We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Anne Brendle. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Anne below.
Anne, appreciate you joining us today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?
Nearly three years ago I woke up in a hospital bed, recovering from my second brain surgery in three weeks, My overwhelming emotion was a deep sense of gratitude – not just for the excellent medical care I received, but for the strength and resilience I had cultivated long before that moment. I knew I would not only recover but that I had the capacity to come back stronger than ever.
For over 25 years, I have worked as a Pilates instructor, training clients in a one on one setting, working with individuals with conditions that range from Parkinson’s and Cerebral Palsy to chronic orthopedic issues. In 2013, I returned to grad school earning my master’s degree in Nutrition & Integrative Health.
After my own medical experiences, I had a renewed sense of purpose to support my clients in navigating their health journeys and so I became a Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach.
Six weeks after my second surgery, once my PICC line was removed, I was back to swinging my 53-pound kettlebell. This is, in essence, what I wish for all my clients. While not everyone will swing a heavy bell, there is some benchmark of fortitude that they can achieve, and my job is to support and guide them along their way.
As I tell my clients, if you are a human in a body, you will not go through this life unscathed. Whether on large or small scales, there will be something that challenges all of us. My purpose as a coach and nutritionist is to support each client in finding their own unique path to lasting health.
Anne, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I began my career as a Pilates instructor in New York City in 2000 and added Kettlebells to my practice a few years after that. I trained clients one on one and in small groups and after a few years became a Teacher Trainer, travelling the U.S. presenting certifications and workshops and mentoring apprentice teachers. After several years, once I had moved to Atlanta I pursued my Master’s Degree in Nutrition & Integrative Health so that I could help guide clients on an additional level by focusing on their metabolic health. Now as a Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach I combine these backgrounds into personalized guidance that looks at the many factors of health and wellness.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
My entire practice is built on referrals. I have had many clients send their friends and family members to me, and I have strong collaborative relationships with several Physical Therapists and we work closely together to coordinate client care.
Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?
When I started out practicing in my 20’s I felt the need to have all the answers. If I encountered a challenging situation or something unknown I felt that it was a poor reflection on me and showed my lack of competency. As I have gotten older I have realized that the best practitioners are not afraid to say “I don’t know” and they seek out the information and learn alongside their clients. Having other professionals across multiple fields to collaborate with has been invaluable in helping me more effectively serve my clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.humanbeinghealthy.health
- Instagram: @humanbeinghealthy
