As a mom in her 40’s, I thought the fittest years of my life would be far behind me. Don’t get me wrong – I have always been active; therefore, switching my exercise routine was not that out of the ordinary. What was, however, was switching that routine to CrossFit. Who starts CrossFit in their 40’s?? Well, apparently me – and I loved it – still do!! Unfortunately, within the first 3 months, I saw my weight steadily climbing. Yes, I was getting stronger, but I was also getting bigger. I didn’t care for that; I didn’t want to look like a man! Some really important people at my CrossFit box told me about Ellen. “Just call Ellen,” they would say, “she can help you.” I was scared; I didn’t want to change my routine and I certainly didn’t want to stop CrossFit. What I learned from Ellen is that I didn’t have to. She meticulously incorporated my fitness plan into my meal plan, structuring my carbs around my workouts and ensuring I had enough fat and protein to make it through my day. I was eating SO.MUCH.FOOD! The main thing I learned is that by limiting carbs (even eliminating them), I was doing an injustice to my body. I simply wasn’t eating enough. Who knew?! And who knew it could be that easy?!!
I have learned terminology that was not in my wheelhouse. I know how to combine foods to make them work for me. I love what this program has taught me and I L.O.V.E my gracious and supportive coaches. I am so appreciative of them and the time they have taken to get to know ME…because when it really comes down to it, I didn’t have to change that much and I am thankful for that!!
Rhoda Weck
I began working with Natashia in November and have nothing but good things to say, except that I wish I had hired her way sooner! On the technical side of things, the app we use to track workouts (and PRs), macros, progress photos and correspond with other teammates has been a game changer. On the personal side of things, I have really appreciated the attention to detail I have been shown -- even so far as getting mid-week program tweaks, and even some one-on-one training and posing. (And I have never had to wait long to get responses back, which is huge because communication is everything). I also feel like she genuinely cares about me as a person along with my health, and has been supportive and encouraging from Day 1. I am so glad that I have her guidance and feel confident that I am on the right track for accomplishing my first figure competition in 2021! Thanks, Natashia!
Haley Johnson
I joined team DNA two weeks out from my first bikini competition after having some health issues as a result of my previous coach/training. My previous coach had me training 6 days per week and doing over an hour of cardio per day in addition to weight training. I was eating 1200 calories with 74g protein, 34g carbs, and 91g fat (1200 calories are never appropriate, but I’m 5’9” so this is especially awful), and water intake was restricted to 64oz/day for months. My digestion, sleep, and stress levels were trash. I was constantly exhausted and relied on about 600-900mg caffeine to get me through the day. Elle steadily increased my calories and quickly decreased cardio. She taught me the importance of regular digestion, rest days, proper sleep, and stress management. Currently, I am weight training 4-5x per week, doing ZERO cardio, and maintaining weight on 2600 calories, 175g protein, 330g carbs, and 75g fat. All of my indicators of health are spot on, caffeine has been reduced to one cup of coffee per day, and my energy level stays consistent! Elle has communicated with me about every change flawlessly and is not too prideful to seek guidance when necessary. I couldn’t ask for a better coach, and to say I’m grateful for DNA Training and Nutrition is an understatement. I am so excited to see where this journey leads me with the guidance of Team DNA.
Trish Thigpen
I randomly met Elle several years ago while she was working in Austin, and commented on her physique. Well that sparked up the conversation of bodybuilding and how she was currently in prep, and how I used to bodybuild as well, many years ago (like 20). We chatted for quite a while and that conversation reminded me how much I missed working out, and competing. Some time went on, and I ran into her right before her National show, and of course watched and cheered her on from a far. Shortly after her show, I saw that she was taking on clients. I knew that she would not steer me wrong, and give me the attention, and that little extra push that I needed to start working out again. I tried a few other coaches, and they took my money, and gave me some ridiculous cookie cutter diet and exercise program. I knew that Elle was not like other coaches, that this was her passion.
So fast forward - I signed up for lifestyle coaching July of 2020 with a starting weight of 168 lbs, the heaviest I have ever been in my life! Now I hadn't worked out in about 15 years, so I was a little nervous. Could I do this? Do I have enough time? I think I was trying to talk myself out of it. I had my phone consultation, and Elle talked to me about my goals and reassured me that we would create a sustainable program for me. She worked with me to create delicious meal plans and workout programs that were challenging, yet doable. So.... 6 months into this program, 20 lbs. lighter, and turning 48, I did some soul searching. I decided that I wanted to get back on stage by the time I was 50. I talked to Elle, and asked her if this were possible. She was stoked, and once again assured me that I could do this, that we could do this. We started planning how to execute this journey. This would mean that I would need to put on some muscle, and get uncomfortable with gaining weight. However; this is the process, and I have put all of my trust in Elle, and she has not steered my wrong. I am currently still working on putting on muscle (sitting at 158 lbs. and loving every minute of this process) and the plan is to step on stage in 2022. Who would have thought that it was even possible.
I am so grateful that I signed up for coaching with Elle. I thought my days of bodybuilding and competing were a thing of my past. Elle has taught me so much along the way, and when I have any questions or concerns she answers them right away, there is never a moment when I feel like I'm just another client. Like I said this is Elle's passion, and, it truly shows by the support and attention that she gives. She's not just another pretty coach. This lady knows her stuff!!!!
Thanks Elle, I am so blessed to have you as my coach!!! I can't wait for 2022 - watch out stage.... I'm coming for you!