HEALTH

AND

WELLNESS

My name is Jeffrey Harris, Ph.D and I am a Certified Personal Trainer, and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. My fitness journey began in 2000. In fact, I still remember the first day I stepped foot into a gym. It was during my first semester as an undergraduate student at the University of Central Florida. It was 5 PM and the gym was packed with people who seemed more experienced than I was. Admittedly, I was extremely nervous, however, I decided to try my hand at bench pressing the 45-pound barbell without any weights on the bar. Unfortunately, the 45-pound barbell quickly fell onto my chest. People began laughing at me because I was unable to lift the bar off of my chest. Afterward, I walked out of the gym with my head down, called my brother, and told him I was never stepping foot into another gym again. My brother then offered me these wise words, which still resonate with me today: "never let anyone prevent you from reaching your goal, tell you who you are or what you are capable of accomplishing." With those encouraging words,

I built up the courage to step back into a gym in 2002.

Ultimately, I decided to challenge myself every day at 5 am by walking into the very same gym I experienced that shame and embarrassment in. What first appeared to be a negative life-altering experience ultimately turned out to be the most empowering and meaningful one of my life. Over time, I learned how to construct my own diet, and fitness programs to change my body based on the goals I had for myself. In 2012, I decided to compete in my first NPC fitness competition where I came in 2nd place. Working out has not only taught me how to become more disciplined, but it has helped me become more conscious of my overall health. I learned that a healthy body supports a healthy mind. It is my form of self-care and therapy. I utilized the many lessons I learned from working out and applied them to achieve many of my personal and professional goals. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Personal Trainer, I take a whole health approach essentially helping clients tune into the mind and body connection. This approach has been proven by research to improve a person's quality of life by assisting clients with developing healthier ways of managing depression, anxiety, and stress. I want to share my knowledge and help you achieve your health and fitness goals. As your coach on this journey, I am here to encourage you and help you every step of the way. I look forward to working with you.

My goal is to provide professional guidance that allows you to reach your health and fitness goals as fast as possible. Whether you are a busy professional or have a limited amount of time I customize my fitness plans around your schedule so you see results. I take the guesswork out of how to reach your health and fitness goals by providing you with 1 on 1 weekly coaching sessions, individualized training regimens, nutritional guidance, and supplement advice. If you are truly ready to see results, please take the time to fill out the questionnaire so we can get started. I look forward to helping you reach your fitness goals!