Strength coaching for the body you actually have.
1:1 coaching for adults with spinal fusions, surgical histories, and complex bodies — from a trainer who has lived it. I've had a T3–L4 spinal fusion since 2012. I'm not going to tell you to just be careful.
I know what it's like to be scared of your own body.
In 2012, I had a T3–L4 spinal fusion. For years after, I lived in a body that felt fragile — surrounded by well-meaning advice that mostly amounted to "don't push it." Physical therapists, doctors, trainers who had never worked with anyone like me and weren't quite sure what to do.
I had to figure out a lot of it myself. How to build strength without fear. How to trust my body again. How to train in a way that didn't just account for the hardware in my spine but actually worked with it.
Now I help other people skip that part. If you have a fusion, a surgical history, or a body that doesn't fit the standard training template — I can actually help. Not just with modifications, but with a real program designed for how you're built.
"I'm not here to protect you from your body. I'm here to help you trust it."
What working together looks like.
Every client is different. Every program is built from scratch.
History intake + medical review
We go deep on your surgical history, imaging, restrictions, and what's worked or hasn't in the past. I read your operative reports if you have them.
Movement assessment
We find what's strong, what's compensating, and where the real gaps are — without any guessing or generic templates.
Custom programming
A progressive strength program built around your spine, your goals, and your life. Adjusted every week based on how you're actually feeling.
Ongoing coaching + check-ins
We train together in-person or virtually. Between sessions you have direct access to me — no waiting until next week to ask a question.
You might be a good fit if:
- You've had a spinal fusion or spinal surgery
- You've been cleared to exercise but don't know where to start
- Previous trainers have been unwilling or unable to work with your history
- You want to build real strength, not just "gentle movement"
- You're ready to stop letting fear run your training
Start here if you're not ready for 1:1.
The Spinal Fusion Strength Blueprint is the guide I wish I'd had.
The Spinal Fusion Strength Blueprint
A practical, evidence-informed guide to building strength after spinal fusion — written by someone who has been through it. Covers foundational movement principles, what to avoid and why, how to progress safely, and how to talk to your medical team about returning to training.
Instant PDF download · $25
Get the Blueprint — $25General training & Pilates.
My post-fusion specialty is what I'm known for, but I work with a full range of clients.
1:1 strength coaching
NASM-certified programming for strength, body composition, and athletic performance. For clients without surgical histories who want evidence-based coaching and real accountability.
Low-impact, high-demand
I'm a certified Pilates and Lagree instructor. These methods are particularly well-suited for clients rebuilding after injury or surgery, and for anyone who wants deep core strength without high-impact loading.
Work with me from anywhere
All services are available virtually. Post-fusion coaching, in particular, often works exceptionally well remotely — I can program for your home setup or gym.
Common questions.
I always encourage clients to keep their medical team in the loop, especially if you're early post-op or have had any recent changes to your spine. I'm happy to work alongside your surgeon or physical therapist — the more context I have about your history, the better I can program for you.
No. I work with clients at every stage post-fusion — from recently cleared to many years out. The timeline matters less than where you are right now. We'll assess your current baseline and build from there.
Yes. My personal experience is with a T3–L4 fusion, but I've worked with clients with cervical, thoracic, and lumbar fusions at various levels. Every case is different; I'll be honest with you if I'm out of my depth or if your situation requires different expertise.
Rates vary based on session frequency and program scope. I keep my client roster intentionally small so I can give full attention to each person. Reach out through the contact form and I'll share current availability and pricing.
Yes — I offer both in-person sessions in Chicago and fully remote coaching. Many post-fusion clients work with me virtually and we make it work extremely well. Let me know your preference and we'll figure out what fits.
You don't have to figure this out alone.
Reach out and tell me about your history. I'll be honest about whether we're a good fit and what working together would look like.
Apply for 1:1 Coaching