Nicole Nichols

Qualifications: I have a bachelor's degree in health promotion and education, specializing in exercise and fitness, from the University of Cincinnati, where I was the youngest graduate to ever receive their "Distinguished Alumni" honor (2011). Certifications: ACE (American Council on Exercise) Personal Training, AFAA (Aerobics & Fitness Association of America) Group Fitness Instructor, Spinning, PiYo, Prenatal and Postpartum Exercise Design, and Balanced Body mat and reformer Pilates instructor

Personal History: I gained roughly 40 pounds in college when I was an architecture major and hated being too busy to take care of myself, especially as a former athlete who had always been fit and active. I wanted to change my life and do something to help people, so I switched majors after 3 years in my design program. I have never looked back. I loved my college program and learned so much about helping and motivating others. SparkPeople discovered me while I was still in college, a budding health/fitness writer for the school paper. As I made health and fitness a priority again in my own life, I slowly lost the weight over several years in a healthy and sustainable way, and that is what I try to help others do, too. I’ve been able to touch the lives of millions of people via my blogs, articles, videos, DVDs, speaking appearances and social media accounts. It’s truly inspiring and I love what I do every day!

Workout Philosophy: Exercise isn’t a means to an end; it’s a tool for living your best life. It should be a habit like brushing your teeth each day—something you just do without excuses. That’s what I try to help people attain: realistic exercise programs that fit into their lifestyles and still produce results. It’s not about killing yourself. It’s about feeling great. I try to be encouraging and supportive and provide modifications and options for every fitness level so that everyone who follows my workouts can feel successful.