Nia Dennis Talks All Things Health and Wellness

If you want to put your health and wellness first in 2022, Nia Dennis, former UCLA and USA National Team gymnast, has all the tips to guide you. Dennis has recently partnered with Pressed to inspire others to focus on themselves and their well-being. We were able to talk with her about this collaboration, her knowledge on health and wellness and her gymnastics background.

You’ve teamed up with Pressed to influence others to have a happier and healthier lifestyle in the new year. How do you hope to inspire others to start 2022 on a healthy note and reset their routine?

For me, it’s not about making big resolutions this year, but taking small steps to make big changes. My first step is getting more fruits and veggies into my day. That’s why I’ve become a fan of Pressed juices and wellness shots. The easy grab and go options help me make healthy choices in between all of my gymnastics practices, competitions and tours. Through my partnership with Pressed, you can also take those small steps with the Limited-Edition Nia Dennis Routine. It’s the perfect mix to nourish my body and get antioxidants and vitamins into my daily routine. The Routine includes three Pressed juices— Greens 2 juice, Citrus 2 juice, Strawberry Orange Mango Smoothie and three wellness shots— Vitality, Probiotic and Recovery. You can learn more and order the Nia Dennis Routine on pressed.com

You’re a retired UCLA gymnast and member of the US Women’s National Gymnastics Team. What is your health and wellness routine now and what are your favorite workouts to stay in good shape?

I get in some sort of workout every single day! I start my workout by stretching, which is super important so my muscles are loosened up. My body and my mind are always happier when I take time to get limber. I love working out in outdoor locations like the Santa Monica Pier to soak in that fresh air. There is also a lot of space to move around during my workout. I also enjoy going for a walk or hiking. Working out in the morning gives me great energy and sets the tone for the rest of the day!

Diet has a great effect on health and wellness as well. What do you typically eat in a day to fuel and nourish your body?

I start every day with a Pressed Greens 2 Juice as well as a Pressed Vitality Shot. It gives me the antioxidants I need to take on the day! Outside of my Nia Dennis Routine, I love snacking on trail mixes as it gives me a boost of energy that carries me through the day. I also think balance is key, so I incorporate bread into my diet because who doesn’t love bread!?

See also: Weekly Recipe Roasted Sweet Potato by Zou Zou's in NYC

Throughout your time as a gymnast, I’m sure there were many powerful women who mentored you and encouraged you to be the best version of yourself. Who are some of these women that inspire you to put yourself and your well-being first?

First and foremost, my mom inspires me! She motivates me each and every day and is full of great advice. I am also inspired by my former UCLA coach, Ms. Val, who retired my sophomore year. Not only was she a great coach, but she also encouraged me to go to therapy. Mental health is not always prioritized in gymnastics, so she taught me the importance of getting help. One of my former teammates, Madison Kocian, also inspires me a lot. I struggled with my academics at times and she took time out of her busy day to help me. She was always literally and metaphorically in my corner.

What was it like to see your 2021 Beyoncé-themed floor routine go viral?

It was a dream come true and truly surreal! I’d been the underdog gymnast for so long and when my routine went viral, I felt like I was finally getting the recognition I deserved. At that point, I felt like everything was falling into place, which was truly a weight off my shoulders.

You tore your Achilles three months before the 2016 Olympics. How did this event transform your perspective on success?

This event truly transformed my perspective on success because I suddenly saw everything I had sacrificed and worked for go down the drain. At the time, I thought I was just a gymnast and the Olympics was the ultimate goal for me. However, my injury forced me to dig deep and analyze the other goals I had for myself. One of my other goals was to go to UCLA and I pushed through and accomplished that. I also began to approach gymnastics as I used to when I was a child, when it was fun and freeing.

Dennis attends the 2022 Met Gala.

With a whole year ahead of you full of opportunities, I’m sure you’re looking forward to this new year. Do you have any upcoming projects you’d like to share with us?

I want to get involved in all things entertainment! This includes modeling, acting and working in fashion. I also have a partnership with Adidas by Stella McCartney that I love and am happy everyone is able to see and enjoy. You’ll be seeing even more of me very soon!