Zane Mende, fitness model, personal trainer, and coach, chatted with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos about her latest endeavors.
What inspires you each day as a personal trainer, fitness model and coach?
My own journey of self-growth and self-compassion. I’ve learned a lot from my experiences, and that fuels my passion to help others overcome their own challenges and feel empowered.
I never imagined how amazing it would feel that my toughest battles now inspire so many others. And I love the sense of community it had brought me.
How does it feel to be a part of the digital age? (Now with streaming, technology and social media being so prevalent)
It feels exciting. I’m grateful for how easy it is to educate myself, improve my craft, and create opportunities. The digital age levels the playing field. if you’re willing to show up, learn, and be consistent, you can build a life you’re proud of. you can express yourself creatively in ways that weren’t possible before. You can build a brand, share your story, and reach people easier than ever before.
What do your plans for the future include?
My plans for the future include building my fitness brand, growing my presence online, and creating content that genuinely helps people feel stronger, more confident, and more connected to themselves.
I want to keep coaching, modeling, and eventually build bigger opportunities and partner with some of my favorite brands. Just continuing to step out of my comfort zone and push myself to be better each day.
Were there any moments in your life or career that have helped define you?
My biggest defining moment was going through my back surgery and the surgeries on both of my legs. I wasn’t dealt the best cards, but I realized that what truly matters is what you make of your situation. Those experiences showed me that I’m so much stronger than I ever thought.
They taught me that you really can overcome anything when you’re determined and you refuse to give up on yourself. Sharing myself online was also a defining moment.
I used to be scared to post or put myself out there, and now I’m building a brand by staying consistent, showing my real personality, and trusting that my energy resonates. Its a bit scary but I have challanged myself to not be so scared of failure and do more of the uncomfortable. Because real growth comes in discomfort.
How do you use technology in your daily routine?
Technology has become a huge part of my day-to-day routine. I track and log all of my metrics daily (I don’t think Ive missed a day in two years), and it’s something I’ve become really passionate about. I love seeing the data, how my sleep, recovery, training, and stress all connect. But it’s not just about logging everything into WHOOP.
I use technology to optimize my training, stay consistent, hold myself accountable, and make better decisions for my health and fitness. I also use it to create content, connect with my community. It allows me to share my journey in real time and inspire others to stay committed to their goals.
What is your advice for young and aspiring fitness professionals, models and coaches?
My advice is to stay consistent, stay authentic, and focus on being better each day. Don’t compare yourself to others, your journey is unique, and so is your timeline.
Learn to track your progress, and put in the work, even when it’s hard. Build real connections and support systems as well as good habits. And here’s the mindset I live by: if you put your head down and commit fully, a year from now your goals will be reality. Work for it every day, and it’s guaranteed, you just have to show up even if its the bare minimum, something is better than nothing.
What does the word success mean to you? (my favorite question)
Success, to me, is living a life that aligns with who I truly am. I recently read this Japanese book called Ikigai, and it really stuck with me. it’s about finding the intersection of what you’re good at, what you love, and what the world needs.
To me, success is showing up consistently, growing every day, and using my strengths to make a positive impact. When I can do that, that’s success.
What’s it like working with the one and only photographer Joshua Shultz?
Josh is such a cool human, humble and caring as well as talented a true inspiration. I cant wait to create beautiful art and work on another project with him.
What would you like to say to your fans and supporters?
To my fans and supporters, I just want to say thank you. Your energy, encouragement, and support mean more than I can put into words.
Every comment, every like, every time you show up. it motivates me to keep pushing, keep creating, and keep growing. I want you to know that I see you, I appreciate you, and I hope my journey inspires you to chase your own goals, trust your process, and believe in yourself.
To learn more about Zane Mende, follow her on Instagram.
