Sports have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up playing soccer and softball and attended East Carolina University on a softball scholarship. 

Before enrolling at ECU, however, I attended the U.S. Naval Academy, where I powered through the famous "Plebe Summer,” when new students (called “plebeians”) suffer through some of the most physically and mentally demanding tests and challenges. 

That experience not only taught me how to push through fear to accomplish any goal, but it also instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of physical fitness. 

Since then, I've completed triathlons, marathons, and all manner of races; always something to feed my need for movement, competition, and a healthy lifestyle.

But, life has gotten busy in the last few years, between running a thriving business, shooting a TV show, and juggling the demands of balancing my personal and professional lives. Staying in shape doesn't always fit into my hectic schedule, but it's always a top priority. 

So, to stay motivated when life gets crazy, I've had to get creative with how I get my healthy on. 

Here are some of my favorite ways to keep my physical well-being on track during the summer (and all year long), even when life seems bent on holding me back.