Christa Doran
I’m not superwoman, although I like to think I am sometimes. I love chocolate, I love to sweat, and I think being a mom is the hardest, most rewarding job ever. So how did I get here? It was in the living room of my family’s apartment where I followed along to my first workout video. Right then and there I knew I wanted to be her. I wanted to be the woman on the TV, encouraging, motivating, educating. Flash forward seventeen years and today I am the owner and creator of Tuff Girl Fitness. Tuff Girl Fitness is a place where women of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels come to get an incredible, challenging, body-changing workout in a supportive and fun environment. On paper, I run fitness bootcamps and train women. But this job is so much more than that for me. I have the honor and privilege of helping women change their lives. Before my eyes they transform, body, mind and spirit. It is incredible to watch and I feel so blessed to be a part of their transformation.

I love the moment when women get it. Food and fitness come together in a beautiful fusion that leaves my clients feeling strong, powerful and in-control. I truly believe you can have the body of your dreams if you are willing to work hard and make sacrifices.

Along with my almost ten years of experience comes some nice documents I like to hang on my wall. I have a Masters Degree in Occupational Therapy and hold a personal trainer certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. I also have additional training in running bootcamps and pre-natal/post-partum exercise design. I love learning new and exciting ways to challenge my clients, so I am constantly seeking out ways to become a better, more educated, and well-rounded trainer.

I live in an old white colonial in Hamden, CT with my supportive husband Mike and my adorable daughter Livia.

"All things are difficult before they are easy." - Thomas Fuller

Mike Doran is a certified personal trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), holds a bachelors degree in Physical Education/Exercise Science from the University of RI and is certified in adult/child/infant CPR through the American Red Cross.

He is also a certified second degree black belt in Taekwondo through the World Taekwondo Federation and a Certified Head Instructor through the International World Taekwondo Federation. Mike has been working with children and teens for the past decade, helping them achieve their goals, realize their potential, and discover the benefits of fitness. Through fitness and martial arts, Mike has been witness to the literal transformation of many children into mentally strong, confident teens and young adults. This has been awe inspiring and continues to drive Mike’s work. His functional approach to fitness and unique program design create a challenging, fun environment which gets results.