Maria Birova, a first-generation Bulgarian American from Chicago, discovered strength training at 13, igniting a lifelong passion. What started as a way to feel stronger became a journey of self-discipline, confidence, and resilience. She eventually became a Wellness World Champion and dedicated her career to coaching women worldwide.

But the path wasn’t always smooth. Maria battled disordered eating, extremes, and an all-or-nothing mindset—struggles many women face. Determined to break the cycle, she founded Mindful Bodies to help women build strength and confidence without restrictions or burnout.

With over 12 years as an athlete and 8+ years as a coach, Maria has helped hundreds of women transform not just their bodies, but their relationship with fitness and nutrition. A Certified Nutritionist, Strength Coach, and Pre & Postnatal Specialist, she combines science-backed strategies with real-world experience.

Her mission? To help women stop spinning their wheels, build a body they love, and feel unstoppable in their own skin—because fitness should enhance life, not control it.

Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein powder supports muscle and post-workout recovery with 24g of quality protein and 5.5g of naturally occurring BCAAs per serving¹.

It’s crafted to be a complete, fast-digesting protein with whey protein isolate as the primary source – a filtered form of whey that can support protein goals for people at every level of fitness – from daily runners and gym-goers to competitive strength athletes and everyone in between. With more than 15+ great-tasting flavor options, satisfying texture, and easy mixing with only a glass and spoon, you’ll always look forward to getting the protein you want in your active, performance-driven lifestyle. It’s everything you’ve come to expect from Optimum Nutrition: The World’s #1 Sports Nutrition Brand⁴.