Who am I?

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Susan Ottey

Masters of Art in Education in Instructional Technology - Virginia Tech

Bachelors of Science in Athletic Training- Boston University

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist

Certified Athletic Trainer

Virginia Board of Medicine Licensed Athletic Trainer

Former Division I Track and Field Athlete

Powerlifter

Mom

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I found my passion for fitness growing up as an athlete. Once I learned what an athletic trainer was, I absolutely knew that was what I wanted to do with my life. As every Division I athlete experiences at some point in their career, I battled with overuse injuries. My experiences as an athlete and athletic training student helped me to understand the kind of clinician I did not want to be. I would be the one who went above and beyond for my athletes and patients. They would know that I cared and would put my best effort into helping them achieve their goals. Through my own struggles and learning in clinical rotations, I discovered the connection between performance enhancement and sports medicine. I completed several strength and conditioning internships in addition to the sports medicine rotations and I worked with a variety of athletes ranging from the professional level, to collegiate and even elementary school kids. Through my experiences I gained a great deal of knowledge about the field but also about where my heart lies. After completing my master’s degree at Virginia Tech, where I was the athletic trainer for the varsity track and field and cross country teams, I knew the next step I needed to take. I love helping people of all fitness levels become a better version of themselves every day. Whether that person is overcoming injury, working towards a performance goal, or simply trying to feel better, I want to be the one to help them. I started Better Bodies because I want a career where I am in the position to make someone's life better every day.            

 

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Why did I create Better Bodies?

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Simply because I’ve realized my potential to help others. Through my experiences in sports medicine I have come to realize that there is no greater feeling than watching your athlete/client/patient succeed at their chosen goals and knowing you played a part in that. I love the impact I can have on the youth by teaching them instead of reprimanding them for their health choices. I’m tired of seeing the Bikini Body and Booty challenges created by mediocre personal trainers who use the insecurities of young women for personal profit. My mission is to help those who are ready to become a better version of THEMSELVES. Anyone can wear a bikini and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Why would you only train glutes on leg day? Imbalances lead to injuries. Let’s stop encouraging comparison to others and instead know our own self-worth and know that every day we can be a little better if we let our health become a priority. Because Better Bodies make time, not excuses.

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What do I do?

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My passion is for helping others achieve their physical goals. I specialize in post injury training and clients who are currently experiencing pain but cleared by a physician for activity. As a power athlete myself, I also love training those looking to increase power, strength and speed. But overall, I just enjoy helping anyone looking to become a better version of themselves.

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I offer one on one personal training for those who are looking to achieve specific results and prefer full attention, but the majority of my time is devoted to small group training. For those of you who already have a base and prefer to train alone, I offer individualized, online training plans based on your specified level of activity and goals. All training options include nutrition education and meal plans.

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I really started this company because I wanted to find a way to give back to the community. There has been a huge push for health and fitness over the past several years as we realize the connections between unhealthy lifestyle choices and prevalence of disease in a lifetime. With this awareness has also come a wave of popularity for strength training including bodybuilding, powerlifting and cross fit. When you’re just beginning your fitness journey it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what activities best fit your lifestyle and personality. And with the increasing popularity of social media use for this industry, you can be overwhelmed by the amount of contradictory information thrown at you. I have seen friends and family members struggle with their journey and many times they turn to me for advice. I want to offer my services to the community in hopes that I can help others get started on their journey to become a better version of themselves. My goal is that each person who comes in to Better Bodies, finishes their program with the education and lifestyle habits to continue on achieving their long term goals on their own. I don't want to be your crutch. I want to uplift you and push you to become the best version of YOU. We want to create a such an amazing experience that you don't want to leave, but will have the tools to carry on if you choose to do so on your own.

 

 

Tyrel Wilson

Former Division I Football Player

DE for VA Tech 2009-2014

Hokie FB Strenght Award

VA Licensed Real Estate Agent

Head men's trainer for Better Bodies 757

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Tyrel, a native of Hampton, VA, was a stand out athlete from his youth. From baseball to football and rugby, he found success in any sport he dedicated to. Tyrel earned his bachelors degree in sociology while continuing his athletic career as a Defensive End at Virginia Tech. Upon graduating, he earned his real estate license and moved back home to Hampton. He is an assistant coach for the Hampton Heat Rugby program where he specializes in strength, speed and agility training. As a lifelong athlete, Tyrel has a innate understanding of human movement. He helps transition young athletes to an elite level. His strength and power  training background make him a perfect addition to the Better Bodies team as a the head men's trainer. He leads the Midnight Mayhem classes 3 times a week in addition to one on one and sports specific training.

 

 

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Desirae Mills

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Better Bodies 757 Manager

Accountability Coach

Life Coach

Navy Wife & Mom

 

Desirae was born in Germany but raised in Norfolk VA. After completing high school, she attained her pharmacy technician certification while living in Indiana and taking college courses. When her husband's military career brought them back to the 757, Desirae found her true passion for holistic health while on her own fitness journey. She and Susan have been childhood friends and connected through their workouts. When Desirae moved back, she began to find her strength when Susan introduced her to powerlifting and realized the love she had for showing others how to find their strength as well. In addition to physical fitness, Desirae is studying mental health and wellness and plans to use her own journey to help motivate others. She keeps everyone's mental health in order and is always there for our clients to vent to. Better Bodies is lucky to have such a powerful woman on staff as both a manager and personal training intern.

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