From Overcoming Setbacks to Inspiring Wellness: Meet the Fitness Pro on a Mission!
July 24, 2023 • By PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT
The Clark Atlanta University alum is determined to help people attain a better quality of life.
Brittany Washington is making waves in the world of health and wellness. At just 32 years old, hailing from Philadelphia, PA, this powerhouse redefines what it means to be a fitness coach, educator, and group fitness instructor. But her journey hasn’t been without challenges. In an exclusive interview, she shares how her faith, perseverance, and passion for fitness have shaped her remarkable path to success. Discover how our July 2023 photo contest winner turned setbacks into triumphs, and learn what drives her to create a one-stop community hub for wellness. Plus, she reveals her favorite group fitness workout, go-to pre-workout snack, and the surprising story behind her winning photo. Prepare to be inspired as we dive into her unstoppable fitness journey!
Favorite quote:
My favorite quote is a bible verse!
3 Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance. 4 And endurance (fortitude) develops maturity of character (approved faith and tried integrity). And character [of this sort] produces [the habit of] joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation. 5 Such hope never disappoints or deludes or shames us, for God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us.
– Romans 5:3-5 AMPC
Tell us how your winning photo came about.
I’ve been in a place where I am rebranding the vision for my life and who I am as a fitness, health, and wellness professional, and this photoshoot resulted from that. My Soror (@Quturemedia on IG) is the photographer and was absolutely amazing. We ran into a number of setbacks, such as a power outage during this shoot. However, her professionalism and patience were top-tier. The contest-winning photo was actually the final photo of the day! I was overjoyed we could complete it despite all our issues. Not only that, but the image is so joyful as a result of progress. This photo shoot was a goal of mine accomplished despite too many setbacks to count. This photo symbolizes not just starting something but finishing it no matter what circumstances were handed to us.
Please briefly share your fitness journey with us.
I have always been an athlete growing up (cheerleading, track, softball, etc.), but my true interest in fitness sparked in college at Clark Atlanta University through dance! After graduating, with my Psychology degree, I started my journey in dance fitness as a Zumba Instructor. Since then, I’ve received various group fitness certifications ranging from MixedFit to Power Indoor Cycling, Vibe Ride cycling, Kickboxing, and more!
As time passed, I became a NASM Personal Trainer and Small Group Training Coach with my brand True Grit Fitness & Wellness. I currently train at FDL Compound in Atlanta, GA. As a continuation, I progressed into bodybuilding and fitness competitions. My first competition was 2.5 years ago, and I’m finally in the process of training for another one! I am now progressing into the world of wellness, as I have received certifications as a Weight Loss Specialist, Behavioral Change Specialist, and I am currently in the process of various nutrition and health coaching certifications. I consider myself a forever student, so this is only the beginning for me!
My journey has been a trying one, whose hasn’t been right?! However, I believe my journey has and is cultivating my perspective, GRIT, and faith personally and professionally. I have a genuine passion for the condition and development of people in all areas of life (mental, spiritual, and emotional as well), not just physical.
We believe fitness + friendship = FUN! What is your favorite group fitness workout?
My favorite group fitness workout is HIIT and Strength style workouts. I also LOVE dance. Before my car accident in December 2022 that paused my endeavors for a while, I was teaching a group fitness class that encompassed all of those things called B.A.D.D & Bodied. B.A.D.D. stood for Bands, Abs, Dance & Dumbbells! Since I had to recover from that, I paused class instruction. The goal is to bring that back soon, so more exciting details will come!
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?
Personally, I cannot eat too heavily before a workout, so my go-to snack is two rice cakes with peanut butter and blueberries. Maybe I’ll add a drizzle of honey if I’m feeling like I want something sweet. Don’t knock it until you try it!
After my workout, I’ll refuel with something heavy in protein (at least 20g). They may be a 1st Phorm protein smoothie or a protein bar. However, if I have time or have prepped, my go-to’s are an egg scramble with spinach, a protein of choice, and oatmeal.
What is one item that is always in your gym bag?
If I had to choose just one thing, I pick my workout gloves because I go HEAVY. I had to rebuild the capability to go heavy, so I understand building from the basics. When I work out, it’s go big or go home because I’m grateful to be able to push my limits. Of course, I listen to my body, but it’s usually go time when I get there.
What are your top 3 fitness Instagram accounts to follow?
What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
I have had a total of 4 surgeries in my life and need a 5th with a meniscus tear from an accident about 7 months ago. If it weren’t for fitness, health, and wellness being such a huge part of my life, I would not be in the overall health I am now. It is because of my faith, fitness, health, and journey to wholeness that I am even here right now, and it is what I stand on with my brand True Grit Fitness & Wellness. It’s possible to overcome any situation. It’s all about perspective, perseverance, and taking care of yourself!
What are the top three goals you hope to accomplish in life?
- My long-term goal is to create/build a wellness community hub. A one-stop shop community for all things health and wellness related. A place where someone can come to one building (a gym) if they need a Fitness Coach. Additionally, they could go next door if they needed a health coach or nutritionist/dietitian. Or if they want a massage therapist or a chiropractor, they can go two doors down, and so on! It’s all about a connection and creating a web of community to help people attain one goal – a better quality of life!
- Another goal is to be able to travel and bring awareness to the importance of being whole in relation to your health and wellness (spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally) and how they all correlate to a person’s fortitude to live quality.
- I also want to travel and participate in fitness and health boot camps and health/wellness events! I want to motivate, encourage and give women the tools and know-how to take care of themselves and be STONG and POWERFUL in all areas.
What do the words PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT mean to you?
PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT means that no matter who you are, what walk of life you are in, and what circumstances you are given, fitness and health are achievable for you. It’s a stand against the many health disadvantages, stigmas, and obstacles women (young or seasoned) face daily. It is supporting and giving women their flowers. PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT pushes and serves the community and encourages support among women for the common goal of health.
Lastly, when I hear Pretty Girls Sweat, it means that we as women can work hard, sweat, and be strong. At the same time, we can still be feminine, powerful, and bold. This is something I truly stand for with my brand True Grit Fitness & Wellness as well. We can be Pretty and Gritty, Fit and Feminine, Beauties and Beasts in all areas! I LOVE PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT, and I am absolutely grateful for this opportunity!
Since PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT, what is your favorite deodorant?
I honestly keep it simple. I love Dove Advance deodorant, the Revive scent. (Amazon, $9.88 – 2 count)
How can readers stay in touch with you on social media?
Follow me on all social media outlets using @truegritfitwell (Tiktok, IG, Threads, Twitter). I am currently accepting clients, so feel free to reach out via these outlets.
Want to be a finalist in our upcoming photo contest? Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to showcase your fitness journey! Follow us on Instagram @prettygirlssweat and tag us in your best fitness photos. We can’t wait to see your inspiring entries!
