About Annie, Your Personal trainer
I have a strong passion for fitness and helping others become better versions of themselves, but I haven’t been athletic or into fitness my whole life. I gained the typical “Freshman 15” in college, and began running to help me with weight loss. I joined a running club that motivated me to pursue running 5K’s and eventually half marathons. I always tried to improve my race time by training harder for the next race, but this only involved running more and I never really improved that much. Then, I discovered the empowering sport of women’s flat track roller derby. Roller derby is an extremely athletic endeavor, requiring speed, agility, strength, skill, and strategy. I immediately noticed that if I lifted weights outside of practice, it helped me play better as a roller derby athlete. I truly enjoyed going to the gym, lifting weights and getting stronger. I realized that I should have applied the same training techniques to my running – where lifting weights and not more running will help you become faster! I decided to take it a step further and become a certified personal trainer and start my own business, Dare 2B Strong, to help other women discover the benefits of strength training.
Many people ask me where the name “Dare 2B Strong” comes from. My mom used to tell me the phrase “dare to be different” when I was younger and it really has defined how I live my life. I love this saying, and it is something I will always remember about my mom. She passed away from cancer on June 23, 2018. Dare 2B Strong is dedicated to her.
My mom was also a roller skater. She placed 4th with her partner at the 1978 National Championships in Portugal.
“Dare 2B Strong” means to not be afraid to lift heavier weights, which ultimately will help you with weight loss and finally achieving that body of your dreams. Many women have reservations when it comes to strength training, and think that if they lift heavier weights they will get “bulky” and not achieve the desired “lean” aesthetic. This is a common myth, where most women simply do not have the genetics to grow huge muscles. Resistance training, coupled with progressive overload and moderate cardio (and proper nutrition of course!) is a recipe that works for most women to get the lean, sculpted look. Embrace the idea that you can be strong AND look good, which leads to overall better health. My online personal training services provide fitness plans and nutrition advice to help you get stronger AND lose weight.
