Corey Calliet learned at an early stage in life that he had to face his challenges head-on after experiencing adversity growing up in the streets of New Orleans. Learning to never quit on himself pushed him to become an actor and celebrity trainer. He is known for a number of remarkable transformations, his role on the show Revenge Body, and training A-lister Michael B. Jordan. He continues to grow in the fitness space and hopes to continue to help others along the way.
Keep reading to discover how Corey’s mind and body were transformed through fitness.
Recess: Has fitness always been an important part of your life? If not, why is it important now more than ever?
Corey Calliet (CC): I was always active by nature, but shifting into a dedicated focus on fitness really changed my life in my 20’s. I quickly came to understand the positive impact fitness had on my life – I was training my body, but transforming my mind. I recognized the power of fitness, and have been tapped in ever since.
Recess: What does your week-to-week workout routine look like?
CC: My life revolves around me being on the top of my game mentally and physically, so I like to set myself up for success by building momentum through my workouts. This means Mondays typically start out with a challenging new routine to set the tone, throughout the week I focus on detailed workouts (making specific improvements I’ve identified for my physical performance), Saturdays are for something out of the box! I really like to have fun with my fitness on the weekends. And, Sundays are for active recovery – which typically entails a form of cardio and mobility exercises followed by some good R&R (rest & recovery).
Recess: What are some of the daily routines and movements that support your mental health?
CC: Reflection and projection during my morning cardio is a must! Reflection in that I am assessing things that have been going well, and identifying areas that need improvement. Projection in that I am seeing where I am headed, where I want to be, and how I am getting there. I thrive off of active meditation — getting the blood flowing takes my mind to a clear, powerful space.
Recess: If someone was just starting on their fitness journey (and needed a pick-me-up!), what would you say?
CC: Motivation is mental, the follow-through is physical. Respect this important principle to stay consistent with your fitness journey; when your mental lacks, your physical output can create the momentum shift your mind needs to get back on track, and vice versa. Don’t rely solely on mental motivation to get where you want to be. There will be days the mental battle will be won by your body!
Recess: What do you do when you’re feeling burnout coming on?
CC: If it is mental burnout, I give myself space to explore something new to give me a shift in perspective (in fitness of course). If physical, I listen to my body and up my recovery regimen (focused stretching, massage, etc).
Recess: Why is destigmatizing mental health personally important to you?
CC: I’ve witnessed and personally felt the negative effects of how society perceives mental health my whole life. We are expected to always be “on point” and aren’t given the space to navigate and explore our mental wellbeing.