Our Trainers

Denise is a certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and mat Pilates instructor. She's also the founder of Yellow Optimist Fitness, her personal fitness business. Originally from Atlanta, Denise moved to Tennessee shortly before graduating high school and has lived in each region of the state. Her approach to fitness is one that recognizes the transformative power of living a healthy and active lifestyle. Ask her why she works out and her answer will be "to build and maintain mental, emotional, and physical strength." Denise is driven by the opportunity to help you be the best you possible. She's excited to share her passion for fitness with the New Start Fitness family! 

 My love for physical activity has been life long. I played multiple sports growing up, and as a collegiate volleyball player at Tennessee, I developed a passion for strength and conditioning. I first received my personal training certification after graduating in 2000. Since that time, I've worked as a personal trainer, taught group fitness classes, and coached volleyball at various levels. I enjoy the energy and shared motivation that thrives in a group fitness/team training atmosphere. I have two young daughters and a supportive husband who remind me every day why I want to lead an active lifestyle and have fun at the same time. Whether you're seeking intense training or just getting started, I look forward to being a part of your journey by helping you focus on body mechanics, make modifications when necessary, and take your fitness to a new level! 

 I have been physically active a majority of my life. I got started in athletics young and played sports through my youth.   In 2021 I trained and raced in my first Olympic distant triathlon in Chicago!  I enjoy swimming, running, cycling, hiking, lifting, and yoga! I earned my Personal training certification in 2019 and a nutrition coach certification in 2022. My enthusiasm to coach others in fitness and nutrition led me to start Champion Inc. Fitness and Nutrition which  launched in October of 2023.  I believe that our health and wellness has a huge impact in our daily life and I enjoy coaching others on their journey to a new lifestyle! 

My name is Mikayla, I am a passionate trainer dedicated to empowering people through fitness and wellness. With my strenuous background in exercise science, I focus on efficient and sustainable movement. My mission is to inspire clients to have fun with fitness and achieve personal goals. My classes are inclusive and supportive where people of all fitness levels can thrive. I take a holistic approach to fitness that encompasses physical strength and mental/emotional well-being. I'm committed to helping clients unlock their full potential!