Hi, I’m Melissa—veteran, lung cancer survivor, and founder of Making Strydz in Castle Rock, CO. My journey into fitness began in 2005, but it took on deeper meaning after a life-altering diagnosis in 2019. Following nearly a year of tests, doctors discovered a tumor in my lung and airway. In 2021, I underwent a major surgery that resulted in the removal of my right lung—and gave me a new lease on life.

That experience reshaped everything. It’s why I’m so passionate about helping others build strength, resilience, and confidence—no matter where they’re starting from or what life has thrown their way.

As a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, I specialize in designing personalized programs that meet you where you are. I work with clients of all ages and backgrounds—people who are ready to move with purpose, improve their health, and feel stronger from the inside out. My sessions are encouraging, adaptable, and focused on sustainable progress.

If you're looking for a coach who truly understands the ups and downs of life and is committed to helping you succeed every step of the way—I’d love to work with you. Let’s make strydz—together.

My favorite client story

I’ve had the honor of working with so many inspiring clients—each with a unique story, set of goals, and reason for showing up. What motivates me most is watching those quiet but powerful shifts happen: strength replacing self-doubt, energy returning, confidence building week after week.

One of my favorite stories comes from a client who was unsure she could ever feel strong again. Over time, through personalized training and consistent support, she not only improved physically—gaining flexibility, strength, and better posture—but also mentally. She told me:

"Melissa has helped me make real progress, physically and emotionally. Her workouts are tailored to my needs, and she always knows how to challenge me without overwhelming me. I feel stronger, more confident, and more in tune with my body than I have in years."

Another shared:

"Melissa is professional, compassionate, and incredibly thorough. Her approach has helped me feel better, look better, and move better—and that’s just the beginning."

These transformations are what drive me. Being part of someone's journey to reclaim their health and confidence is the greatest reward of this work.

My favorite exercise

While it’s tough to choose just one favorite, I’m drawn to workouts that challenge both the body and the mind—those that blend strength, stability, and stamina all in one session. I love movements that build resilience and leave you feeling strong, capable, and energized.

One of my go-to training combos includes:

Dumbbell Bicep Curls – For sculpting the arms and building upper body strength
Dead Bug – A core stability favorite that reinforces control and coordination
Dumbbell Incline Bench Press – To develop power and endurance in the chest and shoulders
2-Mile Interval Run (Treadmill or Outside) – For boosting cardiovascular fitness and mental grit

This kind of workout reflects my favorite approach: purposeful movement that supports real-life strength, builds confidence, and keeps things dynamic. Whether we’re lifting, stabilizing, or sprinting, it’s all about making strydz toward your strongest self.

My favorite quote

I’m a big believer in the power of words to inspire action. These quotes serve as daily reminders of what matters most—health, consistency, and showing up for yourself, even when it’s hard:

“It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.” – Mahatma Gandhi
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohn
“The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary.” – Vidal Sassoon
“It’s not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives, but what we do consistently.” – Tony Robbins
“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.” – Pelé

Each of these speaks to what I value as a coach: commitment, effort, and a deep respect for the body you’re living in. My goal is to help every client turn these ideas into lived experience—one stryd at a time.

My training philosophy

I believe that strength looks different on everyone—and that every person deserves to feel strong, confident, and in control of their health. Fitness isn’t about perfection or quick fixes. It’s about progress, mindset, and building a lifestyle that supports your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

My approach is deeply personalized and rooted in compassion. I meet each client exactly where they are—whether they’re starting from scratch, returning from injury or illness, or pushing toward a new performance goal. Together, we create realistic, adaptable plans that work with your life—not against it.

I view fitness as one piece of a larger picture. Movement, nutrition, stress management, and recovery all play a role in long-term success. It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing what works for you in a way that feels sustainable and empowering.

At the core of my philosophy is this: your journey is your own, and it matters. I’m here to guide, challenge, and celebrate with you—because every stryd you take is one step closer to becoming your strongest, most resilient self.

My training experience

As a certified personal trainer, nutrition coach, and ProNatal Fitness Specialist, I bring a comprehensive and compassionate approach to every client I work with. I’ve been passionate about health and fitness since 2005, and my personal journey—including recovering from lung cancer and the removal of my right lung—has given me a deep appreciation for what it takes to rebuild strength, confidence, and vitality.

I’ve trained clients across all walks of life: from those just beginning their fitness journey to midlife adults, military veterans, and cancer survivors reclaiming their health. I also specialize in pre- and postnatal fitness, helping women navigate pregnancy and postpartum with strength, safety, and support—backed by my specialization through ProNatal Fitness.

Whether you're training for life, recovery, or performance, I design programs that are highly personalized, sustainable, and grounded in smart, functional movement. My coaching style is structured but supportive—focused on helping you move well, feel strong, and stay consistent.