About

Let me introduce myself.

Carolyn Mueller

Carolyn Mueller

Hi, I’m Carolyn Mueller.

Sports and movement have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up deeply involved in soccer, playing competitively through college — and I still play weekly here in Chicago.

Before moving to Chicago, I directed summer soccer leagues in my hometown of Badin, NC, led private conditioning sessions for high school athletes, and taught youth strength training and group fitness classes — including programs for individuals with developmental disabilities. I also helped host numerous community running events, which sparked my love for helping people of all ages and abilities stay active.

My passion for working with special populations began while training individuals with physical disabilities at my local YMCA. That experience led me to pursue further education and an internship with the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab (formerly the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago). After graduate school, I returned to Chicago as Fitness Manager for their Adaptive Health and Fitness Facility, where I oversaw programs for five years. I continue to collaborate with the Shirley Ryan team today.

From there, I transitioned back into the corporate fitness world, working as a Specialist at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness for five years, then as a Coach at East Bank Club — where I still train clients alongside my private practice.

I’ve also been fortunate to gain experience in advanced exercise testing (including VO₂ max testing and body composition assessments) and was part of the team that tested the Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Wolves hockey players from 2011–2015.

Today, I work with a wide range of clients — from athletes to beginners, older adults to those navigating injuries or chronic conditions. In addition to in‑person, virtual, and online coaching through Carolyn Mueller Fitness, I also provide wellness and exercise consultations for working professionals through Northwestern Executive Health.

Whether you’re looking to build strength, regain confidence in movement, or create healthier habits for the long run, my goal is the same: to meet you where you are and help you get where you want to go.

Specialties

  • Health and Wellness Coaching

  • Women’s Strength and Conditioning

  • Disability and Chronic Disease Support

  • Injury Recovery and Prevention

  • Pregnancy and Postpartum Fitness

  • Menopause Transition Wellness

  • Older Adult and Senior Fitness

  • Weight Loss and General Strength Training

  • Performance and Sports Conditioning

  • Water Rehabilitation, Beginner Swim & Swim Conditioning

  • Employee Wellness Programs

Education & Certifications

BS Exercise Science; Sports Medicine Concentration; Pfeiffer University, Misenheimer NC

MS Kinesiology; Nutrition and Physical Activity Concentration; James Madison University, Harrisonburg VA


Certifications & Credentials
Carolyn holds multiple advanced certifications, including:

  • Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBHWC)

  • Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM)

  • Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA)

  • Specialty credentials in menopause coaching, pregnancy & postpartum athleticism, inclusive fitness, nutrition, and more.

Full certification list available upon request.