MY STORY
THE EARLY YEARS
Even as a child, I was very active with “unlimited amounts of energy.” Born to a single working mother, I was enrolled in many activities including dancing, rollerblading, softball, and others out of the “need” to keep me out of trouble rather than developing my athletic prowess. As I bounced from different relatives’ homes with little guidance, I often found myself in uncomfortable predicaments.
MY STRUGGLE
As a young adult, I felt lost and confused. I struggled with many issues including feelings of inadequacy, mistrust, guilt, and fears. I used alcohol as a means to cope while often asking myself “is this all there is to life?”
THE TURNING POINT
As a result of a lifetime of drinking, my biological father passed away in 2010. Though he and I were not close (note: we first met when I was 11), the event prompted me to change. I went from living day-to-day to ensuring I had a future.
THE PROCESS
With a new commitment to my future, I started frequenting my local gym, hiring trainers, and learning how the body works. This experience led to certifications, success in various fitness competitions, and the start of my career in fitness.
TODAY
I am a full-time wellness coach/educator and continue to further my education and skills. I now live in San Francisco, married, continue to compete, train consistently, study Capoeira (Brazilian Martial Arts since 2017), and cook most of what I eat at home.
I commit part of my time on the weekends to a local community center leading an awesome fitness’ group who are now friends. Though the time and commitment is minimal, the experience has been one of the most rewarding of my fitness career.
The love, curiosity, and amazement for the human body and mind and how our lifestyle affects how we look and feel led me here. The favorite part of my “job” is when a client reaches a new milestone as their accomplishment fills me with joy! Regardless of where you are in your life journey, if you do not love your trajectory, you can reroute.
You have the power to change! As I did!
~Angiel Stahley~