Today we’d like to introduce you to Tia Ray.
Hi Tia, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
Hi there! My name is Tia, and I am a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor. In 2016, after having my second child via C-section, I suffered from postpartum cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure. This led me to gain a significant amount of weight, experience depression, and struggle with working out. However, my life changed when I discovered the HEAT XTREME program in 2020. By joining my Coach’s #1 online fitness program, the HEAT CHALLENGE, I was able to shed pounds, dropping from 200 lbs to 157 lbs. Since then, I have become a Levels Step Aerobics Fitness Instructor under Darrell Patterson.
Aside from my personal fitness journey, I also run a fitness line called Stay Humble Life Wear, which was created in honor of my late brother as we were working on a fitness line together. My brother was along my side as I started this journey. Despite his passing, I kept going and started teaching step aerobics classes as Humble Steppin’ with Tia.
My ultimate goal is to inspire individuals to never give up on their health and fitness and to create a sustainable, healthy lifestyle. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, anyone can achieve their goals with the right mindset and tools. If you are interested in booking me for your next fitness event, please email me at coachtia@stayhumble247fitness.org.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
This Journey has been far from smooth! I always say you have to be prepared for life at all times. You know it is going to happen, but it is how you adapt to it. I can start with the hardest challenge I faced, losing my one and only older brother. He was the healthiest, smartest, sweetest, genuine person that I knew. He left this earth unexpectedly. We talked every single day. I was in the middle of my journey when this happened. I could have given up and stayed in that low space. Instead of me giving in to life happenings, I decided to continue what we started. I know he would want me to not stop and put my health first. I continued and won a fitness challenge! Grieving never gets easy, but you learn how to adapt with it. Create a positive out of it. This is also why I decided to continue with the clothing line and keep going with fitness. It is my therapy now. It is more than fitness. I learned how it has helped me mentally and physically. I can actually give my all into something I love in order to help others as well. When you start to put yourself first, as a woman with children, you start to feel guilty at times. I suffered with guilt of not being the perfect mom. The dishes stayed in the sink a little longer, or the bed was not made up as quickly as it should. Laundry was not folded right away. These little things put pressure on me. I started to feel bad, but I was looking and feeling so much better as I continued to take care of me finally. I had to learn that it is ok! We have to take care of ourselves as well. We cannot pour from an empty cup. No one can refill it but you. Self-care became super important, and I can actually be present for my family now.
Another obstacle was learning how to eat the right foods for your body and like it! I had to create healthy habits. Sources say it takes about 21 days to create a habit. I had to change my mindset in order to achieve my fitness goals. This was a one-day-at-a-time process. I thank God for blessing me with the HEAT program. I now have a fitness family who has been there every step of the way, and I can call on them to push and help me through those types of struggles.
Body dysmorphia was and still is a struggle for me. I know my fitness journey is just that. It is a lifestyle that I choose to keep going with. With the right circle of people believing in you – you can do anything.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m currently attending Purdue University Global, majoring in Psychology, and set to graduate in April 2024. My career aspirations involve combining my passion for fitness with my knowledge of psychology to help people build their self-esteem and confidence. My ultimate goal is to open a fitness center where I can teach step and offer services that promote personal growth, and even host therapy sessions. I currently teach group fitness classes at LA Fitness in Cinco Ranch. I teach a full-body workout class as well as a step aerobics class every week. My clients enjoy my personality and the fun we have. We work hard and rock out too. I’m known for being outgoing, always looking for the positive in every situation, and being a go-getter. One thing I’m most proud of is that I never give up on myself. I’m always willing to learn and soak up knowledge, which really sets me apart from others.
Another thing I’m passionate about is seeing others succeed. It’s not just about me but about personal and business growth for all those around me. If we’re connected in any way, know that I sincerely want to see you succeed as well. Being a light to others and helping them become legendary is what I’m all about!
How do you define success?
Success is overcoming any obstacle that life may throw at you. We all experience life’s twist and turns. The way you react to it defines your character. Character is very essential to your personal growth. Character then builds integrity. This ultimately works cohesively together to create your successes.
Pricing:
- $150 for group step class event
- $20 per person drop-in fee step class
- $300/ weekly personal training 3-4 days a week 1-hour sessions (travel fee not included)
- $50 meal plans
Contact Info:
- Website: stayhumblelifewear.com
- Instagram: d_a_mazing_coacht
- Facebook: Tia Ray
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/tiaray2020
- Other: linktr.ee/tiaray91
Image Credits
Ashley Starks
