About

MY STORY

About Dena

take a leap of faith.

Like many of you, I’m a working wife and mother. So I know how hard it can be to find time to exercise and still get quality food on the table. In fact, for years I talked the talk of health and wellness but actually felt stressed and exhausted most of the time. Something had to change.

So in 2014 I made a leap of faith. I began my journey to find meaningful work that incorporated my passion for nutrition and fitness with helping those around me in a significant way. While working full time in public health, I started studying to become a personal trainer, taking nutrition and coaching courses along the way.

Dena sitting on ground at overlook in Hawaii

feel better. perform better. live better.

I learned that eating whole, unprocessed foods not only made me feel better but look and perform better too. I learned that more exercise doesn’t always mean better exercise. I learned about the importance of managing all of the health-contributing aspects of my life – mental, physical and emotional. As I started to see results in my overall health, my philosophy and passion begin to align with my practices. Small changes over time have led to a point where I feel better, rarely get sick, have more energy, and continue to get stronger and more fit every day.

it’s all about balance.

These days, I balance grant writing and public health consulting with personal health and fitness coaching and work at a local gym. I’ve never been happier — or as driven to share what I’ve learned. Let’s work together to find the balance that’s right for you and your family

Dena on her mountain bike next to a lake
Dena hiking with her son

athlete. mother. wife.

Which brings me back to where I started. I’m a Mom and a wife. Together, my husband and I have two school-aged boys and two adult children. As a family, we love to cook and eat with family and friends. We love to camp, hike, kayak, backpack, and travel. It’s not always perfect, but we enjoy an active and passionate life.

I am living proof that change is possible. Are you ready to take the first step?

For all the technical stuff, check out my credentials and certifications.

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