Tanya Merryman is arguably one of the most accomplished fitness professionals ever! For a time, she was a household industry name. She hosted the popular TV show American Muscle on ESPN at a time when fitness competitions and bodybuilding were exploding in popularity. She graced multiple magazine covers and competed in and won the most prestigious competitions of her time, becoming the first Mom to ever the Fitness America National Championships at age 25. In her 30's she tackled the biggest organization in physique sports and earned her pro status with them as well. Her following was borderline fanatic and she was the heartthrob of the industry. Her on-the-stage and in front of the camera persona of always looking glamorous and beautiful were how many perceived her. But that didn't begin to tell her story.
Tanya Merryman didn't just fall out of the sky and land in the middle of a photo shoot. Her path to success has never been easy, despite the assumptions. She is one of the most driven individuals you will ever meet. Her drive didn't begin with her success, it led to it. As a youth, Tanya struggled with her weight and also struggled with her self-esteem and acceptance. Those struggles pushed her to improve herself. They also gave her a unique understanding of what other people go through, and how important pursuing fitness goals can be for helping to balance out and even maximize one's life. Beyond her success on stage and in front of the camera, her challenges pushed her into helping others.