A New You for 2026

Fitness Tips, With Miranda Strutz

Miranda Strutz is a familiar face at Reedsburg Area High School, but her dedication to helping others extends well beyond her work in the the classroom. In addition to teaching at RAHS, Strutz serves as a health and wellness coach at Webb Ave Nutrition in Reedsburg. In this role, she operates as an independent contractor for Herbalife, a global nutrition company, where she sells their products and mentors clients on their wellness journeys.

Whether supporting students in school or coaching clients at the nutrition club, Strutz is committed to building healthy habits. Reedsburg Features caught up with Strutz to discuss her top fitness tips heading into 2026.

Q&A: Fitness Tips for the New Year with RAHS’ Miranda Strutz

RF: What are your top fitness tips for 2026?

MS: Start small and be consistent. If you set a goal that is too big, it becomes too easy to quit. Make your goal attainable, stick with it, and most importantly, choose activities that you actually enjoy.

RF: Where is the best place to work out?

MS: You don’t need a gym to get a great workout. You can jump on a trampoline, go sledding, or play at a park—there are so many opportunities! Choose something you love, but remember to get enough sleep and stay hydrated. If your body isn’t recharged, the workout won’t be as effective.

RF: How should students approach their health habits as the New Year approaches?

MS: Focus on building positive routines rather than setting massive resolutions. Don't aim for a marathon next month. Set a small initial goal that feels reachable, which will help you build momentum toward your long-term goals.

RF: People talk a lot about the importance of routine. How do you see it?

MS: Start small and build habits into your daily system. Think about balance: good sleep, regular movement, and eating real meals. For instance, avoid grabbing breadsticks from a gas station for lunch. Instead, eat a nutritional meal with solid protein, a fruit or veggie, and healthy starches like sweet potatoes or quinoa.

RF: Speaking of healthy eating, why do you think so many people fall back on bad habits?

MS: Convenience is a major factor. It is easy to walk into a Kwik Trip and grab whatever is right there. People often choose what is easiest because they are busy and overcommitted.

RF: What can they do to ensure they eat a more nutritious diet?

MS: Plan ahead! Take some time on Sunday or the night before to map out what you will take to school the next day. That is what I do—the night before a school day, I plan exactly what I’m going to eat. It is super helpful.

RF: Most students rely on parents or guardians for shopping. How can they take ownership of their diet?

MS: Make a list of healthy foods you enjoy and give it to your parents. It is okay to ask for treats, but be willing to compromise. Before I go to the grocery store, I ask my own kids to write down five things they want. If it is all junk food, I ask them to switch out four of those items. That compromise seems to work.

RF: What holds students back from maintaining strong health habits?

MS: I think one of the biggest challenges is that students overbook themselves. They end up drained and wiped out, which makes finding a healthy balance difficult.

RF: As we head into 2026, how can students find time for their health despite their busy schedules?

MS: Be okay with saying "no" when you are already overbooked. That is a great life skill to learn. Also, try making one single swap every day—replace one unhealthy food with a healthy one. Before you know it, you will be making more healthy choices because you will feel better!