By now, you’ve probably read many of Dr. Emily’s “Fit Tips” here on the blog, but you may still be wondering who she is and what exactly she does at Lucille Roberts. So, we asked her!
How long have you worked at Lucille Roberts? Tell us a little about your job here.
I’ve been with Lucille Roberts for a year and a half. I’m the Fitness Director, which means I’m responsible for overseeing the education programs, new classes, and program development for Lucille Roberts.
Have you always been active? Did you play sports growing up?
Since a very young age, sports and exercise have always been a major part of my life. Growing up, I did competitive gymnastics, which pretty much consumed my days but become a major part of my identity. Now exercise and fitness are not only my passion but also my career!
Why did you decide to specialize in podiatry?
I chose to specialize in Podiatric Medicine because it was closely related to sports and athletics. Since I have such a passion for fitness, I knew that I needed a medical specialty that would allow me to still pursue and even integrate exercise into my medical practice. Now, when I treat patients, I always look at how exercise can be integrated into their treatment programs; this type of medical specialty is called functional medicine.
How does your work in fitness connect to your practice as a doctor?
As much as my fitness background allows me to approach my patients differently, my medical background allows me to approach the fitness industry differently. Another passion of mine is being an educator. Through my fitness education workshops at Lucille Roberts to the barefoot classes I teach, I’m able to bring a unique medical and “foot-focused” approach to the fitness industry.
Please tell us a bit about your Catwalk Confidence projects.
Catwalk Confidence is a workout program I created 3 years ago during my last year of medical school. Catwalk Confidence is a barefoot balance training workout that uniquely targets the postural muscles of the foot, hip, core, and upper back. It’s often marketed to women who wear high heels, as this type of shoe gear stresses a woman’s posture. However, regardless of our shoe gear, all women can benefit from the workout, as it tones and defines the hips and abs like no other workout!
Your new book, Everyday Is Your Runway, is available on Amazon now, correct? What can readers expect to learn from it?
Yes! My book is available on my website. I consider Everyday Is Your Runway to be a woman’s quickie guide to fabulousness. It’s a fun, practical guide to everything a woman needs to know to keep her feet and legs healthy, strong, and fierce! Feet are not always considered the sexiest part of the body, but they are critical to our everyday movements. Through my book, I am trying to make the idea of foot health fun!
Your resume includes an appearance on Oprah. What did you discuss on her show, and what was that experience like?
I was on Oprah back in early 2010 on behalf of my Catwalk Confidence program. Oprah was doing a shoe-makeover show in which I came on to discuss women’s posture in high heels and how to walk in stilettos. It was a fun segment!
What’s your favorite class to teach at Lucille Roberts? And when can members take a class from you next?
I’m a pilates-fanatic! When I teach specialty classes at Lucille Roberts, I typically do core-focused classes. Unfortunately, I don’t have a regular class, just occasional surprise appearances–so members will have to check out the blog and Facebook for updates!
What’s your usual workout routine?
My schedule is getting pretty hectic these days, so I need to make sure my workouts are as efficient as possible. I try to get to the gym 3 times a week and typically focus on weights–especially for my legs!
Many women struggle with insecurities about their bodies—even women who aren’t overweight. Can you relate to this? And what advice can you give regarding body confidence?
I think a lot of women have insecurities about their bodies. I struggled with anorexia when I was in college and would not wish that negative obsession with body image on anyone. Eventually, I realized that a strong, fit body through exercise was a more positive body image and that true perfection does not exist. As women face the pressures of society, I think it’s important to remember that confidence must first come from inside of us and that exercise should be used to make us feel strong, sexy, and healthy!
Dr. Emily on the Today Show
