“Memphis made me, Cali raised me, Jesus Saved me!” – Natalie

Natalie Davis turns tragedy into triumph. While healing from a toxic relationship, the 37-year-old wellness and business coach captured a magical moment with her mom that helped her win our May 2021 photo contest.

Natalie, also admits that her fitness journey took some twists and turns but honoring those who are no longer here motivated her to get back on track. Keep reading as she shares the fun workouts, inspiring Instagram accounts, and goals that keep her going.

Tell us how your winning photo came about?

Earlier this year, I left a harmful relationship. After my exit, things took a very uncomfortable turn, so I decided it was time to visit my mom. We went to The Valley of Fire in Nevada, and I enjoyed every second. My mama took this photo, and it means a lot to me. I’m in a season of restoration and healing. Just a side note, she’s super giddy and adorable about this contest win. Thanks again. 

Please briefly share your fitness journey with us.

I started running long distances in 2008 to honor my dad and grandmother. They both had terrible asthma that eventually claimed their life. Over time I stopped being a distance runner. Life happened, and I gained the weight of depression on my body. I started my fitness journey and a business to help lose that weight. I worked out at home and led virtual fitness groups to help others do the same. Up until the last spring, I would only run a few miles here and there. When Ahmaud Arbery was murdered, I joined in on a daily run streak honoring his life. It didn’t take long before I fell back in love with long-distance running. This year I have run a half marathon in 6 different states, and I am continuing my pursuit to complete all 50.

We believe fitness + friendship = FUN! What is your favorite group fitness workout? 

Virtually, my favorite group fitness workout to teach and participate in is HIIT. In person, I absolutely love trail running with The Breakfast Run Club in Los Angeles. We eat miles for breakfast. The area is beautiful, and so are the people. 

While working out is essential, so is eating the right foods. What is your go-to pre-workout meal? How do you refuel after a workout?

Before I workout, I love those little honey stinger waffles ($6.29) with some fruit or a light shake. To be perfectly honest, I want an ice-cold coke after a long run. My food depends on the time of day. I usually have rice or sweet potatoes, some veggies and some kind of meat. I’m so hungry after I work out. I like to enjoy a full meal.

What is one item that is always in your gym bag?

Sunscreen. I enjoy Tanri ($15) because it doesn’t melt down with my workout and get in my eyes. 

What are your top 3 fitness Instagram accounts to follow? 

Aside from Pretty Girls Sweat,
@thebreakfastrunclub @movementrunners and@monitorthebeat
The first two are my family, my run community. They are amazing.

What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

Most people are surprised that I’m a twin with two sets of twins and that my twin sister has a set of twins. That usually gets a lot of oohhs and aahhs

What are the top three goals you hope to accomplish in life?

1. To build generational wealth.
2. For my kiddos to understand their birthright and live a life of abundance.
3. That God uses me more than any person ever could. While I’m a reflection of my earthly father, my Heavenly Father is seen all over me as well.

What does PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT mean to you? 

Our hard work is a big part of our beauty, and our determination, power, grit, and strength are something to marvel at and appreciate. We’re another form of art.

Since PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT, what is your favorite deodorant?

Secret Outlast ($4.99)

Favorite Quote:

I’m a lover of words. Right now a favorite is “The axe forgets, the tree remembers” it’s a Zimbabwean proverb. 
The axe is what it is, and the tree will always be injured at it’s hands. This helps me to see people for who they are. No matter the power that axe can carry and the acceptance that it has; I want to be that life giving tree. I never want to be what cuts anyone down. 

How can readers stay in touch with you on social media? 

IG: @mycoachnatalie