Recovering From a Torn ACL, Ruptured Meniscus, and Tibial Plateau Fracture — My Story and What Really Helped

Let me tell you the truth about how it happened.

I was at a practice, not even a game, playing lingerie football and running a down and out route. I planted hard and suddenly felt a pop in my knee. No echo, just a deep, sickening sound and the pain that followed. The turf was silent and all I could do was scream.

I knew something was wrong. But I kept going. I was hard headed and stubborn. I played on that knee for another month even though I knew it was torn. Please do not do what I did. I would never recommend it.

Eventually I was diagnosed with a torn ACL, a ruptured meniscus, and a tibial plateau fracture.

Yes, all three. It was brutal.

The Rehab That Helped Me Heal

My recovery was long and intense. I took it seriously because I knew I wanted to come back stronger — and smarter.

Here’s what worked for me:

1. Prehab before surgery
Getting strong before surgery was key. I focused on:

• Quad over roll
• Straight leg lifts
• Heel slides
• Glute bridges

These helped keep my muscles activated and made my recovery smoother post-op.

2. Game Ready — my MVP recovery tool
The Game Ready ice and compression unit was a game changer. It combined cold therapy and compression to reduce inflammation, manage pain, and speed up recovery. I used it religiously and recommend it to anyone recovering from injury or surgery.

3. Acupuncture
This was another powerful part of my healing plan. Weekly acupuncture sessions helped reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and relieve pain. It supported my recovery in a more holistic way and helped my body heal from the inside out.

4. Core, glutes, and total body focus
I didn’t just rehab my knee. I worked on strengthening my entire body to prevent compensation injuries. Core strength, glute activation, and mobility were just as important as the knee itself.

Lessons I Learned the Hard Way

• Pain is your body’s warning sign. Do not ignore it.
• Rest is just as important as movement.
• Prehab sets you up for a better recovery.
• High quality recovery tools like Game Ready are worth the investment.
• A strong mindset is everything but so is listening to your body.
• You are not weak for taking time to heal. You are smart.

Need Help With Your Own Recovery?

Whether you are dealing with an ACL tear, meniscus injury, or just want a coach who understands what you’re going through I got you. I’ve lived it. I coach from real experience, not just certifications.

📍 Toronto-based with virtual coaching available
📩 Contact: trainitright@gmail.com
🌐 Website: www.trainitright.com
💪 Experience a session with me in person: My Airbnb Experience – Book Here
🏋️‍♀️ Performance Coach at Push Pounds Sports Medicine – 147 Spadina Ave
🔥 Studio Manager at F45 Yorkville and F45 Toronto Midtown
🎥 Featured on Drake’s livestream with Adin Ross
🎬 As seen in commercials for New Balance, Garnier, and more
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US Open generates estimated $39 million in sponsorship revenue for 2025 edition, reveals GlobalData

Seven brands sponsored the 2025 edition of the US Open, with American Express, Rolex, and Lexus entering into substantial agreements estimated at an annual value of $6.25 million each. Overall, the annual sponsorship revenue for the 2025 edition of the tournament is estimated to be $39 million, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

GlobalData’s latest report, “Post Event Analysis – U.S. Open (Golf) 2025,” reveals that the domestic media revenue for the 2025 US Open is valued at an estimated $40 million. The total prize pool for the 2025 edition was set at $21.5 million, mirroring the amount allocated for the 2024 tournament.

Olivia Snooks, Sport Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The sponsors of the US Open primarily sponsor the USGA, which oversees several golf championships, including the US Open, but also the US Women’s Open, US Amateur Championships, and the US Senior Open. There were also no new sponsors for the 2025 edition of the US Open.”

In 2020, NBC secured the domestic broadcasting rights to the US Open, with the partnership expected to extend through 2026. This arrangement followed the early termination of the agreement with Fox Sports. NBC attracted 5.4 million viewers on the final day of the 2025 US Open, making it the least-watched US Open final round since Bryson DeChambeau’s inaugural victory at Winged Foot in 2020.

Snooks continues: “NBC encountered criticism for its coverage of the 2025 US Open, with viewers expressing dissatisfaction over an abundance of commercials, restricted streaming availability, and subpar production quality. The network, responsible for broadcasting the event on NBC, USA Network, and Peacock, provided nearly 300 hours of coverage but faced allegations of placing profit over the viewer experience.”

J. J. Spaun secured $4.3 million for his victory in the 2025 US Open, equaling the earnings of the previous year's winner, Bryson DeChambeau. Rory McIlroy, winner of the 2025 Masters, received $4.2 million, while Scottie Scheffler, the champion of this year's PGA Championship, was awarded $3.4 million. Robert McIntyre, the runner-up at the 2025 US Open, was awarded $2.3 million, whereas Viktor Hovland earned $1.4 million for his third-place finish. Cameron Young, Tyrrell Hatton, and Carlos Ortiz, who finished in a tie for fourth place, each received $878,815.

Snooks concludes: “The prize money for the 2025 US Open is the most substantial among the four major golf tournaments, higher than that of the Masters, the PGA Championship and the Open Championship. Despite the prize money remaining unchanged from the 2024 to the 2025 edition, it represents a significant growth compared to four years prior, when the total amount stood at $12.5 million, with the champion earning $2.25 million.”

Novel Digital Test Provides Revolutionary Tool to Assess Brain Chemistry
Large Implications for Cognitive Aging and Dementia

San Francisco, July 7, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For the first time, a study shows a digital assessment can provide a scientific measure of acetylcholine – a key brain chemical whose decline signals the progression of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease. The assessment (here) can be self-administered and completed in about three minutes on internet-connected devices — with big implications for cognitive aging and dementia. The assessment was developed by Posit Science, the maker ofBrainHQ brain training exercises and assessments, and examined as part of an NIH-funded study in collaboration with researchers at McGill University.

“Currently, it’s impossible for doctors to monitor this brain chemical despite its importance because it requires expensive imaging equipment and special expertise available at few research centers,” said Dr. Henry Mahncke, CEO of Posit Science. “This breakthrough shows a new path for routine monitoring of brain health by doctors and individuals.” 

The brain’s neuromodulatory system produces brain chemicals that impact mood, learning, attention, responsiveness, and memory. Brain scientists have known for decades that the system (and its subsystems that produce various brain chemicals) operate more sluggishly (downregulate) with aging and various health conditions.

The assessment focuses on the cholinergic system — a subsystem that produces the brain chemical acetylcholine — sometimes called the “pay attention” chemical, because it is produced when you pay attention. The production of acetylcholine is known to down regulate with normal aging, and even more severely with pre-dementia and with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). 

Cholinergic function is recognized as a key biomarker of overall brain health, regulates the ability of the brain to change (“plasticity”), and is associated with stronger cognitive performance (in sensory processing, attention, learning, memory, and executive function). Poor cholinergic function is linked to the production of plaque and tangles associated with ADRD, as well deficits in other conditions.

Currently there is no easily accessible way to measure cholinergic function. No standardized blood test to directly measure it exists. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) brain imaging techniques can be used; however, this method is costly, requires specialized expertise, and exposes participants to radiation, limiting its use in clinical practice. 

“We developed a digital cognitive test to be a sensitive measure of brain health. To validate the test, we approached the researchers at The Neuro at McGill University, because it is one of a small number of places on the planet with the imaging technology to measure acetylcholine directly,” said Dr. Henry Mahncke. “In this study, they measured acetylcholine alongside cognitive performance using our assessment.”

The imaging study enrolled 92 healthy older adults (average age 72). Each was measured using: a BrainHQ assessment (Double Decision); two other validated neuropsychological assessments; and a PET scan using tracer to evaluate cholinergic neurotransmission.

The study showed better scores on the Double Decision assessment correlated with higher cholinergic function, indicating that the assessment could estimate cholinergic function without the complexity and risk of doing a PET scan. These results align with prior studies showing a significant relationship between cholinergic function and cognitive performance as measured by clinician-administered tools.

The assessment was brief, taking an average of 3 minutes to complete, and demonstrated good usability with reasonable descriptive and psychometric properties. It was sensitive to age within the narrow band measured of 65-83 years and was not influenced by demographic factors such as years of education or gender. 

The researchers conclude: “The results support the adoption of this scalable form of biomarker-informed cognitive assessment available to individuals with an internet-connected device.”

“These researchers also are looking at whether our brain exercises can upregulate acetylcholine, which would have a tremendous impact on cognitive aging and ADRD research,” Dr. Mahncke added. “We look forward to learning more.

BrainHQ exercises have shown benefits in more than 300 studies. Such benefits include gains in cognition (attention, speed, memory, decision-making), in quality of life (depressive symptoms, confidence and control, health-related quality of life) and in real-world activities (health outcomes, balance, driving, workplace activities). BrainHQ is used by leading health and Medicare Advantage plans, by leading medical centers, clinics, and communities, and by elite athletes, the military, and other organizations focused on peak performance. Consumers can try a BrainHQ exercise for free daily at https://www.brainhq.com. 

This research was supported by the National Institute on Aging of the National Institutes of Health under Award Numbers R44AG039965 and 3R44AG039965-06S1. This content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health

New Wellness Additions: My First Impressions of Alkaline Herb Shop Supplements

Posted by Alicia Bell, IFBB Pro and Performance Coach | www.trainitright.com

If you know me, you know I’m always on the lookout for high quality, clean supplements that support a healthy, high performance lifestyle. So when the team at @alkalineherbshop sent over these beautifully packaged, plant based supplements, I couldn’t wait to dive in.

Here’s what I received and why I’m excited to try each one.

🌿 Plant Power — Chlorophyll Blend

This stood out immediately. Chlorophyll is known for supporting detoxification, boosting natural energy, and promoting clearer skin. As someone who trains hard and manages a high output schedule, keeping my body oxygenated and supported from within is essential. This formula is vegan, gluten free, and made without any fillers or additives.

🌊 Sea Moss and Bladderwrack — Ocean Minerals

A powerful combination for mineral support, thyroid function, and gut health. Sea moss is packed with iodine and trace minerals, while bladderwrack adds another layer of anti-inflammatory benefits. With 200 capsules in this bottle, it is perfect for daily consistency throughout training and prep.

🌱 Burdock Root

This is one I have wanted to try for a while. Burdock root is traditionally used to support blood purification, liver health, and hormonal balance. It is a staple herb in many detox programs and is ideal for athletes looking to optimize their internal systems without overloading.

Why I Chose Alkaline Herb Shop

Their products are

✅ 100 percent plant based

✅ Vegan and gluten free

✅ Free of artificial ingredients or fillers

✅ Packaged with sustainability in mind

They align with the way I live and train — intentional, real, and effective.

How I’m Incorporating Them

I will be adding these supplements into my current daily stack over the next few weeks. I plan to start gradually, monitor how I feel, and watch for changes in recovery, energy, digestion, and overall performance. I am especially curious to see how the chlorophyll affects my skin and endurance.

If you are interested in plant based wellness, supporting your immune system naturally, or exploring sea moss and herbal blends, I highly recommend checking them out.

Shop directly through my link:

👉 alkalineherbshop.com/@trainitright

Use code TRAINITRIGHT for 10 percent off your order.

Let me know if you have used any of these before or if you want an update once I have given them a full test run.

Train smart. Live right.

Alicia

Now Live: My Airbnb Fitness Experience in Toronto
Your chance to train with an IFBB Pro while traveling or staying local.

I’m so excited to officially announce that my Airbnb Fitness Experience is now live — and open for bookings!

This has been in the works for a while and I’m proud to finally share it. I was selected by Airbnb Global as one of their official Experience Hosts as part of their international launch across 70+ cities... and I get to represent Toronto through movement, mindset, and energy.

Whether you’re visiting the city or you live here full-time, this experience is for you.

What is the Airbnb Fitness Experience?

Think of it as a high-energy, feel-good sweat session with me — Alicia Bell, IFBB Pro Figure competitor, celebrity trainer, and founder of Train It Right.

We’ll meet at Push Pounds Sports Medicine (481 Danforth Ave, Toronto), a private performance studio where I coach athletes, celebrities, and clients of all levels. From warm-up to finish, you’ll get a full-body session that challenges you, motivates you, and meets you exactly where you're at.

No cookie-cutter class. No judgment. Just vibes, movement, and results.

Why Book a Fitness Experience While in Toronto?

Fitness travel is on the rise — and for good reason. When people explore new cities, they want to experience more than food and photos. They want something real, something personal, something they can feel.

This Airbnb Experience in Toronto is perfect if you're:
• Traveling and want to stay active
• Looking for unique wellness activities in the city
• New to fitness but want to try something different
• Local and craving a fresh way to train
• Visiting for business and need a reset between meetings
• A fan of my coaching and want to finally meet in person

Whether you're solo, with a friend, or planning a girls' trip — I’ve got you.

What to Expect

• A 60-minute workout designed by me
• Bodyweight and functional movement
• Options for all fitness levels
• Private studio environment
• Toronto's east end — close to transit and local cafes
• Post-session Q&A and real talk about fitness, mindset, or anything you want to ask

Ready to Book?

You can reserve your spot here:
👉 https://www.airbnb.com/x/trainitright

Spots are limited, and I’d truly love to have you join me. If you’ve followed my journey online or worked with me virtually — this is your chance to connect in person and move together.

I don’t take this opportunity lightly. To be selected as a host means a lot to me... and I want to make it something unforgettable for every single person who walks through the door.

If you’re planning a trip to Toronto, love wellness-based experiences, or just want to book a session that hits different — come through.

Let’s train. Let’s vibe. Let’s make this your favorite hour in the city.

With love and sweat,
Alicia Bell
Celebrity Trainer | IFBB Pro | Airbnb Experience Host
www.trainitright.com
@trainitright

appy 4th of July to all my American friends and followers!
Even from across the border, I can appreciate how powerful this day is — not just in terms of celebration, but in what it represents.

As a Canadian who works closely with clients, brands, and people across the U.S., I’ve had the chance to witness the impact that American values can create when they’re backed by action. Not just talk — but real movement.

One example that really stood out to me recently:
Over $10 million has been raised through Lokai’s charity partnerships. That’s not just a feel-good stat. That’s real money going to real causes — and a reminder that every choice matters. Especially the small ones.

The American Spirit Goes Deeper Than Fireworks

Independence Day isn’t just about flags and fireworks. It’s about something far more personal — your freedom to choose.

Your freedom to choose how you show up.
To pick hope instead of fear.
To lead with calm in a chaotic world.
To make an impact, even in quiet ways.

Freedom is not a one-day event. It’s a mindset you wake up and lean into — every single morning. The question is:

What will you choose today?
Peace or pressure?
Gratitude or anxiety?
Intention or autopilot?

Why I Love My American Flag Lokai Bracelet 🇺🇸

As someone who lives a busy, active life — coaching, creating, managing, and trying to stay grounded — I’m always looking for little things that help me stay centered.

The American Flag Lokai bracelet is one of those things.

It’s not just an accessory. It’s a daily reminder that you get to decide how to respond. That mindset is universal — whether you’re in Toronto, New York, LA, or anywhere in between.

👉 Here’s the link if you want to check it out

I don’t have a discount code to share at the moment, but I absolutely love mine. It reminds me to stay balanced. To be intentional. To keep perspective no matter what the day throws at me.

So today, as America celebrates, I’m sending love and light from the north.

Not just to mark the occasion — but to celebrate the mindset of choosing purpose over pressure, clarity over chaos, and movement over hesitation.

Happy 4th of July.
— Alicia Bell
www.trainitright.com
@trainitright

Why I’m Recommending Arnipatch for Pain Relief This Summer

Summer means more movement, longer days, and—if you’re anything like me—more wear and tear on your body. Whether you're coaching, traveling, training clients, or just trying to stay active, the reality is that pain doesn’t take time off.

As someone with a history of back issues, I’ve tried just about everything to stay ahead of pain. But recently, I tried something new that genuinely made a difference—and I want to share it with you.

Introducing LaboFlex Arnipatch

The team at LaboFlex was kind enough to send me their Arnipatch hydrogel pain relief patches to try, and I’m glad they did. After a few days of use, I felt a noticeable difference—especially in my lower back, which tends to tighten up after long coaching days and heavy training sessions.

Arnipatch is infused with Arnica 1X HPUS, a trusted homeopathic ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. The patch is designed to deliver up to 12 hours of cooling, targeted relief without the mess of creams or the side effects of pills.

And for someone constantly on the move, that’s exactly what I need.

Why I Recommend It

Here’s what made Arnipatch stand out for me:

• Discreet and non-greasy – No smell, no residue, and it stayed in place even during a full workday
• Gentle but effective – My back felt supported without any of the harsh tingling or irritation some pain products can cause
• Supports both holistic and conventional routines – Whether you’re into acupuncture, chiropractic, mobility work, or traditional medicine, Arnipatch fits right in
• Doctor recommended and clinically tested – This isn’t just another “wellness” product, it’s backed by real research
• Hydrogel technology – It soothes the skin while delivering consistent relief beneath the surface

Who It’s For

Honestly? Anyone who moves a lot. Trainers, first responders, parents, equestrians, gardeners, athletes, or anyone who experiences daily discomfort from hard work or injury. Arnipatch works quietly in the background while you go about your day.

Where to Find It

You can grab Arnipatch directly on Amazon or through their online store. If you want more details, images, or to learn more about how it works, feel free to reach out.

And if you deal with soreness, stiffness, or chronic tension like I do—especially in your back—I truly recommend giving this a try.

Big thank you to Giana and the team at LaboFlex for sending me some to test out.

I only share products I truly believe in and this one earned its spot in my daily recovery routine.

—
Alicia Bell
Celebrity Trainer | IFBB Pro | Performance Coach
www.trainitright.com

Title: Celebrity Trainer for Travel and Resorts: Let’s Create an Unforgettable Fitness Experience

Looking to elevate your guest experience with a one-of-a-kind fitness activation, retreat, or luxury wellness session? My name is Alicia Bell, and I’m a Toronto-based celebrity trainer, IFBB Pro Figure athlete, and founder of Train It Right. I specialize in performance coaching, group fitness, and personal training, and I’m currently booking select resort and travel collaborations for 2025 and 2026.

Whether you're a luxury resort, wellness retreat, or international travel experience platform, I would love to connect about ways we could work together.

Why Work with Me?

I bring a unique mix of elite coaching credentials, media presence, and global wellness experience to every opportunity.

A Bit About Me:

• Celebrity Trainer to high-profile clients including NBA players, musicians, and Drake’s mother
• IFBB Pro Figure Competitor and nationally published fitness model
• Performance Coach at Push Pounds Sports Medicine in Toronto
• Regional Manager for two F45 Training Studios in Toronto
• Airbnb Global Experience Host — selected to lead exclusive fitness experiences in Toronto as part of Airbnb’s curated launch across 70 cities
• Campaign Model & Spokesperson for brands like New Balance, Garnier, and Tokyo Smoke
• Former Team Canada Track & Field Coach with deep experience managing elite training clubs and private client programs

What I Offer:

• High-energy group fitness classes, performance sessions, or wellness workshops on-site
• Custom fitness retreats or short-term guest experiences
• Influencer-hosted activations or social coverage in exchange for accommodation
• Flexible, brand-aligned programming designed to meet the needs of your guests, no matter their fitness level

If you are searching for a celebrity fitness trainer for travel, a Toronto performance coach for your next event, or a wellness influencer to host fitness activations, I would love to collaborate.

Social Reach & Online Presence

I bring strong organic reach across multiple platforms to help promote your location or experience:

• Instagram: 86,000+ followers
• TikTok: 10,200 followers
• YouTube: 1,700 subscribers
• Pinterest: 47,000 monthly impressions
• Facebook: 17,600+ followers on my top performing page
• X (formerly Twitter): 9,400 followers
• Website: www.trainitright.com
• Airbnb Experience: www.airbnb.com/x/trainitright
• About Me: www.trainitright.com/about

Let’s Create Something Powerful

If your resort, retreat, or travel company is looking for a group fitness coach, celebrity personal trainer, or performance coach to enhance your guest experience, let’s talk. I am open to brand partnerships, influencer stays, short-term fitness activations, and curated retreat leadership.

You bring the space. I’ll bring the energy.

Interested in collaborating?
👉 Reach out to me directly here

Let’s train it right.

Alicia Bell
IFBB Pro Athlete | Performance and Competition Prep Coach | BSc Kinesiology
Airbnb Toronto Fitness Experience Host
📍 Toronto, Canada
📲 @trainitright