About

One time I had to write my own bio in the third person...it was sooo awkward.

Hi, I'm Jessica.

My love for health and fitness began at a young age with a health-nut father and a dream to play every sport in the book. From softball and basketball to gymnastics and horseback riding, I always had that competitive edge. When I stopped growing at a mere five feet tall, my dream of being a basketball player was crushed and I put my gymnastics training to good use: cheerleading.

I cheered competitively throughout high school--traveling and, well, winning. I continued cheerleading at the collegiate level on the nationally-ranked team at California State University, Long Beach. I currently cheer professionally for a NBA team, in addition to my career.
 

I graduated in Fall 2010 with a degree in Journalism from California State University, Long Beach. Immediately after graduation, I combined my brains and passion and started my career in marketing for a fitness company, where I currently work. Don't worry, I haven't and won't write about my company or its product in my blog.

Me and my best friend, Jen.

In May 2011, I had an eye-opening injury when I completely tore my Achilles tendon while tumbling. This not only humbled me as an athlete, but it also taught me the importance of the neglected areas of fitness and athletic training: the warm-up and cool-down. Unable to train for explosive power while rehabilitating my injury, I found a new appreciation for low-impact fitness, including suspension training, Yoga, Pilates and other functional movements.

My down-time also allowed me to complete the PTA Global Personal Training Certification Course. No, I don't train clients--I did it purely to expand my knowledge. Through my career and enthusiasm, I stay abreast of the latest fitness trends, training modalities, research and educational tools.

I get some form of exercise daily (most of the time twice-a-day). During the week, I hit up the gym for circuit-style workouts, indoor cardio and an occasional class. I love trying new fitness studios, which you'll see me write about. However, my favorite way to sweat is outside--running, hiking, biking, watersports...you name it, I'll try it.

I cook every single one of my meals and rarely eat out. I like to experiment to make healthy foods taste good. Mind you, I have an extremely small kitchen, so all recipes and preparation is very simple. I'm not good at measuring or structure, so bare with the "handful of" and "throw in some" instructions.

Oh, I also have fun. Like, as contradicting as it is, I suck back tequila and wake up too hungover to move (which is when I force myself into a hangover-friendly Yoga class). So, you'll read about many-a-hangovers and how I Sweat It Out.

I truly love working (and blogging) in the health and fitness industry because it helps people to be their best--to look their best, to feel their best and/or to play their best. If you're physically in peak shape, you will perform better in all other aspects of your life.

Welcome to my life.