Posing for Purpose: Competing with Parkinson's with Christine Brandl Part 1
Welcome back to the Fit Body Lifestyle! This week’s episode is one that wraps you in inspiration like a cozy, well-earned post-workout hoodie. We sat down with the phenomenal Dr. Christine Brandl—OBGYN, IFBB Bikini Pro, and living example of grit and grace. Her story is a testament to pursuing purpose, leaning into discipline, and embracing challenges head-on.
Christine’s journey is not just about fitness; it’s about resilience. From lifting sand-filled milk jugs at 14, to earning her pro card, to navigating life with Parkinson’s disease, she shows us what it means to keep showing up for yourself and your dreams. Through childhood memories of watching her mom exercise in the living room to playing collegiate volleyball for her father, Christine’s life has been shaped by movement, family, and unshakable determination.
Listening to Christine reminds us that the way we move, the choices we make, and the attitude we carry can turn life’s hardships into a purpose-driven path.
5 Key Takeaways from This Episode
Passion is Planted Early
Christine’s love for fitness started as a little girl watching her mom turn furniture into gym equipment and lead aerobics classes. Sometimes our biggest lifelong passions sprout from simple childhood routines.Resourcefulness Fuels Growth
Before gyms and fancy equipment, Christine was lifting milk jugs filled with sand. Her story is a reminder that starting where you are—with whatever tools you have—can lead to incredible results.Discipline Builds Trust in Yourself
Playing college volleyball under her father taught Christine the value of accountability. She learned to show up, work harder than anyone else, and earn respect through consistency.Family Influence Shapes Fitness Mindsets
Seeing both parents prioritize health made fitness feel “normal” for Christine. Modeling healthy habits at home can shape generations of wellness.Your Mindset is Your Secret Weapon
Whether competing on stage or managing life with Parkinson’s, Christine leans into a mindset of resilience. “We finish what we start,” she recalls her father saying—a mantra that fuels her competitive and personal life.
Christine’s story in this first part of our conversation reminds us that fitness is so much more than physical. It’s about building a strong mind, leaning into purpose, and embracing the lessons along the journey.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive deeper into how she navigates the world of bodybuilding while living with Parkinson’s—and how her purpose keeps her posing for more than just the stage.
