Powering Up

When Melanie Costantino gave CrossFit a try in 2016, it soon became clear that she was one of the strongest people in the gym. “I went on to powerlifting, but it wasn’t until I discovered strongman that I felt I found the perfect combination of strength, agility, technique, speed and challenge,” says the Hackensack attorney. She competes at local, national and international levels, including a win at the United States Strongman Nationals in 2018.

“Training provides me with the opportunity to unwind and step away from my caseload and do something for myself,” says Costantino, with The Law Offices of Melanie R. Costantino. “When I train, I am only focused on the task at hand—whether I am squatting, deadlifting, or practicing yoke runs.”

 And there’s a connection to her day job. “As a solo practitioner who primarily focuses on elder law, being strong has massive carryover,” she says. “I explain to my clients that we lose strength and mobility as we get older. With strength comes healthier aging, independence, better balance—and the ability to carry your own groceries.”

Increased strength has gone hand in hand with increased confidence and mental fortitude. “Just because it is heavy doesn’t mean I can’t lift it,” she says. “Likewise, just because a case or the parties are complex doesn’t mean I can’t handle it.”