about misty

head shot of Misty in green shirt

Welcome to my page! You’re here because I’m a NASM CPT and CNC with 10 years of experience in the health and wellness industry. My passion is helping people feel better—physically, mentally, and emotionally—and I’m so excited you’re here!

Whether we've known each other for years, you’ve been following my journey for a while, or you just happened to stumble upon this page, I’m glad you took the time to stop by. Either way, this is the place I share a little about myself in case you want to hang out for a minute.

MY CREDENTIALS

I’m proud to hold my personal training certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), which is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). NASM is recognized as the gold standard in fitness certifications, offering evidence-based programs that are trusted across the industry for personal training, nutrition coaching, wellness, sports performance, and more. 

My Certifications and Specializations:

  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer

  • NASM Corrective Exercise Specialization

  • NASM Certified Nutrition Coach

  • NASM Senior Fitness Specialization

  • NASM Fitness Nutrition Specialization

  • AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor (expired)

In addition to my fitness certifications, I also hold an undergraduate and master’s degree in business (with a 4.0 GPA), though I’m pretty sure that’s not why you’re here. :)

Misty Gigliotti in fitness attire with a yoga mural behind her

THE ATHLETE IN ME

I grew up playing basketball, both in high school and college, where I learned firsthand what it means to push beyond my limits. As an athlete, I discovered that I’m capable of more than I think—often surpassing my self-imposed boundaries. In moments when things get tough—whether it’s during a run, a race, or just life in general—I remind myself of this.

There were countless practices where I gave everything I had... or so I thought. But time and again, I had to dig just a little bit deeper. This experience of pushing past perceived limits is invaluable in my training, coaching, and motivating others.

“You are stronger than you realize. You are more capable than you can imagine.” -Dieter F Uchtdorf

WHAT DRIVES ME

In 2003, I was in a serious car accident that nearly cost me my left foot, along with several other injuries. Over the years, I've had nine foot surgeries, including a fusion, and still deal with pain. But rather than holding me back, this experience has actually fueled my fire.

Since then, I’ve become a runner—completing a 50K, a marathon, multiple 25Ks, and many half marathons. I’ve earned certifications as a personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and HIIT instructor, and I even ran my own fitness studio for four years. I'm still training clients and pushing myself every day.

Through it all, I’ve learned to push past the limits others set for me—and to help others do the same. I’m passionate about inspiring people to achieve what they didn’t think was possible. I’m known for my motto, “You Got This!

Misty and Paul Gigliotti at Runningman 2023 in Rome, GA.

FRIENDS & FAMILY

I’m incredibly fortunate to share my life with my amazing husband, Paul G. He’s truly one of a kind, and together, we’ve built a life filled with love and adventure. In the beginning, I didn’t think I was worthy of being loved, so I wasn’t always the easiest person to be with. But here we are, truly happy, and we feel like we were made for each other.

We share our home with two of the sweetest dogs—Molly, who’s almost 17, and Rivy, who’s 3—and a cat named Dog (yes, we really named our cat Dog). Life is definitely never boring with our little family!

Paul runs his own businesses—GIG Graphics, a screen printing and embroidery company, and Pirate Perry Events, a race management business. He lets me be part of some of the fun stuff and handle his social media.

Paul is not just an amazing husband, but also a fantastic dad to his two wonderful daughters. He’s an avid trail runner, a big eater, a creative thinker, a storyteller, an outdoor adventurer, and the one person who always makes me feel safe.

I’m blessed with a wonderful mom, dad, brother, and niece. On my dad’s side, I come from a large family—over 100 cousins, thanks to my Catholic grandparents! Both sides of my family are full of love, grace, and support.

I also have a group of best friends who love to stay active with me—whether we’re running, hiking, biking, or just enjoying a workout together. Each of them holds a special place in my heart.

All of these incredible people make up my amazing "circle," the people who inspire, support, and motivate me every day.


Beth, Kelly, and Misty at Mammoth March in St. Louis in 2024.

LIVING WITH A MENTAL ILLNESS

I live with bipolar disorder and panic disorder, which I manage through a combination of medications, fitness, nutrition, my fur babies, plenty of laughter, and an incredible support system. My struggles began in high school, and I’ve spent time in several hospitals throughout my journey. I’ve shared my story publicly, from social media to magazine articles, and have spoken to many groups about mental health.

While my life hasn’t always been easy, I’ve always made a point to show kindness—even when behind a fake smile. Today, I can say that my smile is real. I’m proud to advocate for mental health and to help end the stigma surrounding it.

#EndTheStigma

If you’d like to learn more about my journey or need someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

800-273-TALK (8255) National Hotline for Mental Health Crises and Suicide Prevention

Exercise not only changes your body. it changes your mind, your attitude, and your mood.