Marissa McDonald

March 2026 vs October 2026. I created my plan in March. Haven’t missed since! I’ve been sick, mom duties, etc so I’ve maybe had to alter the plan a bit here and there…But CONSISTENCY is key! And that weights/hot Pilates sculpt/solidcore combo has been TEA for me! Don’t let anyone tell you there aren’t benefits to multiple movement methods...however...remember I created my plan to work for me! The “average” person needs to prioritize strength training FIRST. Yes, try all the things…but weights over everything!!

#chicagopersonaltrainer #chicagofitness #motivation #fitmoms

Same outfit all the way back to 2021. A truly horrible time for me 😵‍💫 I barely remember being in that body on the left. I was so depressed/lonely/miserable. NEVER AGAIN. Thank God for growth, therapy, BOUNDARIES, resilience, and discipline. Eventually you really do just get tired of your own BS and LOCK IN ⏳

This was my progress from February 2024-April 2025.
Pilates SCULPT (not classical or reformer, they are different!) and solidcore (also not Pilates) have been apart of the 2026 plan but make no mistake! Progress was being made before with JUST THE GYM! I’ve lifted for years. Muscle memory and maturity are very much a thing. So if you feel like you need to start with Pilates sculpt...you don’t. Focus on that gym! Focus on those weights! Then you add in the “fun” stuff or do it 1-2x weekly. Most of yall need to make building lean muscle your main focus! Not what you’ve seen on social media! Not even from me...this is MY plan. The best plan for YOU is the one that makes sense for YOU and that YOU can adhere to.