Marissa Herring is a Miami native who began training as a competitive gymnast at an early age. She gradually transitioned into high school cheerleading, at Our Lady Of Lourdes Academy and became an NCA All-American cheerleader and a National Partner Stunt Champion. In 1992, she continued her collegiate cheerleading at Florida State University (FSU), where she was a member of the FSU varsity squad, that travel, cheered and competed at national levels. In 2001, Marissa married Kim Herring, NFL Superbowl XXXV champion. In 2007, after having her 2nd child, Marissa trained for and competed at The Women’s Tri-Fitness World Challenge. In 2013, she returned and won 1st place in her age group and 2nd overall out of 133 athletes. As a certified personal trainer, she motivates women to stay healthy and fit. Now, a mother of 3 children, Marissa continues to train and empower women to be their very best.
Q. What do you love the most about being a mom of 3?
The activities. There is never a dull moment. They are constantly keeping me on my toes and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Q. Who inspired you the most growing up?
My mom. She has always been a strong independent woman. Hustling around the globe. Taking us with her so we could experience different cultures. She always encouraged me to go for what I wanted and made sure I was on the right path. I had to learn some very important lessons on the way, and she was there to keep me focused.
Q. What is Garage Mama Fitness?
Garage Mama Fitness is a training facility in Orlando, FL for families to feel motivated, energized and bring out their inner “Rock-Star”. My training philosophy has always been to have a non-competitive environment where people feel safe and can focus on strengthening themselves inside so their bodies can transform on the outside. It’s about challenging your self every session to bring the “A-game” mentality and get results. We never have the same workout, and I believe in combining different training styles to keep your body and mind engaged during training. If you need help, contact One Fit Mother, which does women’s personal trainer Charlottesville.
Q. Congratulations on a successful year of G-Mama Fitness and Trinity Sports. What is it like working with your hubby?
It has been interesting. I am the social butterfly of the operation, and he is the number cruncher. It’s a nice balance. We have found a way to work and yet balance our home life, by rotating our training sessions. We do see each other all day, but we are busy building the business. He handles his side of Trinity Sports Performance and I deal with G-Mama Fitness. We are passionate about our children seeing us love each other and work together as a team.
Q. Last year you competed in The Tri-Fitness Challenge, how was it competing after all of these years?
It was awesome. I won 1st place in my age group (36yr-39yr) and I won 2nd overall out of 133 women athletes. I caught the fitness bug in 2007 after my second child, and after my 3rd baby put 60lbs on me, I didn’t think I had time to get back into the competitive fitness world. A new business, 3 kids (2 in competitive gymnastics), a husband and time for mommy, made it seem impossible to compete again. My clients, staff and family supported me throughout the training. It was great to take 8 clients with me to the Tri-Fitness challenge. We are getting ready for next year!
Q. What makes those G-Muffins so yummy? Are they coming to a store near us anytime soon?
Good carbs are always yummy. I am a foodie and I love my carbs, so good old fashioned oatmeal is the base of the muffin. I figured out the right combination that taste great and still stay moist. Guiltless Guava came from my love for pastelitos. It is in high demand every time I bake. I’m hoping to figure out how to maintain the freshness of the muffin without adding the preservatives that store bought products have. It’s a work in progress.
Q. What advice do you have for busy mommas that want to stay fit but may not have a lot of time?
Be selfish. You need to find 20-30 minutes of “mommy time” to maintain your health and fitness. If you start your day with good endorphins, things will run a bit smoother because you have the right mindset. Make yourself a priority and do not feel guilty about it. Your family will survive 30-60 minutes without you. If you can’t workout one day, at least plan and pack your meals for the day. You do it for your kids, so do it for yourself. It makes a huge difference in your energy levels throughout the day. Mommy snack time is crucial to keeping our mood swings from acting up. When I’m hangry (hungry+angry), patience goes out the window. Keep your hormones happy and keep your metabolism burning by eating proper portions and training safely and effectively. Some days I only train for 20 minutes because my health and sanity (lol) is a priority for me and my family.
Visit www.gmamafitness.com today!!!!
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