Celia Smart is a devoted wife, mother, fitness professional, speaker, and community leader who inspires individuals and organizations to lead with courage, embrace change, and build stronger communities through action. With more than 25 years of experience in the fitness industry and a career rooted in leadership, wellness, and service, Celia brings authenticity, energy, and practical insights to every stage she steps onto.

As Senior Project Manager for Ready Fitness, Celia combines her expertise in fitness, wellness, and design to create innovative fitness spaces for multifamily communities, corporate campuses, educational institutions, and private studios throughout the Southeast.

Celia's career has been built on helping people move with purpose. She served as Fitness Coach for the Charlotte Bobcats Lady Cats and Charlotte Hornets Honey Bees from 2008–2024 and has competed in 25 fitness competitions, earning her Fitness America Pro Card at age 40 and placing third at Fitness America Worlds. At age 50, she was selected as one of only 15 finalists nationwide to compete live in the HOTWORX Virtual Trainer Competition in Nashville. Her experience as both an athlete and coach gives her a unique perspective on leadership, resilience, longevity, and performance.

Beyond her professional career, Celia is passionate about building community through movement. She co-founded Multifamily Milers in 2025, a growing wellness initiative that brings together professionals across the multifamily industry through running, walking, fitness, and service. She is also a brand partner with Invigory Waverly, Clean Juice, and Salata in Charlotte, collaborating with organizations that share her passion for health, wellness, recovery, and community engagement.

A dynamic speaker, moderator, emcee, and event host, Celia has become a sought-after voice for organizations looking to inspire action and authentic leadership. She emceed TEDx Sugar Creek Women in 2025, has hosted multiple community events, moderated leadership panels for KNOW Women, and regularly serves as emcee for industry conferences, nonprofit fundraisers, and business events. Her signature message encourages audiences to stop waiting until they feel ready and instead choose courage over comfort—because confidence comes from taking the first step.

In 2025, Celia was recognized as one of the National Apartment Association's prestigious 20 on the Rise, honoring emerging leaders making a significant impact within the multifamily industry.

Her commitment to service extends far beyond fitness. She served five years on the board of the Healthy Charlotte Initiative, receiving the Novant Health Healthy Charlotte Volunteer of the Year Award in 2016. She previously served as President of the Greater Charlotte Apartment Association Products & Services Council and 2 years on the Executive Board. Cel currently serves as the 2026 President of the Piedmont Triad Apartment Association Products & Services Council. In 2019, she raised more than $32,000 for Carolina Breast Friends through Dancing with the Stars Charlotte, earning the Judges' Choice Award.

Whether speaking from the stage, designing inspiring wellness spaces, leading community initiatives, or mentoring others, Celia believes meaningful change begins with one courageous step. Her personal mantra—Be Amazing—serves as a daily reminder to embrace who you are, lead with authenticity, and create opportunities that positively impact the lives of others.