have a better mental attitude than ever at 61,” John says.

John continues to train clients at his favorite gym, The Yard in Arlington, working primarily with clients his age or older looking for better strength, stability, and functionality. John is also especially passionate about working with special needs clients, focusing on finding ways to help them feel good in their bodies while having fun exercising. Most recently, John was nominated to compete in Mr. Health and Fitness, a national bodybuilding competition where supporters can vote online to help him win.

Find John on Instagram @southern.iron.fitness to see his fitness content or to inquire about training. You can also vote for him to become Mr. Health and Fitness at Mrhealthandfit.com/2024/john-asbury

By Zoe

RUNNING FROM UNHEALTHY HABITS

Harrison

Photo by Tindall Stephens

Brandon Eulls Jr., 22, is a born and raised Memphian who has pulled himself from unhealthy habits to become a competitive runner. Brandon grew up playing football and reflects that he was always a big kid, though his weight would often fluctuate. After high school, no longer playing sports regularly, Brandon started gaining more weight and weighed over 330 pounds at his heaviest. In 2021, after seeing a photo of himself with friends, Brandon decided to take action and become a healthier version of himself. “I had been in denial about my weight gain, but once I saw that photo, I needed to do something different,” he says.

Though he began focusing more on his diet and exercise in 2021, Brandon was inconsistent and did not have a fitness community to connect with, and consequently saw his weight continue to fluctuate. After physical symptoms, pain, and depression became more prevalent, Brandon’s mom recommended that he try a weight loss clinic to receive professional guidance. In November 2022, Brandon consulted NexGen Wellness in Bartlett and was prescribed weight loss medication, which has since changed Brandon’s life. “I was skeptical at first, but am now so thankful I gave it a try,” he remembers.

Brandon’s medication helped to curb his appetite, and he found it much easier to stick to a healthy diet. Within four months, Brandon had lost 40 pounds and felt much better physically and mentally. He was also back in the gym doing cardio and took regular progress photos to see the effects of his hard work.

After months of doing cardio at the gym, Brandon felt inspired to try running outdoors and racing. He signed up for the Great American River Run 10K in 2023 and was immediately hooked on racing. “I found that I really love running with a group and having a fun, challenging race coming up to train for,” he says.

In the summer of 2023, Brandon started running with the Trail Trippers and this spring with the Hyper Focus running group. “I love the sense of community I found with these running groups, and running with them inspires me to train harder and be consistent,” Brandon says. After running his first 10K in 2023, Brandon has raced in half marathons and is now training for his first full marathon.

Now, having lost over 80 pounds and racing regularly, Brandon’s advice for others struggling to get healthy is to take action. “My whole life, physically and mentally, has improved so much since I decided to get healthy. If you are struggling, do not hesitate to look for health professionals or local communities that can inspire you to be your best,” he says.

Interested in joining a group run? Check out @hyperfocusrun and @trailtrippers on Instagram.

By Zoe Harrison

Photo by Jose Oliva Martinez

CLIMBING TO COMMUNITY CONNECTION, MENTAL CLARITY, AND PEAK FITNESS

By the time he was in high school, Chris Coles had become a selfproclaimed “indoor kid,” spending his time in high school as a professional video game player and traveling the country to win gaming competitions. While you can still find Chris traveling, he has found a new passion to fuel him: his love for outdoor climbing.

From Memphis, Chris remembers not being especially drawn to sports as a kid, though he did enjoy exploring in his younger years as a boy scout. Throughout his teenage years, Chris instead found he was incredibly skilled at video games and set a Guinness world record for gaming in Memphis in 2012.

In his mid to late 20s, Chris recognized he was out of shape, overweight, and uncomfortable and decided it was time to make a change. “I started to realize I shouldn’t be feeling like this, and there was more I could do than just accept that I’m aging,” he remembers. Chris began to focus on his nutrition by implementing the keto diet and lost over 40 pounds. With a new sense of comfort in his body, he started considering ways to get active.

In May 2019, Chris decided to try out High Point Climbing Gym with his mom, as it was an activity they could do together. He immediately found it fun and exciting and saw that he had a natural ability for climbing. Soon, Chris was going to High Point regularly and fell in love with the sport and the climbing community.

Now, Chris is passionate about outdoor climbing. “It has become the gateway for adventure in my life,” he says. Thus, he assembled a group of 25 like-minded climbers who love traveling and adventuring as much as he does, called Broham Jam. In the past year, Chris and his climbing friends have traveled the country to climb in Arkansas, Alabama, East Tennessee, Southern Illinois, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Arizona. They also went to France to gain a global perspective on climbing and to experience it in different environments and cultures. “The advantage of Memphis is that it is centrally located to so many great climbing spots, and the community here is so familial and supportive,” Chris says. Chris recently placed third in the advanced category of the 24hour climbing competition known as “24 Hours of Horseshoe Hell,” in which climbers from around the world travel to compete. He also recently won the High Point Climbing and Fitness Rope League competition in the advanced category. Eager to share his knowledge and love for climbing with others, he offers individual and group climbing lessons for indoor and outdoor environments and private and corporate climbing guide services. “Experience level does not matter to me. As long as people are willing to learn, I am willing to help,” he says.

In addition to the camaraderie and physical benefits he has found through climbing, Chris has noticed a shift in his mentality and focus. “The focus I have brought to my climbing has completely revolutionized my life. When you are more fit and your mind is clearer, you can make better decisions and lead a happier, more fulfilled life,” he says. With this increased focus, Chris has felt even more driven in his career as a brand and marketing consultant at LSI Graphics and as owner of his own company, Dreamcapture Design. He has also stopped drinking alcohol as a way to be more connected with himself and his goals. In the future, Chris plans to continue organizing climbing trips with Broham Jam, looking to return to Europe and climb in Spain and, eventually, Australia.

Reach out to Chris on Instagram @chriscolesyea for private coaching, or at his website Dreamcapture.design.

By

Balancing Fitness & Fatherhood

Zoe Harrison

Photo by Tindall Stephens

Aaron Tubergen, 36, never expected to become a Memphian but found a home here through fatherhood and his cycling community.

Aaron, a musician from Holland, Michigan, grew up enjoying bike riding and even won some bike races as a teenager. However, by age 16, Aaron had recognized his passion for playing the viola and dedicated most of his free time to pursuing music. He eventually graduated from the Cleveland Institute of Music and moved around for work as a professional Concert Violist.

Aaron moved to Memphis for a relationship, married in 2017, and his daughter was born in 2018. Aaron and his family moved back to Cleveland for a couple of years before returning to Memphis in early 2020. During his time in Cleveland, he remembered feeling stressed with work and thought back to the joy he found riding his bike as a kid, which prompted him to begin riding again. In Memphis, Aaron found himself cycling regularly. “As a musician during COVID, all of my work performing pretty much evaporated, and riding my bike became a great outlet to spend my new free time,” he remembers.

During the next few months of COVID with career uncertainty, a separation, a divorce, and learning his new role as a single dad to a toddler, Aaron continued to appreciate time spent on his bike as a way to spend time alone, or with his new cycling community. “Riding bikes is the best because if I want to be alone with my

thoughts, I can ride for hours by myself. If I want to talk to a friend or be completely distracted, I can go on a group ride and find someone to turn to,” Aaron says.

What started as a hobby and distraction for Aaron has become a passion, and he has become fully immersed in the community of riding and racing here in Memphis. He is a Marx-Bensdorf and BPC Cycling Team member and frequently competes in, and sometimes wins, local and national bike races. Aaron is currently training for the Masters Nationals Road Race in Augusta, Georgia, this summer. Though his career as a musician is somewhat unconventional, his unique practice and performance schedule allow Aaron plenty of time to put hours in on his bike and spend as much time with his daughter as he can.

It is instantly clear when speaking with Aaron how much he loves racing bikes, but it is unmistakable how much he lights up when speaking about time spent with his daughter. “Nothing beats being a dad and spending time with my daughter. Hanging out, reading, playing together — every day being a dad is the best day ever,” he says.

Learn more about the Marx-Bensdorf / BPC Cycling racing team on Instagram @mb_bpc_cycling.

By Amanda Tompkins

Conquering Challenges Cultivates a Fulfilling Life

Kenneth Weiss is no stranger to hard work. A Memphis native, Kenneth serves his community as an orthopedic surgeon at OrthoSouth. In high school, Kenneth was active on the wrestling team and frequently played tennis growing up and in college. In addition, he has always been an avid runner. His interest in medicine began early when he worked for a cardiothoracic surgeon in school. As he looked ahead toward a career path, one thing seemed natural: sports medicine. Kenneth graduated from Memphis University School in 1987, after which he attended the University of Texas in Austin. He returned home, finished medical school at the University of Tennessee, and subsequently attended LSU for his residency.

Photo by Tindall Stephens

Kenneth completed a shoulder and knee surgery fellowship in Jackson, MS, at the Mississippi Sports Medicine and Orthopedics Center in 2001 and has been in practice in Memphis ever since.

As a surgeon and orthopedic physician, his professional responsibilities claim many hours of his week, but he still finds time to stay active. Most recently, he has taken on the grueling yet rewarding culture of triathlons.

“My goal was to complete a half-Iron Man competition by age 50.” To dedicate himself to his training for triathlons, Dr. Weiss commits an hour in the morning for training, two days per week each to swimming, running, and biking, doubling up on the weekends. Although he missed his deadline due to COVID-19, he eventually succeeded in completing the St. Jude Half Iron Man in 2021.

“Cycling is what scared me the most. As a surgeon, I would have patients come in with injuries related to cycling fairly often.” He didn’t let that deter him from continuing to train. He’s since participated in multiple local triathlon events, including the Memphis in May Triathlon, the Annie Oakley Buffalo Bill Triathlon at Shelby Farms, and the Dragon Fly Triathlon. He plans to complete his next triathlon in the Summer of 2025.

“They didn’t teach us in school how to deal with the patient outcomes that are not successful. It’s something I had to learn how to do.” Training in medicine and training for triathlons is similar. “We are so good sometimes as doctors at forgiving and helping others. However, we don’t often forgive ourselves in the same way.” According to Dr. Weiss, “Any kind of training requires perseverance,” and perseverance requires grace with oneself.

The best way to deal with unwanted outcomes is to learn to accept them and move forward. “The best thing I can do for my patients is to care for myself, and I do that through working out and meditation.”

As a husband and father of three, “I tell my kids all the time that life is hard. Even as a doctor, I’m not smarter or better than anybody; I just went to school a bit longer.” Kenneth has lived a life of healthy, serial challenges and has enjoyed conquering his goals. There is no hidden secret. In fact, there’s truth in the cliches. His philosophy is simple, “Treat others the way you want to be treated, and be nice.” Setbacks, unfavorable outcomes, and challenges can be overcome. As Dr. Weiss says, “It may just take a little hard work to do it.”

To find local triathlons, visit Trifind.com/tn.

By Cara Greenstein

Green Tomato Gazpacho

This gazpacho recipe is a warm-weather elixir in every way. Whether enjoyed by the pool or on the patio, it’s arguably as refreshing as a cocktail. Green, healthy (vegan and GF!), and flavor-packed, I’m proud of this latest kitchen experiment and hope you’ll bring it into your home, too.

Ingredients:

q 3 pounds green tomatoes (as ripe as possible!), chopped

q 1 hothouse cucumber, peeled and chopped

q 1/2 jalapeño, deseeded and chopped (you can use the whole thing if you like a kick)

q 1 shallot, chopped

q 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

q 2 cloves garlic, smashed

q 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

q Juice of 1 lime or lemon

q 1/2 cup olive oil

q 1/4 cup white wine vinegar

q Fresh herbs, to garnish

q Diced melon, to garnish

Directions:

In a large bowl, add tomatoes, cucumber, shallot, jalapeño, cilantro, garlic, and salt. Toss and allow to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours.

Add olive oil, citrus juice, and vinegar to the bowl. Add ingredients to a food processor in batches, blending until desired consistency is reached.

Serve chilled with a garnish of herbs, melon, and sea salt.

Serves 6-8

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These Shrimp, Broccoli and Potato Skewers with Lemon and Thyme can let you put a little spring in your weeknight dinners. Grilled skewers keep the whole family happy and come together in less than 30 minutes, making them perfect for quick and healthy meals without the hassle.

Shrimp, Broccoli & Potato Skewers with Lemon and Thyme

Ingredients:

q 1 pound bagged Little Potatoes

q 1 bunch broccoli

q 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

q 1 1/2 lemons, juice only

q 3 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

q 2 tablespoons olive oil

q salt, to taste

q pepper, to taste

Directions:

In large, microwave-safe bowl, microwave potatoes on high 5 minutes.

Chop broccoli into large pieces.

Add broccoli and shrimp to bowl once potatoes are steamed.

Add lemon juice, thyme and olive oil; evenly coat potatoes, shrimp and broccoli. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Build skewers and grill 10-15 minutes on mediumhigh heat, until shrimp is cooked through.

By Martha Lee Anne Laret, MS, RDN, LDN

The Wellness Dilemma

“Diet” has become a four-letter word in the minds of many consumers as they shun commercial weight loss programs.

“‘Healthy eating’ has replaced ‘dieting,’” Marketdata LLC warned in their 2017 market analysis report.

The Wellness Industry Boom

As predicted, weight loss chains like Weight Watchers and Jenny Craig saw a 25% decrease in revenue between 2021 and 2023. Some 26,000 weight loss coaches lost work in 2020, and meal replacements/appetite suppressant sales dropped 14% in 2023, and are predicted to drop another 4.7% this year.

With consumers far too aware of dieting failure rates, their link with disordered eating, and their pesky habit of contributing to weight gain down the line, dieting is O-U-T. But with a little wardrobe change, diets have hit the streets again under the guise of “clean eating,” “detoxes,” and, of course, “optimal health.”

While the weight loss industry is predicted to hit $93.4 billion this year, with major income contributions being weight loss medications Ozempic and Wegovy, the Global Wellness Institute reported that the wellness industry is predicted to reach $7 trillion by 2025.

What is Wellness Culture?

In the field of weight-inclusive healthcare, “wellness” is synonymous with concepts like self-care, mental health, boundaries, balance, mindfulness, compassion, healthcare accessibility, and Intuitive Eating; however, this is not what you might find within “Wellness Culture” or the “Wellness Diet” as Christy Harrison, author of The Wellness Trap, calls it:

“Wellness culture is a set of values that equates wellness with moral goodness and posits certain behaviors — and a certain type of body — as the path to achieving that supposed rectitude.”

Unlike the diets of our mothers, the Wellness Diet doesn’t overtly demand that you “restrict” your caloric intake, “have a handful of almonds,” or go “fat-free,” which makes it harder to spot. Where the diet industry capitalized on weight loss equals better health, the wellness industry has capitalized on optimal health equals’ optimal weight, and then goes a step further to suggest that everyone can have health at any time if they would but apply themselves to their health minute by minute of every day. The Wellness Diet:

• Shifts focus from “weight” to “wellness,” yet emphasizes weight loss as evidence that the pinnacle of “optimal health” is being reached

• Eliminates foods or restricts food groups without a medical reason

• Inserts a sense of morality around foods eaten — emphasizes “whole” or “clean” foods, which can look like orthorexia

• Replaces conventional medicine with “natural healing” practices like using adaptogens, herbs, tonics, teas, cold plunging, sauna, red light therapy, earthing, etc.

• A lways pushes health “betterment” or “optimization”

• Places responsibility upon the individual for their health

Martha Lee Anne Laret, MS, RDN, LDN is a Nutrition Therapist at Memphis Nutrition Group, a nutrition and lifestyle counseling practice offering in-person and virtual nutrition therapy specializing in a non-diet, weight-neutral approach. Contact Memphis Nutrition Group at 901.343.6146 or visit MemphisNutritionGroup.com for more information.

What Wellness Culture Shows Us About the Health of Healthcare

If we look through the smoke and mirrors of wellness culture to the heart of the consumer, we’ll find that most individuals are earnestly searching for answers to (and relief from) major healthcare concerns that have fallen between the cracks in a tug-of-war between the pro-diet and anti-diet healthcare systems.

In truth, traditional medicine rooted in weight-centric practices (at best) offers medication for symptom management or (at worst) recommends weight loss without consideration of medical history, the cause of sudden weight changes, or whether a recommendation for weight loss is sustainable or effective.

Weight bias and lack of weight/health education leads many providers to assume that weight is merely a reflection of personal choice, movement, or diet; yet many times, unusual and sudden weight shifts can be early warning of health concerns like Type II Diabetes, PCOS, thyroid disorders, cancer, depression, and eating disorders, etc.

On the other side of this healthcare tug-of-war are weightneutral paradigms like the HAES movement and non-diet approach, which may hesitate to dig into weight changes or health concerns with functional and integrative practices as they are often associated with weight loss and diet culture.

Whether out of bias, uncertainty, or fear of bringing d-i-e-t into the room, the tug of war between diet and non-diet practitioners can create large gaps in healthcare assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, leaving individuals on their own to address upstream causes vs. downstream symptom management.

Finding the Gray

There is that place where the pendulum stops swinging from extreme to extreme, where non-diet providers and HAES advocates approach wellness in the gray. This is a place where we remember that some supplements, healthcare practices, and recommendations are not accessible to all people, that one wellness practice for one might be contraindicated for another, and that genetics and other factors outside of eating and exercise really do account for much of our health and weight.

Health is wonderful, but we aren’t guaranteed it, nor do we owe it to anyone. We can improve our health in “small practices” that we enjoy like enjoying regular meals in the

day, slowing down on an afternoon walk, spending time with our loved ones, or even swapping out the phone with a book at bedtime.

Health considers the whole person’s wellbeing (mind, body, history, emotions, experience, culture, etc.) and does not get bogged down in a tug-of-war between weight-focus or behavior focus, but is empowered to explore both — with neutrality, compassion, and understanding of the many factors that contribute to both. When we consider the whole person, follow the downward stream of symptoms to upward concerns, stay attuned to our own personal or healthcare biases, and consider all of the accessible avenues to health — we have finally entered into the wellness conversation.

Remember: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. If it feels like the only way to health or the only answer, it’s likely a wolf in sheep’s wool. If it asks you to forget your own intuition, preferences, history, and experience within your body, it might not really have you in mind at all. And, if you need support navigating it all, the Registered Dietitians at Memphis Nutrition Group are here to guide you.

Sara Boscarino, Runner

24; Communications Specialist at Sylvamo; Volunteer for MIFA Meals on Wheels and Clean Memphis

I f RUNNING: Running makes me feel physically and mentally tough. Long-distance running gets you used to being uncomfortable, translating into every facet of life!

BUCKET LIST: New York City marathon — it would be amazing!

UP NEXT: I’m training for the St. Jude Marathon, but leading up to that, I will be running in various races in the M-town series. I am super excited to zoom through the zoo!

FAVORITE FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: Finishing a half-marathon in under two hours. Any time I finish a run, it gives me a high! Just knowing your body/mind did that and survived is amazing. I love to continue to surprise myself with what my body can handle!

HOMETOWN: Memphis

SPEED BUMPS: I grew up playing soccer, but when that ended, reality hit fast! I fell into a slump without a coach dictating my every workout. I realized I was the only one who could prioritize my health, and I have not stopped exercising since!

FAVORITE JAMS: I thought about this and tried to think of a cool answer, but my answer must be Taylor Swift.

RECENT RACES: St. Jude Half Marathon 2023 was my first half marathon, and I came in at 2:04, which I was proud of! More recently, I completed the Cambell Clinic Collection that contained six races (5K, 10K, 15K, Half) that led up to the Germantown Half Marathon. I finished the Germantown Half Marathon in just under two hours, which was a huge accomplishment for me! I placed third in the women’s 20-24 age group and received a medal.

MOST MEMORABLE FITNESS EVENT: St. Jude Marathon weekend!

BEST EATS: Anything and everything from Ecco in Overton Park — the sausage orecchiette with a glass of Pinot noir!

GO-TO GEAR: My electronic massage gun! It helps decrease any muscle pain and tension.

DREAM DINNER COMPANY: Taylor Swift. The tea would be amazing, and I need to hear all about the ins and outs of her time spent in the spotlight.

INSPIRATION TO BE FIT: I want to live a long, happy life and experience all the joy life offers! But I also love how it feels to finish a workout. Running is a great way to work out both my body and mind.

ON MY NIGHTSTAND: “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah! I love historical fiction.

QUOTE: Half the battle is just showing up. Find a way to get yourself to the gym! As soon as you start moving, you will feel better.

Photo by Brooke Simpson

Ben Deeter, Runner

25; Edward R Murrow Award-Winning Journalist & Morning Show Radio Host, KWAM News Radio

I f RUNNING: Running is my medicine. As a news guy, I’m consumed with a daily news cycle that is mostly negative. I’ve found the heavier the news of the day is, the longer distances I run. Everyone needs an escape; mine is pounding the pavement.

BUCKET LIST: One day I am going to run the Athens Marathon, the original 26.2 course that started over 2,500 years ago.

UP NEXT: I’m training for Boston Qualify (BQ), which means I’ve got to run a sub-three-hour marathon. I love this city, so I’d love to go to BQ on a familiar course.

FAVE FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: It was mile 14 when I felt a searing pain surge through my calves. I only had 12.2 miles left to go. Anyone who’s participated in St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend knows the course winds through the hospital’s campus. You see the sweet faces of the toughest kids in the country, little patients fighting childhood cancers and pediatric diseases. I instantly forgot about my aching legs. My journey was easy, unlike theirs.

HOMETOWN: Memphis

FAVORITE JAMS: Any track from Post Malone’s “Beerbongs & Bentleys” album.

RECENT RACES: American River Run, Half Marathon, third overall; St. Jude Marathon; Big River Crossing Half Marathon; Annual Chick-fil-A 5K Labor Day, third overall; Youth Villages 5K, first overall; Buffalo Run 5K at Shelby Farms, first overall; Humane Society Fast & Furriest 5K

MOST MEMORABLE FITNESS EVENT: What was supposed to be an easy 10-mile race turned into an episode of ‘Survivor’ through Shelby Farms. I was leading the pack of runners, which was great until I got lost. Every runner knows this feeling; it’s gutwrenching. A sprint turns into a stumble, frantically looking for a mile marker.

I wasn’t the only wanderer, though. I bumped into a group of lost runners in the dense forest. One female runner was crying, and another was on the phone with MPD. It would be 45 minutes before we reconnected with civilization. I started the race alone and finished it with new friends. Though I came in last place, I kind of think I won.

BEST EATS: Sixty South Salmon from Coastal Fish Company with a glass of Charcoal Lemonade from Raw Girls.

DREAM DINNER COMPANY: God. I’d ask him why he made burgers and fries taste so good and vegetables taste like vegetables.

GO-TO GEAR: Brooks Ghost running shoes, a Nike Run Club Apple Watch, and a pair of black shorts.

INSPIRATION TO BE FIT: Landing date #2. Too shallow? You don’t have to be a medical researcher to know that an active lifestyle improves quality of life. From improving heart health to strengthening your whole musculoskeletal system and even boosting your mood, that is my motivation to lace up and run daily.

PET PEEVE: Runners who talk your ear off during runs and EarPod batteries that drain too fast.

Photo by Brooke Simpson

MADDY CABLE

24, Trainer at Rumble Boxing

MY FITNESS HOME:

My favorite is throwing mitts with my boxing coach.

BIGGEST FITNESS MYTH:

That lifting heavy makes you bulky! It does quite the opposite.

BIGGEST NUTRITION MYTH:

That salt is bad for you. I drink salt water at least once daily and have plenty in my diet.

MY TYPICAL WORKOUT DAY:

I consider any movement I get to be a workout. I usually take my two dogs for a walk and either take a rumble class in the evening or work out at my home gym!

MY ADVICE:

Don’t ever compare your fitness journey to ANYONE else.

MY FITNESS TIP:

Fuel your body BEFORE and AFTER your workout. It’s hard for me to get through a workout if I haven’t eaten. And, of course, replenish with a protein-filled meal afterward!

IF

I COULD ONLY HAVE ONE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT:

Kettlebell for sure. It’s the most versatile piece!

ALWAYS IN MY GYM BAG:

My Redmond Re-Lyte electrolytes!

MY FITNESS IDOL:

Danielle Brandon

DREAM WORKOUT PARTNER:

Mike Tyson

MY GO-TO SNACK:

White rice with butter and salt

MY DIET:

My diet consists mostly of meat, fruits, and rice/potatoes. Nothing too crazy but I do try to stay away from processed foods. I also don’t use canola or seed oils, and I use butter for everything!

ONE FOOD I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT:

Steak

SETBACKS:

The biggest setback has been finding the time to work out. But once I put aside the mindset of “I have to get an hour and a half lift in,” my workouts look like a 30-minute lift, 20-minute walk, or even 15 minutes of boxing. Just get it done!

WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED:

The feeling of accomplishment after a workout. Whether it was the hardest or easiest workout, I still moved my body and pushed myself, and that’s the most important to me.

Are you a fitness trainer, workout instructor, or influencer in the industry and would love to share your knowledge with our readers? Send a brief bio and picture to: Amy@memphishealthandfitness.com.