Meet Jennifer Richardson, a New Canaan native and mom of four who turned her passion for health and fitness into a second career. Now a nutritionist and coach, she helps clients reach their goals through the FASTer Way to Fat Loss program. The method combines science-backed nutrition strategies, effective workouts and personal coaching. Jennifer is now accepting clients for her next six-week round, which begins on January 6, 2025. Read more about Jennifer, her family, and what her favorite places are in town.
How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
I have 4 children…all went through the New Canaan Public School System. I have 3 boys (25, 23, 22) that have recently graduated college and are all living in NYC—my dream come true! My daughter is the fourth—she is 19 and a sophomore in college. Life has been different having them all out of the house but they come home often, and I love when the house is full. I keep myself very busy with family, workouts, paddle, and as a FASTer Way coach!
What brought you and your family to town?
I moved to New Canaan with my parents and sister when I was in seventh grade. I loved growing up here—the charming town, parks, public schools, etc. When my husband and I were married, I wanted to live in New Canaan and he wanted to live in Greenwich (where he grew up!). We bid on houses in both towns and lucky for me—the one in New Canaan came through!
What prompted your love for health and wellness?
My life has always revolved around health and wellness. I love to cook, play sports, workout, walk, search for new healthy recipes, research health trends, etc. I have always been a healthy eater and been very focused on whole food nutrition for myself and my family. When my kids were growing up, I was a full-time volunteer—serving on the Board of Education, being the class mom, on the PFA board, chairing Post Prom…the list goes on. But, when my daughter went to college I decided I was going to focus on my passion, health and wellness. During COVID, I stumbled upon the FASTer Way to Fat Loss method…a scientifically based program that takes all the guesswork out of nutrition and fitness and gives clients a plan. I was so intrigued by the FW method and the science behind it…I tried the program and have never turned back. I lost the weight I had been trying to lose for years and saw my body composition change significantly. AND I was literally eating more and working out less than I did before I started. I decided then that I was going to become a certified FASTer Way coach. I love it!
Please tell us about your business and what types of services you offer.
The FASTer Way to Fat Loss is the only clinically-proven program that strategically pairs effective workouts with science-backed nutrition strategies and personal coaching. Our holistic approach promotes optimal wellness and a lean physique no matter your stage in life. You’ll get tight and toned in record time with our signature fat loss pillars: Whole Food Nutrition, Intermittent Fasting, Macronutrient Tracking, Carb Cycling, 30 minute Workouts, and positive motivation and accountability! You will literally learn how to eat more, workout less, get stronger, and feel more energetic—all while gaining muscle and losing fat!
When you join the FASTer Way, you will enter into my 6-week health and wellness program (My next program begins January 6, 2025.) As a client you will receive one-on-one coaching, education, and support. You will also receive access to the FASTer Way to Fat Loss mobile app or desktop portal with tools to help you thrive. Here you will receive your customized macro targets, access daily workouts and meal guides, and so much more!
Best part of your job?
I love what I do. I live the method and love passing it on to others. Whether you are looking to lose weight, gain energy, be stronger, be healthier, or lose the bloat—the FW really works! I have been learning about nutrition and fitness for years and now I get to pass this knowledge on to my clients and help them develop a healthy lifestyle for themselves and their families. I love when clients call/text to tell me how the FASTer Way has changed their lives for the better!
What advice would you give other moms interested in starting their own business?
It’s important to do some true soul searching and be realistic with expectations and goals. Look at your home life and make sure you can balance it all. And…do what you love! This is my second career and honestly, I wish I had studied nutrition in college! Lastly, be sure to not take on too much. I have always said yes to anyone that has asked me to volunteer…learn how to say no! It makes life much calmer and now I can really focus on what I love—and who I love.
Favorite family activity in town?
We love to play tennis and paddle as a family. We also do family hikes and especially love going to the spots where the dogs can run free.
How do you unwind?
I love to walk in Irwin park in New Canaan when the sun is going down…so peaceful and quiet.
Any words to live by?
Every day is a gift.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
The days are long but the years go by quickly. I didn’t believe it when the kids were little…but now that my kids are in college and/or graduated, I know it is SO true! Life flies by—be present.
Favorite places in town to…
Eat dinner: We love to go to Elm in New Canaan…
Grab a drink: The drinks at Blackbird are soooo good!
Have a date night: We love to sit at the bar at Sole….and the best spot in the winter is in front of the pizza oven!
Takeout: Our favorite takeout spot is Farmers Table….the food there is made with quality ingredients and always good! The sourdough bread is home-made and amazing!
Best place for healthy grab and go meals: Four Forks in Darien…healthy, yummy salads and dinners. It’s perfect for busy moms!
Shop: I love to go to TOGS…Mary Jane (the owner) has been there since I was in high school!
Spa: I get my facials at Skyn Studio by Aimee. She is really on top of the newest trends and products.
Grab a coffee: I love JACKS coffee at Greenology
Sports store: We go to Athletic Shoe Factory all the time. I feel like we are always buying workout shoes, tennis shoes, paddle balls, hand warmers, etc.
PHOTOGRAPHS BY: SUZY NOLAN