Meet Dr. Breigel Payne!
What is your main health and wellness goal?
I have always loved to be active. I loved sports and playing outside as a child, and strive to keep that playful perspective with regards to my health and wellness as an adult. My main health and wellness goal is to feel happy. On days I am able to work out, I feel so much more alive and energetic. My mind feels clearer and my thoughts are more crisp! Exercise, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle allow me to not only embrace happiness internally, but also put more happiness out into the world. I also love to set goals for myself for running, spinning, and group fitness classes. It is so fun to see yourself accomplish a little more each week.
What is your favorite thing about Milestone?
I can’t pick just one thing! I love the people, the classes, the childcare, the equipment, and the cleanliness! From the people at the front desk to our friends in the childcare to the trainers to the other members, everyone is always so kind and welcoming. I also love how many different classes there are!
How long have you been a member of Milestone?
We have been members for six years!
What is one thing you would like to tell others who want to start an exercise program but don’t know where to start?Even a small step forward is moving forward! While it is great to set long term fitness goals, it is overwhelming to look too far ahead. Set your goals, then set small daily and weekly goals that gradually work up to your long term goals. I like to remember that the joy is in the journey, not the destination, and smaller daily goals help reinforce the daily joy of exercise. Also, having a fitness friend makes all the difference in the world! Diana Hoagland is my fitness buddy, and working out with her keeps me accountable to my goals, and I feel more confidence and have more fun trying new classes when we go together!
How has becoming a mom changed your view on health and wellness or your exercise journey?
Becoming a mom gave me a whole new perspective on how truly incredible the human body is! There were times during my pregnancy and the short term after that I would become frustrated with my body, but then I had to stop and think, “Wait! I’m growing a human! How incredible is that!?” Also, being a mom of a girl has really made me think about how much I want to instill confidence, body love, and healthy habits in her from a young age. There is so much mixed media, especially for young girls, about body image, diets, and what is beautiful. I want her to enjoy sports, nature, food, and see her body as an incredible gift!
What is your favorite active thing to do as a family?
We love to go on runs in Cherokee Park, swing, and go on walks to watch the squirrels, bunnies, and birds in our neighborhood after dinner.
What is your guilty pleasure/indulgence?
Steel City Pops and Coal’s Pizza!
Have questions for Briegel? Drop us a line by submitting a comment below!
