For over the past 20 years, we’ve celebrated the Valley’s best. From the top businesses and professionals to the people who make it all happen, Arizona Foothills Magazine’s annual Best of Our Valley contest recognizes Arizona’s crème de la crème across more than 400 categories. From the best doctors and best resort down to the best cup of coffee you can find around town, each Best of titleholder is chosen by those who know the city best – our readers.
Each week, we’ll be highlighting individual winners from Best of Our Valley 2018, who share their advice, insights and thoughts on what it means to be a part of this exclusive list.
The Best of spotlight is on Michael Gagnon, @michaelgagnon_, who claimed Best Fitness Instagram. Congrats, Michael!
AFM: What does it mean to you to be a Best of Our Valley winner?
MG: It’s an honor. To have the opportunity to wake up every day with a mission to motivate, educate and help guide people to transform not only their physical fitness but their mental state as well is an incredible feeling.
AFM: In your opinion, what is the best part about being the Best of Our Valley’s Best Fitness Instagram?
MG: Honestly, just being able to share my passion for health and fitness while representing the city I grew up in is pretty cool. It is my duty to serve as a positive role model and to have the ability to share my message on such a large online platform, knowing some people are counting on me to show up every day keeps me accountable.
AFM: Have you seen any benefits as a result of being a BOOV winner?
MG: Absolutely! I have received countless messages from people who discovered my Instagram from flipping through the pages of AZ Foothills magazine.
AFM: How do you put your “best” foot forward every day?
MG: Life comes down to choices. Every decision I make I know will have a direct impact on whether or not I’m making progress towards my goals or taking a step backward. I try my best to stay in the present, remain grateful for my health and those around me and lastly, the opportunity to make myself better every single day.
Interested in participating or want to recommend a business, professional or individual for Best of Our Valley? Best of Our Valley 2019 is now accepting nominations. Click here to find out more!
