Huntsville is home to so many who make health and longevity a priority in their lives. Whether through fitness, nutrition, or mental well-being, these people embrace healthy habits as a lifestyle, and are an inspiration in our community. Take a look inside the lives of some healthy Huntsville residents as we learn about their ideals surrounding fitness, their daily routines, and tips to live along, healthy life.
Matthew DeOrio- TOC and Payton (Paytee) Beddingfield- Leading Edge Realtors
What does health mean to you?
Health is having a body and mind fit enough to allow us to say “YES” to all the adventures we want to do!
How has your definition of health changed over the years?
Matt: The concept of a healthy lifestyle to keep blood pressure and cholesterol in check has transitioned to more of a focus on taking in more protein and healthy fats, and limiting carbohydrates, seeds oils, and highly processed foods.
Payton: I was more restrictive with my diet and as a young adult than I am today. I live in better balance now by prioritizing joyful living first followed by healthy living.
What are your non-negotiables every day?
We don’t have non-negotiables. Life is fluid and we feel fairly adept to adapt to the current situation.
What is your typical workout routine?
Matt: Last year it was wake up at 4:40, roll out on foam roller, stretch, run 7-10 miles, hit the shower, hot tub and cold plunge. This year I am focused on mobility and balance so that when my time to run again comes I will be ready.
Payton: This year I have been loving a new adventure of playing tennis. I play four times per week or whenever any of my friends will play with me. Last year trail running was my favorite exercise.
How do you balance physical fitness with mental strength?
Payton: Positive thoughts. I focus on having fun, the beautiful surroundings, and music. Running to a beat is similar to dancing. I may even breakout in a spin to the music.
Matt: Mental strength is what gives me the ability to find a balance in physical fitness. I’ve always believed that to achieve our goals, 1/3 is in our head, 1/3 in in our hearts and the last 1/3 is the physical ability.
Outside of your routine what other activities do you enjoy and that require physical fitness?
We met at dance lessons and continue to enjoy dancing at many events throughout the year as well as in the kitchen while we cook. We love scuba diving, camping, backpacking, and snowboarding. Honestly, there is not much that we do that does not require some degree of physical fitness.
What is your main goal as you age?
We want to avoid having to say no to things because we can’t physically do them anymore.
Joe Martin, Relentless Positivity
What does health mean to you?
Health means feeling strong, energized, and ready to live life to the fullest. It’s about taking care of my body and mind so I can show up as my best self and be there to support and protect the people I care about.
What is the first thing you do when you wake up?
Thank the Lord for giving me another day. Not everyone gets that blessing and I
am a true believer in the power of gratitude.
What are your non-negotiables every day?
At least 30 minutes of movement, staying hydrated, and finding time for rest.
What is your typical workout routine?
My weekly routine is 4-5 days strength training, at least one workout per week
with my friends at Fitness 300, daily walks, and 30 minutes of cycling.
How do you balance physical fitness with mental strength?
There are very few days I really feel like exercising, but I never miss a day.
Having the mental toughness to push on when you don’t feel like it is crucial to
success.
Outside of your routine what other activities do you enjoy that require physical fitness?
I love hiking, rucking, and playing pickleball. I work with kids so being
able to keep up with them and not be exhausted is a must.
What is your main goal as you age?
Having the freedom to do what I want without my body holding me back.
Ashleigh Heinz- Serendipity House of Style
What does health mean to you?
Health means focusing on nourishment (not calorie counting), eating a variety of colorful foods, and prioritizing daily movement. I also believe mental health plays a crucial role in overall well-being.
How has your definition of health changed over the years?
I used to believe health was all about fitting a certain physical ideal, but now I see it as being happy with yourself without worrying about society's standards.
What is the first thing you do when you wake up?
I drink matcha and spend some time on my balcony to ground myself and set my intentions for the day.
What are your non-negotiables every day?
My non-negotiables each day are meditation, listening to a growth podcast, and going for a walk.
What is your typical workout routine?
I usually start with a Pilates class at home or at The Fitzgerald, and then take a walk around downtown with my dogs.
Outside of your routine what other activities do you enjoy that require physical fitness?
I enjoy activities like hiking, dancing, and yoga, which all keep me active while adding variety and fun to life.
What is your favorite healthy meal or snack?
My favorite healthy snack is guacamole with creole seasoning and pretzel crisps, or hummus with red peppers.
What tips for you have for someone just getting started on making lifestyle changes for their health and fitness?
Start small and focus on consistency rather than perfection—whether it's adding a short walk, drinking more water, or prioritizing sleep. Gradually build healthy habits that feel sustainable.
Martin and Caroline Schreeder
What does health mean to you?
Caroline: Health is defined by nutrition, sleep, and mental health. It’s feeling vibrant and full of
energy.
Martin: Health is how energized my mind and body feel and whether I have full use and function of my body.
How has your definition of health changed over the years?
Caroline: I used to think it meant minimal eating and lots of cardio exercise. I realize now that it
means 7-8 hours of sleep, 64 ounces of water, whole foods, exercise and an optimistic
outlook.
Martin: Health has always been directly tied to performance. Over the years I have included longevity in my approach.
What is the first thing you do when you wake up?
Caroline: Exercising first thing sets the tone for the day and allows me to be more focused.
Martin: I eat eggs cooked in real butter with sausage/bacon. Then I take the kids to school when I’m not working. Black coffee to follow.
What are your non-negotiables every day?
Caroline: Exercise, cooking nutritious foods, daily supplements, and coffee.
Martin: I work out before any shift. 8 minutes high intensity minimum. Also, it is a rare exception to eat any carbs before noon.
What is your typical workout routine?
Caroline: Circuit training which involves weight training, cardio, TRX, rower, peloton bike, plyometrics and body weight exercises. It’s important to trick the body into challenging itself.
Martin: The only fixed standard I keep is 2000 meters in 8 minutes on a rower. I try to beat that every time. Stability, plyometrics, endurance, strength and game performance are all on rotation.
Outside of your routine what other activities do you enjoy that require physical fitness?
Caroline: We love being outside whether it be walking, swimming, hiking or especially going on a trip that requires a lot of activity.
Martin: ER work, farm work, coaching and playing with my kids, and soccer.
What is your main goal as you age?
Caroline: To be able to continue to function as I am now and feel good! I want to
be able to continue to challenge myself with new goals like doing a cooking show or going back to ballet.
Martin: Healthspan - not only lifespan, but how long one maintains good health into old age. I’d like to achieve a long healthspan and prevent Injury as I age.
Takara Swoopes, Huntsville Magazine```
What does health mean to you?
Health is about balance and longevity. It’s about building habits that support a life I can enjoy now and sustain in the future.
How has your definition of health changed over the years?
Before motherhood, health was about ensuring I ate at home more than eating out and hitting the gym at least four times a week. Four kids in, health is about nurturing my body and mind so that I can be my best and be here as long as possible for my babies.
How do you schedule time for self-care and exercise with four kids?
It’s a challenge, but I’ve learned that putting myself last doesn’t benefit anyone. I carve out time early in the morning—before the household wakes up—because I know once the day starts, my time isn’t my own. Waking up at 4 AM is how I prioritize self-care without taking away from my family’s needs.
What is the first thing you do when you wake up?
The first thing I do is knock out 25 pushups. Afterward, I drink a glass of water to rehydrate. It’s a small but powerful ritual to jumpstart my day with energy and focus.
What are your non-negotiables every day?
Waking up at 4 AM. It’s my time for prayer, reflection, and planning the day.
What is your typical workout routine?
I commit to 45 minutes of HIIT exercises every day. It’s efficient and keeps me strong, agile, and energized. I love how it challenges me physically and mentally in such a short period of time.
How do you balance physical fitness with mental strength?
I think of fitness as a foundation for mental resilience. When I’m consistent with movement, it helps me manage stress and approach challenges with a clearer, calmer mind.
Outside of your routine, what other activities do you enjoy that require physical fitness?
Outside of my routine, I love salsa dancing and trying out different fun fitness events happening in Huntsville. It’s a great way to stay active while having fun and connecting with the community.
What is your main goal as you age?
My main goal is maintaining proper nutrition and daily movement to prevent bone structure erosion and stay strong. I want to ensure that I’m healthy enough to keep up with my kids and one day, my grandkids!
I used to believe health was all about fitting a certain physical ideal, but now I see it as being happy with yourself physically and mentally without worrying about society's standards.