Lisa Barella

Lisa A. Barella, Ph.D., MBA

Lisa is a wellness professional in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, who specializes in collegiate teaching and
research, group exercise instruction, wellness coaching, and wellness program development.  Her passion for
fitness and health started during her childhood, when she participated in jazz dance classes and enjoyed
putting together dance routines to music.  During her high school years, she focused on swimming, soccer, and basketball and eventually continued her swimming passion as a member of Susquehanna University’s
collegiate swim team.  After college she started running and competing in triathlons and eventually completed seven ultra-marathons, 20+ marathons, and 80+ running & triathlon races.  

Her active lifestyle, love of music, and passion for teaching encouraged her to pursue teaching group exercise
during graduate school.  She has been teaching group exercise for five years and her favorite classes to teach
are spin/cycle and extreme tone.  As a group exercise and spin instructor, she implements motivational and
goal setting techniques with her participants daily.  She also offers variations to each exercise, so that
beginner and advanced level participants can alter their routines and feel comfortable in class.

After receiving her doctorate in Sport and Exercise Psychology, Lisa started a wellness coaching practice, as a
way to assist others in reaching their health goals.  As a Wellcoaches® Certified Wellness Coach, Lisa
actively consults and guide clients through health and wellness related concerns. She uses theory and best
practices to guide the coaching process.  The Transtheoretical Model of Behavioral Change, appreciative
inquiry, positive psychology, SMART goal setting, and motivational interviewing provide a theoretical foundation for the wellness coaching work.  Lisa works professionally with clients and coaches them on nutrition, physical activity, stress reduction, chronic disease management and other wellness issues.  

Lisa is truly committed to helping others through listening, interpersonal skills, and motivation.  As a coach,
Lisa will provide support and encouragement, while helping you discover your personal best.  Her specialty
areas include starting and maintaining an exercise and healthy eating program and quality of life while
living with Celiac Disease.

Lisa’s core belief is that individuals can achieve success in all aspects of their lives by improving their health.  She is passionate about health and fitness and is ready to help you reach your wellness goals.