Hi, I’m NiMi

Let Me Tell You Where This All Started…

The Early Spark: Where It All Began

My passion for health and fitness sparked when I was just 14. I signed up for weights and conditioning classes, and that’s when I truly fell in love with the world of fitness. Growing up in the 80s, the message was clear: to get a good job, you had to go to college. So off I went, earning a marketing degree and diving into the corporate world. For 15 years, I worked in marketing, but every time I hit the gym, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was meant for something different—something I was truly passionate about.

The Turning Point: From Corporate Life to Fitness

In 2020, when the world came to a standstill, I saw an opportunity to finally pursue what I loved. I started taking classes to become a certified personal trainer, and then went on in 2022, to earn my nutrition coaching certification. That decision changed everything. Now, I live my dream every day, waking up at 4:15 AM five days a week to coach fitness classes and help others transform their lives.

Living the Dream: My Work Today

Today, I’m proud to be part of the Exalt Fitness team, where I coach group fitness classes, offer private training, and provide nutrition coaching. Working with amazing people every day has shown me that following my passion was the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m truly living my dream.

The Struggle: My Personal Health Journey

My journey hasn’t been without its challenges. I’ve struggled with my weight all my life. I can remember comparing my thighs to my best friend’s at just 8 years old. As far back as my memories go, I never liked my body. I never felt comfortable in my own skin. These struggles led me down a dangerous path as a teenager. In my formative years, I was bullied about my weight and was given the name “Bessie the Whale” by family and friends. Imagine being a 14-year-old girl, called Bessie by kids and adults alike—talk about some mental damage. Out of these experiences grew low self-confidence, self-worth, and a bit of self-loathing.

By 2018, I hit my heaviest at 192 pounds and was in a dark place, both mentally and physically. I was miserable—drinking heavily, overweight, and feeling like I was drowning. Then, I made a decision that changed everything: I quit drinking. Sobriety was the first step in cleaning up my habits and mindset. It wasn’t just about quitting alcohol; it was about rebuilding my confidence and taking control of my health.

Transformation: How I Turned My Life Around

Over the course of two years, I lost 60 pounds, focusing on small, sustainable changes. It wasn’t quick or easy, but by prioritizing my habits, mindset, and mental health, I’ve kept the weight off for four years. My journey is proof that slow and steady wins the race when it comes to lasting change.

Education and Background

Before all this, I was a college cheerleader at Central Michigan University (CMU), where I learned the importance of teamwork and perseverance. I also earned a Master’s degree in Internet Marketing from Full Sail University, which has helped me share my passion with a wider audience.

Final Thought: A Message of Hope

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that it’s never too late to change your life. Whether you’re struggling with weight, mental health, or just feeling stuck, know that you have the power to turn things around. It starts with one decision, one step, and a whole lot of determination. I’m here to help you take that first step and every one after that.