Exploring Life & Business with Megan Meisner of Megan Meisner Fitness

Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Meisner.

Hi Megan, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My personal fitness journey began while I was in high school. I was overweight and inactive. For my 16th birthday, my mom gave me a gym membership. When I began working out and making lifestyle changes, the extra weight dropped and my commitment to health and wellness continued to grow.

Wanting to share this eagerness with others, I applied to teach group fitness classes at my local gym. I was turned down. This didn’t stop me.

I went on to achieve two Bachelor’s Degrees from Illinois State University, in Program Management and Commercial Recreation, along with an Exercise Science minor.

Since then, I have competed in two NPC Bikini competitions, was featured in the Rising Stars column of Oxygen magazine, have worked with some of the most ambitious clients, married my best friend, overcame four miscarriages before having our son in 2020 and have turned my pastime into my passion.

I partner with leading fitness and lifestyle brands to provide exceptional marketing services including social media marketing campaigns, influencer campaigns, content creation, blog writing, and more.

As the fitness industry continues to evolve, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction and knowledge from noise. That’s one of the reasons I decided to become an ISSA (International Sports Sciences Association) Certified Fitness Trainer. My certifications also include Adult CPR/AED. I specialize in online fitness programs, accountability programs, nutrition, prenatal/postnatal fitness, and youth fitness.

Megan Meisner Fitness emphasizes activity, nutrition, and restoration. In a world that overwhelms us with diet plans, new workout routines, and the latest “stress-busting, abs-lusting” claims, my fitness community will help you silence the distractions and focus on mindfulness, self-awareness, and support to reach your goals. The emphasis is on progression, not perfection.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve experienced was the journey of becoming a mom. Between July 2017 and March 2020, my husband and I experienced 4 miscarriages. I felt discouraged and defeated, both physically and emotionally. There is a “secret shame” connected to miscarriage because no one talks about it. The isolation and guilt of thinking a miscarriage is “your fault” can put you in a dark place.

When we received the news in the spring of 2020 (just 3 days before the country went into lockdown) that we were pregnant, during a time when the world was filled with uncertainty and negativity, I clung to hope and faith in God that He would bless us with a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. In November 2020, Baby Clancy was born. He brings us so much joy and has forever changed our lives.

As a result, I’ve designed an online fitness program called MomBod. This program is designed specifically for moms, expecting moms, and women trying to get pregnant. We focus on low to moderate intensity exercises that help improve strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health in a positive and supportive atmosphere.

As you know, we’re big fans of Megan Meisner Fitness. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
In a world that encourages you to “just do it” – with no excuses, while going hard, after hustling (and before grinding), a rest day can feel like giving up. Years ago, I supported the notion of working out seven days a week. I was convinced that every workout had to be as difficult, if not more so, than the previous. Over time, physical stress accumulated and the outcome was a herniated disc. Since then, I have found balance with workouts and in life. Some days I feel my strongest after completing a couple of push-ups. Other days, all I need is my little guy in a stroller, a good pair of walking shoes, sunglasses, water, and some warm weather to feel on top of the world after completing an outdoor walk.

When you avoid listening to your body, your body will speak up. Usually, in ways that stop you in your tracks–literally and figuratively. If you’re running your body like you run a business, ask yourself “what’s my bottom line?” Is the risk of working 24/7, 365 days a year worth the reward? What are you gaining by pulling all-nighters and pushing deadlines?

Megan Meisner Fitness embraces activity, nutrition, and restoration. Dedicate at least one day per week to restoration. This might mean staying in bed until 11 am. Or taking a yoga class. Restoration is meant to calm the body and calm the mind. Avoid doing anything that requires a great deal of energy.

-Visit your library.

-Schedule a manicure or massage.

-Call a friend.

-Send a handwritten note.

Over time you will discover the balance between pushing yourself and knowing when to back off. Embracing restoration will improve your self-awareness and your ability to listen to your body.

I currently teach at The Rec in Little Elm, where I also offer personal training. Online options include an 8-week Goal Getter program, 12-week Best Self program, and MomBod.

Image Credits
Bella Photo