#FitGirlMagic: Rickeya Burts
“When asked to describe herself and her brand in 3 words, Rickeya Burts says she is confident, multi-faceted, and radiant. We can’t think of a better way to describe her. Her personality and smile truly radiates from her online presence and captures your attention. Rickeya recently made the move from Memphis, TN to Atlanta in order to more boldly pursue her goals as a fitness professional. Her thoughts on managing change and finding happiness shows why she is #FitGirlMagic.”
When and how did you fall in love with the industry?
I’ve been an athlete since the age of 8. Growing up playing basketball and volleyball has always kept me in shape. The older I got, I realized that all of that exercise and running was GREAT for my body and I didn’t want to lose it. So as I had more free time in college fitness became really important to me to avoid the “Freshmen 15”. As time went on, I realized that’s what people look to me for or see me as and I saw that I can really help people and it all stuck. I started getting into training/instructing multiple things, and it just became who I am and what I love.
What motivates you most to live a healthy lifestyle?
I want to lead by example and truly motivate others. When I see other people’s results and lifestyle changes they’ve made, it keeps me going to stay active and do better.
What mission do you promote for women in fitness?
To increase the power of self-confidence and love by making mindset altering changes to truly be fit.
What is your favorite workout?
Kickboxing (best cardio EVERRRRR)
What piece of fitness advice do you find yourself repeating to your clients?
Eating less does not make you lose weight! In fact, it will make you gain weight! Your body will go into survival mode and store whatever it is in there to fill you up for the day.
When you are not picking up weights, you are...?
I'm straight chilling (binge-watching shows and movies, taking a nap, or playing volleyball
Why is it important to have diversity in the fitness industry?
No one person is the same. You need different fitness professionals to connect and relate to different people. It's also important to show and prove that women are physically powerful beings. It’s not just a man’s world in the fitness industry.
You just made a big move from Memphis to ATL to pursue even bigger fitness dreams. What advice would you give to someone else looking to make a move or go after their dreams?
If you currently feel stuck, like you’re just going through the motions, or feel like you aren’t maximizing yourself to reach your full potential, then GET OUT OF YOUR OWN HEAD and actually take steps in the direction that you are wanting to go. You will never know if that business, relationship, or whatever it may be will work out if you don’t go for it. You’ll gain some sense of happiness just by taking the chance and if it doesn’t work out, SO WHAT! You know what you’re going for and how you want to feel, but you can't get those things and grow if you are still doing the things that got you feeling stuck in the first place. No more complaining, if you aren’t willing and open to change.