The CommUNITY Issue

Harvest Hustle Workout Train with Local Strongman and arena football athlete

In The Kitchen with Carissa Transform Traditional Dishes into Healthy Alternatives

The CommUNITY Issue

CONTENTS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

NASHVILLE FIT MAGAZINE

NASHGIRL SK8 All-girl skate crew breaks barriers and builds community

EATING DISORDER 16 FROM TO FOOD FREEDOM

9

Whole body health coach, Gracie Record shares her story of triumph

HEALTHY FOR THE HOLIDAYS Omari provides tips on maintaining health goals throughout the holidays

SICKNESS

Immune-building insights for the cold and flu season

27 ROCK CLIMBING AND HIP MOBILITY

12

Jonathen breaks down the connection between hip mobility and proper rock climbing form

HARVEST HUSTLE

19

25 I’M (NOT) DOWN WITH THE

33 IN THE KITCHEN WITH

Blake Harris takes us through a fun workout for the fall! Grab a sandbag and let’s play!

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CARISSA

Enjoy Carissa’s twist on a holiday classic

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LETTER

FROM

THE

EDITOR

Nashville, As you’re reading this, I hope you’re taking in the crisp autumn air, enjoying the vibrant fall foliage, and finding glimmers of gratitude in everyday moments.

This print issue represents you, our CommUNITY. The cover mosaic of the Music City skyline showcases an inclusive group of individuals from all corners of the industry, all levels of fitness, all embraced for being different but equal. Each and every one of you contributes to our ecosystem; enriched by strong bonds, shared passion and collective motivation.

Inside these pages, we’re excited to share alternative fitness groups like Nashgirl Sk8, a locally based all-girls skate crew that invites girls to skate, lends boards to newcomers and creates a safe and fun environment for learning.

Fitness comes in all forms and these women are a shining example of that.

Since we last hit shelves, we’ve announced the return of the 2024 Nashville Fit Games, hosted the Fit Pro Success Summit for regional industry business owners, and we’ve continued to amplify your stories. You make up the content of our magazine and our inbox is always open!

As the season of giving picks up, it’s important to check in on our own wellbeing. Our team acknowledges the significance of all eight dimensions of wellness: Physical, emotional, intellectual, social, environmental, financial, occupational, and spiritual. We pride ourselves on equipping you with the knowledge, inspiration, and guidance to level up in all aspects of your life.

Whether you’re turkey trotting around town or cozied up with candles at home, we hope this time of year brings you a sense of warmth and belonging to a community like no other.

With love,

Nicole Swickle Editor-In-Chief

Connect with Nicole: @nswickle | @honestinteractions

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The Team

Stronger Together Terry Barga Publisher/ Sales/ Owner

Adrienne Neale Contributing Writer

Gerell Webb Contributing Writer/ Podcast Host/ NFM Correspondent

Jack Barga Photographer/ Videographer

Devin Tolentino Photographer/ Graphic Design

Jonathen Shane Contributing Writer

Roy Mangrum Operations Manager/ Owner

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Proprietary Mineral Blend OPTIMIZED FOR PERFORMANCE DEFIANCE BY NATURE ULTRA-PURIFIED CHLORINE-FREE and FLUORIDE FREE ENGINEERED TO PERFECTION Designed for elite athletes, the everyday fitness lover, the soccer mom and even our smallest athletes!

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Nashville, We are always looking for gym partners and coaches to help us facilitate our Fit For Life classes. We would love to meet you and talk about the possibilities. Please scan the QR code and let’s connect.

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Photo by:Gage Lance (@capturedbyglance)

Shredding Stereotypes Nashgirl Sk8 is Breaking Barriers and Building Community By: Nicole Swickle

Skateboarding has always been bigger than tricks and wheels on concrete. It's a culture, a lifestyle, and a community that knows no boundaries.

Nashgirl Sk8 is proof that Music City is making a name for itself beyond the buzz of Broadway. In a place best known for rich musical history, a different kind of sound is echoing through the streets -- the grind of skateboard wheels on pavement, the camaraderie of fearless girls, and the satisfaction of dropping in for the first time.

The Nashgirl Sk8 collective was born in the height of the pandemic. Co-Founder, Dallas Pritchard wanted to learn to skateboard. The monotony of lockdown was all the encouragement she needed to call her longtime friend, skater and co-founder Elle Rovenstine to venture out to Crockett Park in Brentwood. The moment their wheels turned against the unforgiving pavement, they knew their passion needed to be shared with more people who looked like them – girls.

From that day on, they showed up. Not only for themselves, but they invited a new girl every week. They’d lend out boards to first timers, teach them to skate and the crew grew. “People are intimidated by skateboarding. There’s this mentality of… I’m just a girl. What am I supposed to do,” said Pritchard. “It’s cool to be able to help empower girls. Literally anyone can get on a skateboard and ride.”

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While over 80% of core skateboarders are male, Nashgirl Sk8 is reshaping the perception of the sport simply by extending a warm invite to Nashvillians.

Their commitment to nurturing talent from the ground up is unmatched.

“We have a lot of college-age girls, but there are also a lot of people out of school,” said Pritchard. “We’ve also had high school girls and even moms have driven out with little girls. It’s a variety.

We’re surrounded by such a great group of people. Everybody’s like – yeah girl, you got it!”

With the help of local shops and national partners, the two co-founders have transformed an aspirational sport into an inspirational safe haven for skate.

Intimidated newcomer? They’ll skate 1:1 with you.

Don’t have gear? They’ve partnered with local skate shops to get you on a board and supply the padding to keep you safe.

Don’t have friends who ride? You do now.

Nashgirl Sk8 organizes group rides, sessions and events that effortlessly create a sisterhood of skaters. The crew stands for more than skateboarding, it’s about changing the narrative.

Photo by: Carly Mackler (carlymacklerphoto)

Send the girls a message for a private session, drop in on a monthly event, or give them a social shoutout! @nashgirlsk8 | www.nashgirlsk8.com

Photo by : Kennedy Davis (@kennedydavisphotography)

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Official Podcast Production company of the Nashville Fit Magazine

-

Healthy Holidays By: Omari Bernard

Photos by : Mark Stiller

As the holiday season approaches, so does the promise of festive gatherings, mouthwatering feasts, and an abundance of sweet treats. It's a time for celebration, togetherness, and indulgence. However, for many, this joyful season can also usher in a not-so-welcome guest: weight gain.

It's no secret that weight gain during the holiday season is a common concern for many. The temptation to overindulge in rich, calorie-laden foods is everywhere, from Thanksgiving dinners to holiday office parties. We're often faced with an endless array of delectable dishes, and it's easy to give in to the spirit of indulgence.

While gaining a few extra pounds during the holidays may seem harmless, it can be a slippery slope.

Studies have shown that people tend to gain weight during this period, and unfortunately, they don't always shed those extra pounds in the new year. This cycle of weight gain can contribute to long-term health problems, including obesity, cardiovascular issues, and diabetes.

The good news is that it's entirely possible to enjoy the holiday season without packing on the pounds. Here are a few strategies to help you maintain a balance between celebration and health: Mindful eating Life is meant to be enjoyed, so enjoy it!

Indulge if you choose to. Or, make a game plan for yourself: Whether you opt to use a smaller plate, serve yourself a teaspoon of each side dish, or decide to eat a meal before you show up to the party, you’ll be prepared to make more rational decisions.

Move the Body Decide and commit to moving more.

Movement can look like making a conscious effort to hit 10,000 steps a day, exercising 300 minutes a week (based on the American College of Sports Medicine guidelines), or pick up an active hobby such as dancing, gardening, yoga or rock climbing. This will ensure that you are expelling more calories than you are accustomed to. This will help the body absorb, digest, and eliminate some of those extra delightful cuisines you indulge in.

Choose gratitude It’s no secret that stress kills. Research shows that when you are in a state of gratitude, there is no space in the brain and body for negative emotions to share. Writing down daily what you are grateful for, giving your time, energy, and resources to someone or something, or showing simple acts of kindness throughout your day can increase levels of those feel-good hormones, which in turn will improve digestion throughout the gastrointestinal tract.

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These three tips may appear simple but may not be easy. If you feel you need support, do not hesitate to reach out. Finding a friend, creating an accountability group, or hiring a fitness professional may be some avenues to explore.

Cheers to a happy and healthy holiday season!

Follow Omari Bernard and his business @itsmeomari @revivere_treat

Photo by: Jack Barga

Nashville's Leading Sports Chiropractor EXPERIENCED INVESTIGATIVE COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE OUR TEAM AT RUSH CHIROPRACTIC CENTER STRIVES TO MAKE YOU FEEL WELCOME. OUR OFFICE OFFERS A WARM, FRIENDLY, AND EXCITING EXPERIENCE. FROM ADVANCED TECHNIQUES NOT TYPICALLY SEEN IN MOST CHIROPRACTIC OFFICES TO AN OPEN EXERCISE AND REHAB AREA, WE PROVIDE YOU WITH ALL THE TOOLS YOU NEED FOR SUCCESS. WE HAVE A FEELING THAT YOU’LL LOVE OUR VIBE! WE ARE NOT YOUR GRANDPA’S CHIROPRACTOR!

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From Eating Disorder to Food Freedom

Photo by: Erika MacWilliams

Gracie Record's Journey to Whole Body Health and Happiness By: Terry Barga

In the fitness world where social media showcases only the polished results, it's refreshing to hear stories that shed light on the real struggles and triumphs.

Gracie's journey began in 2008 when she fell into restrictive eating patterns, excessive exercise, and periods of bingeing and purging. She remained in this cycle until 2013, when her boyfriend (now husband) and eight-year-old daughter moved into her house. With a new young woman in her life, Gracie quickly realized she needed to change everything, as she felt obligated to protect this little girl from having the same mindset. Little did Gracie know this ONE decision to change herself fully would be the catalyst for her transformation.

She started tracking food daily, aiming to eat 1,000 calories daily, more than she previously averaged weekly. A couple of weeks into eating more, Gracie noticed she was not gaining weight as she had feared.

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DAY BY DAY, REP BY REP — YOU EARN EVERY WIN. AND WE’RE HERE TO FUEL YOU TO EARN EVEN MORE.

This gave her the courage to start slowly increasing food, and within six months, her calories were up to 1,500 a day, while her weight dropped from 158 to 150 pounds. This was monumental for Gracie, as she realized 'more food did not mean more weight,' and she had the data to prove it.

She was fascinated by the data and what was happening with her body, inside and out. Gracie started researching calories, learning about macronutrients and the roles that carbs, fats and proteins play in the body.

Gracie joined Instagram in 2014 and came across a woman, also recovering from an eating disorder, who preached, "Eat donuts and lose weight," which caught Gracie's attention. This newfound inspiration led Gracie to start implementing the concept of Flexible Dieting.

Within six months, her calories were up to 1,800 a day, her weight continued to drop slowly, and she could enjoy date night with her boyfriend and eat donuts with her stepdaughter, all while she continued to see the scale drop and her body transform.

In the summer of 2014, Gracie earned her personal training license and started training clients at their country club gym. In January 2015, Gracie wanted more results, and she knew that to get more results, she needed more knowledge. At the time, Gracie had just opened a restaurant in her hometown. She was working over 100 hours a week, training in person, and still keeping up with her health the best she could.

Photo by: Erika MacWilliams

PAGE20

Available time to research and implement new knowledge was limited, if not entirely out of the question, but her goal was still a high priority. This pushed her to hire her first coach, that IG influencer she looked up to throughout the beginning of her journey. Gracie joined her 12-week online coaching program in January 2015, and within 12 weeks, she reached 138 pounds.

By August 2015, Gracie was a completely different woman, mentally, physically & emotionally.

By 2016, Gracie knew, without a doubt, that her purpose was to educate and guide as many women as possible to a healthier mind and body, a concept she would eventually refer to as Whole Body Health.

In 2020, she discovered Dylan Bair (who would later become her coach), talking about flexible dieting, strength training, and bikini competitions. It was never in the plan for her to pursue competitive bodybuilding, but after being exposed to the National Physique Committee on Instagram, she knew this would be her next endeavor.

Since that ONE decision, to this day, every single detail has been laid out perfectly. Gracie's purpose is to show women that they can achieve the body of their dreams without extreme restrictions and excessive workouts. Her philosophy and the core of her coaching business revolve around knowledge, balance, and self-awareness. As a coach, she aims to teach women the truth about nutrition, exercise and how the body works.

Gracie's journey from darkness to empowerment is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to rewrite your story and embrace a life of balance, health, and happiness.

You can follow Gracie's journey and reach out to her for help on your journey by scanning the QR code below.

Give yourself the chance to feel what Whole Body Health feels like because you deserve it.

NASHVILLE FIT MAGAZINE

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Whole Body Health Coach Nutrition Exercise Mindset Lifestyle

Harvest Hustle Workout

By Blake Harris

Continued on page 23

All photos by Jack Barga

Harvest Hustle Workout

continued

I'm a Nashville native with a strong background in sports and fitness. After excelling as a three-sport athlete in high school, I played college football at Tennessee State University and later pursued a career in professional football.

My competitive spirit led me to Strongman competitions, where I now serve as the Tennessee State Chair for Strongman Corporation and organize multiple annual competitions. Over the past decade, I've worked in various roles within the health and wellness/fitness industry in Nashville, gaining experience in personal training, group fitness, sports coaching, and nutrition.

My dream has always been to own a gym, which has become a reality with Music City Muscle, Nashville's premier strength and conditioning gym. With my professional football and Strongman background, we offer functional strength and conditioning for all levels, from beginners to elite athletes. Our motto is "United By Strength," we welcome individuals from all walks of life to join us in their fitness journey.

Harvest Hustle:

This workout begins with a sandbag. These sandbag movements can be performed individually or back to back as a complete circuit, as each movement leads into the next.

Sandbag Clean and Press 3x10

Deadlift the bag to your lap to regrip. Shoot your hips through, clean it up to a front rack position, then press overhead. Reclean each rep.

Sandbag to Shoulder 3x5 reps on each side

In a similar starting position, get the bag to your lap, regrip, then shoot your hips and pull it up until it rests on your shoulder.

Sandbag Squats 3x10

Similar starting position, get the bag to your lap, then regrip so that the bag will be high up on your chest when standing. Keep your torso upright, like a front squat, but you're bear-hugging the sandbag.

Sandbag Carry 3x100 ft

If you're going through this as a circuit, after standing up on your last rep of the squat, then you can go right into the carry without dropping the bag. If you're performing these exercises individually, you will begin the same way as you began the squat; once you have the bag up, begin to walk. Keep your core braced for short, wide steps while keeping your feet underneath your hips.

DB Press Mechanical Drop Set

This set has two positions. Start on an adjustable bench preset to a low incline, but your first movement is a seated military press. You will also be sitting straight up on the court without back support to work core stability. I try to go until I reserve 1-2 comfortable reps. Then lean back to the low incline and press until failure, shooting for 10-12 reps at each angle. Three rounds each.

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DB Lateral Raise Mechanical Drop set This set has three positions. Sit on the very edge of the bench, with a flat back, and lean forward with your chest towards your knees; this is more of a rear delt fly, with slightly bent arms pushing your pinkies towards the sky without momentum and without extending the arms.

The goal is 10-12 reps. Then, sit straight up, still seated on the bench, and perform lateral raises. Arms are still slightly bent, but we are not extending the arms as we raise, still not using any momentum and shooting for 10-12 reps again.

Lastly, stand up to perform standing lateral raises. For the first two positions, we shoot for 10-12 reps each, then finish standing reps until failure. While standing, we can overload just a little by popping our hips for enough momentum to keep going. (*** advanced tip: Begin with the DBs offset in your hand, holding the DB handle as close to the front of the DB as possible as you pull the DBs up. For added muscle recruitment, I like to aim for getting my elbows above my shoulders while rotating the back, the longer side of the DB just a hair higher**)

@musiccitymusclegym

to: nts om e v re ne.c i u z o a y g mit efitma l Sub l i v ash @n info

LOCAL EVENTS OCTOBER October 27 Haloween Costume P.R. Party Music City Muscle at 5:30pm October 28 Static Monsters Strongman Comp Music City Muscle at 10am

NOVEMBER November 4 Wrap Party For Fitness Crawl Scissors & Scotch 7-9p RSVP info@nashvillefitmagazine.com November 23 Music City Turkey Trot Nissan Stadium November 25 FULL BELLY Fun Run Shelby Park

DECEMBER December 31 NYE Live: Nashville’s Big Bash Bicentennial Capitol Mall

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www.squeezemassage.com/appointment/location/5/moreinfo/brentwood

I’m (Not) Down with the Sickness

By Adrienne Neale, Holistic Made Easy

Ever you ever wondered why people get sick more often during the holidays? Sure, it may have to do with getting less sunlight, but your diet plays a HUGE role in immune health as well.

The majority of your immune health is in your gut.

This means that if you spend your time going from the candy holiday to the pie holiday to the cookie holiday to toasting the new year and indulging all the more.

All of that sugar significantly reduces your immune system function. The gluten, dairy, processed oils, artificial colors, flavors and processed ingredients take a serious swipe at your gut health, also lowering your immune system. Add in late nights, stressful family gatherings, unrealistic expectations for a “perfect” holiday, traveling and de-railing from your usual routine – you’re destined to hit the wall if you’re not careful.

The hard truth is that the holidays don't magically put you into a bubble where your health is untouchable. If anything, the holidays are an even more important time to be mindful of your health.

Instead of indulging through nearly four months of holidays, here is a way to be proactive in maintaining your best health this season and beyond: Avoid seed and processed oils. They're inflammatory and cause all kinds of health issues Opt instead for coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil, animal fats like lard, tallow, bacon grease.

Try alternative recipes for treats or support a local business that does delicious treats in a much healthier way (psst- I have a free gift for you within the QR code!)

Support your immune system with things like elderberry syrup, colloidal silver, quercetin and bromelain, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin D, monolaurin (derived from coconut), immune supporting essential oil blends, or taking fire cider (hit me up for this recipe!)

If you do get sick, the above things can help reduce illness time. Additionally, you can breathe in hot steam to reduce coughing, nasal congestion and chest congestion; get plenty of rest or drink non-carbonated or sugar-laden fluids.

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Instead of destroying healthy bacteria with the bad bacteria and virus germs by using bleach and other harsh cleaners, opt for the probiotic cleaner from Culleoka Co - it will clean your surfaces beautifully and leave behind the good bacteria Utilize an infrared sauna, epsom salt baths, getting sunshine Maintain some kind of workout routine – even if it’s taking walks, doing bodyweight movements and stretching. Keep moving as exercise is a stress-reducer, immune-booster and does wonders for your mental health, too!

Mindfulness activities including praying, positive thinking, saying verbal affirmations are all helpful especially when stressed or feeling sad; maintaining positive mental health is directly tied to physical health Don’t let other people’s drama ruin your day. Choose to forgive, take a break, walk away, breathe deeply. Anger, fear, worry all affect your physical health.

If you’re hosting a get-together, choose healthier options; if you’re going to someone’s house, offer to bring something that you know you can eat (or eat before/afterwards) If you choose to indulge- choose ONE thing. One. Not five. One. Then get back on track.

I’m sharing my Clean Holiday Meal Guide with some of my favorite clean tried-and-true family recipes (Paleo friendly with other options included) – including my Nan Nan’s 4thgeneration pumpkin pie recipe - made clean! Snag it for FREE at the QR code - I hope this resource and the suggestions above are helpful for you this season!

Cheers to good health, Adrienne Let’s connect! Find me @holisticmadeeasy on Instagram and Facebook

Disclaimer: this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to be regarded as medical advice or to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure disease or health issues. Consult a trusted practitioner before changing your regimen as every BODY is different and has different needs and levels of sensitivity depending on diet, overall health, and other factors.

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Rock Climbing & Hip Mobility

Photo by: William S. King

By Jonathen Shane Hip mobility is often an underrated and overlooked aspect of climbing prowess. When envisioning great climbers, we tend to conjure images of incredible upper body strength, one-arm lock-offs, and finger strength to hang onto minuscule holds. However, hip mobility, which encompasses strength and flexibility, is equally critical for climbers, regardless of their skill level. Training and enhancing neuromuscular awareness of the hips, including the glutes, hamstrings, hip flexors, and adductors, can provide a solid foundation for climbing success. This article delves into the significance of hip mobility and its multifaceted benefits in climbing and other sports and fitness pursuits.

The hips, housing some of the body's largest and most robust muscles, are often underutilized in climbing. Effectively engaging the hips allows climbers to maintain their center of gravity closer to the climbing surface, thus reducing the strain on their upper body. Furthermore, improved hip mobility enables climbers to access advantageous leverage points and apply greater tension through the feet, legs, and core. Hip mobility is the hidden key to unlocking a climber's full potential.

One of the most noticeable effects of hip mobility on climbing is it’s impact on body positioning and center of gravity. Mobile hips enable climbers to keep their hands, feet, and hips closer to a vertical line, enhancing overall stability.

In contrast, limited hip mobility can hinder climbers from maintaining stable positions, particularly in situations that require open hip positions, controlled external rotation, and abduction of the hips. Hamstring flexibility becomes crucial when aiming for optimal positions with a flexed hip and extended knee.

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On the other hand, hamstring and glute mobility are vital for stability in closed hip positions and essential for executing advanced techniques such as back steps and drop knee maneuvers. Climbers often transition between closed and open hip orientations on overhang and cave routes to maintain control and conserve energy, emphasizing the versatility of hip mobility.

Dynamic movements, a hallmark of climbing, benefit immensely from hip mobility. Techniques like dead points and dynos become more efficient when climbers engage their hips in addition to their upper body strength. Precisely placing the feet while sitting on the hips with extended arms allows climbers to use their hips like a pendulum to gain momentum, reducing the reliance on upper body strength. Even in situations with limited hip movement possibilities, controlled hip thrusts can make a significant difference in achieving desired outcomes. Proper hip mobility ensures climbers can keep their center of gravity close to the wall during dynamic movements, preventing unnecessary strain on the upper body.

In climbing, versatility is vital. Climbers often find themselves contorting into various body positions to conquer challenging routes. Excellent hip mobility facilitates accessing a more comprehensive range of holds and stable body orientations. It enables climbers to execute high-foot placements on holds occupied by their hands, use heel hooks for controlled transitions, and maintain superior stability while flagging. Trusting in one's feet and maximizing hip mobility makes climbing movements more efficient, conserving precious energy in the upper body. Although these movements may initially feel challenging and unfamiliar, dedicated work on hip mobility will make them more accessible over time.

Enhancing hip mobility not only benefits climbing but also translates into improved performance in other sports and fitness activities. In contact sports like football and rugby, greater hip strength and control make tackling more challenging. In combat sports, enhanced hip mobility boosts kicking speed and power and the efficiency of evasive maneuvers. Grappling sports facilitates pressuring opponents, accessing a broader range of guard positions, and controlling their body alignment. Runners can generate power through an extended range of motion and conserve energy with longer strides. Hip mobility, therefore, serves as a versatile asset that can elevate performance across a spectrum of physical activities.

In conclusion, hip mobility is a hidden gem in climbing and fitness. While climbers often prioritize upper body strength, neglecting hip mobility can limit their potential. However, understanding and improving hip mobility can significantly enhance climbing performance by optimizing body positioning, center of gravity control, hip-generated momentum, and the ability to access advantageous points of contact.

Moreover, the benefits of enhanced hip mobility extend beyond climbing, making it a valuable asset in various sports and fitness pursuits. Therefore, climbers and athletes should recognize hip mobility's importance and incorporate targeted training to unlock their full potential.

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INDIVIDUALIZED GROUP TRAINING WITH MADABOLIC By: Nicole Swickle

No mirrors. No microphone. No influencer vibes By: Nicole Swickle

I wouldn’t be surprised if you described your first group fitness class as chaotic or confusing. Of course, that’s not by design but by the speed at which the class is led, the space available to train, and the wide variety of movements to keep up with. The minute you get in your groove, it’s off to the next.

Stepping foot into a new gym is intimidating enough. Layer in the loud music, a perfectly toned instructor who doesn’t miss a beat, a range of weights and all the stations – and your therapeutic hour of movement quickly turns into an internal anxiety attack. If this sentiment resonates, you’re not alone.

MADabolic opened its doors to Nashville in February 2022. The foundation for their programming rests on structure and individualized group training.

No mirrors. No microphone. No influencer vibes. As someone who prefers mind/muscle connection over ego lifting and 1:1 correction rather than being called out on a speaker, the concept of a routine-driven gym designed to help its members build lean muscle spoke to me.

With boutique gyms at every corner in our ever-changing new Nashville, MADabolic’s approach is a breath of fresh air. Here are three things to know about MADabolic: THE OWNERS STARTED AS MEMBERS. Owners Will Shytle and Brandon Fotopoulos, met as MADabolic members living in Charlotte. The two would see each other four days a week at the 5:30am class. Will and Brandon quickly became friends and later decided to open a location of their own.

“We started out wanting to look and feel better,” said Will. “Next thing you know, we’re business partners. We’re normal dudes who love MADabolic and what it represents.”

As I spoke with the owners, it was clear how fiercely passionate they are about helping people at all levels. Despite the aesthetic of the dark walls and well-equipped gym floor, this facility belongs to everyone. The owners lit up as they shared anecdotes about women kicking their cardio habits and stories of clients gaining better balance and mobility. It was clear there’s something special here.

REST IS CELEBRATED. We live in a society that glorifies the grind. And while MADabolic’s programming is designed to test strength and stamina, their pre-determined 52-week calendar also carves out room for self-care.

“The body isn’t meant to operate at 100% all the time,” said Brandon. “We lower the pace on certain days to build you up for others. It’s a slow and steady grind for our Durability days to help you hit 100% on an Anaerobic day. Your body needs to recover adequately for it to perform and look the way you want it to."

Both Will and Brandon pride themselves on being a part of their members’ day and working with their busy lives, not being their whole lives. Members are encouraged to come four times a week.

BY-THE-NUMBERS. As you’re considering how MADabolic might integrate with your skill and comfort level, here are some quick hits: Classes are 50 minutes in length. The gym floor has 5 lines. Each class includes 5 movements. Each member has 6 feet of space If you’re someone who feels anxious walking into group fitness, this structure might be your saving grace.

The science behind their programming is built with the goal of increasing strength and promoting lean muscle. MAD appropriately stands for Momentum (a fusion of athleticism and endurance), Anaerobic (a combination of speed and power) and Durability (strength and stamina).

If during group fitness, your voice of doubt screams, “is my form ok?” and “am I doing it right?” MADabolic’s personalized attention can help redirect that energy into undeniable progress.

For more info, visit: https://www.madabolic.com/location/Nashville MADabolic Nashville is offering 5 days for $5

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In the Kitchen with Carissa I co-own Revive Retreats and have the privilege of crafting all the meals for our gatherings. My passion for cooking and uniting people through food was nurtured during my upbringing in a household where the kitchen was my happy place. My culinary approach doesn't focus on extravagance; rather, I take traditionally less healthy American dishes and transform them into wholesome alternatives. Ingredient quality plays a pivotal role in my creations. My mission is to demystify the often daunting quest for nutritious eating, making it accessible and straightforward. I aim to return to the fundamentals and simplify the culinary experience, reinforcing the idea that food is not just a pleasure but a vital aspect of our well-being. It's about eating for sustenance, not just indulgence.

Savory Spinach and Artichoke Stuffing Photo By Jack Barga

INGREDIENTS 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 3 pounds spinach, washed, stems removed 2 cups chopped sweet onions 1 tablespoon chopped garlic 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend 2 1/2 teaspoons salt 1 1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper Two 8 1/2-ounce cans quartered artichoke hearts 6 large eggs 3 cups heavy cream 2 cups milk 12 to 14 cups 1-inch cubes sourdough bread 1 pound Brie cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Scan to watch the video 1/2 cup cubed Cheddar cheese DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the spinach and cook until just wilted, about 30 seconds.

Drain and rinse with cold water. Once cool, squeeze as much water as possible from the spinach, then coarsely chop and reserve; you should have about 3 cups.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until golden brown and tender, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and cook, stirring, until the garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the artichokes and cook, stirring, another 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and reserve.

Combine the eggs, cream, milk, remaining 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, remaining 2 teaspoons salt, and remaining 1 teaspoon pepper in a large bowl. Whisk to combine. Add the bread cubes, spinach, artichoke mixture, Brie, 1/4 cup Parmesan, cheddar cubes, and stir to combine. If the bread does not absorb all of the liquid immediately, then let rest until it does, about 20 minutes.

Pour the bread pudding mixture into the prepared dish, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan over the top, and drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Bake until firm in the center and golden brown, about 1 hour. Serve warm.

NASHVILLE FIT MAGAZINE

PAGE 36