Cora Griffen

Time to get more acquainted with pageant queen and recently crowned Miss Grand USA 2024, CORA GRIFFEN…

Tell us a bit about your shoot – where, when, the idea behind it…
We shot during New York Fashion Week, a time when the city is buzzing with energy and creativity, so it felt like the perfect backdrop for capturing an active, dynamic lifestyle. We moved through the city streets and ended up in Central Park, blending the liveliness of the city with the serenity of nature. The idea was to highlight how wellness can fit seamlessly into a busy lifestyle, no matter where you are.

Are there any other funny anecdotes you can share about this shoot?
Shooting in NYC was definitely an adventure! We turned it into an impromptu workout—walking, climbing, and exploring different locations. By the end, we had trekked all over the city, which was both exhilarating and a true testament to the active energy we wanted to capture.

Do you have a morning routine that you swear by?
Absolutely! My morning routine grounds me for the day ahead. I start around 6:30 am with water and devotional time to focus my mind. By 7:30, I’ve moved on to skincare and a quick freshen-up. Then, I make three essential drinks—collagen, super greens, and coffee—before taking a brief morning walk. Around 8:30, I review my tasks for the day and always make sure to call my mom for a quick chat before diving into work.

Was health and fitness important to you growing up, and how has your fitness philosophy changed over the years?
Health became a priority for me after losing my father to a sudden heart attack at just 42. Since then, I’ve committed to maintaining a balanced and heart-healthy lifestyle. Now, I focus not just on physical fitness, but on creating overall longevity—taking care of my heart, lungs, and mind through cardio, clean eating, and reading.

Talk us through your weekly training split.
I love variety in my routine! Typically, I cycle twice a week for cardio and focus on full-body toning twice a week. I also dedicate one day to core training, usually paired with a cycling day for a well-rounded workout.

How do you stay motivated on days when you don’t feel like working out?
When motivation fades, I focus on discipline. I remind myself that keeping my word to myself is the foundation of personal trust and growth. Meditating on my goals helps me push through, and I know that the effort I put in today will pay off tomorrow.

If you’re not in activewear at the gym, where can we find you and what are you most likely to be doing?
When I’m not at the gym, I’m most likely creating new fragrances for my home fragrance brand, Chandié, or preparing for my next big pageant competition, Miss Grand International by doing photoshoots, media training and performance refinement. You might also find me journaling or working on new creative projects.

We live in an age of social media where people have more access than ever to our lives and are quick to judge. How do you handle negative comments or criticism online and in real life?
A mentor once told me, “If you live for their compliments, you’ll die by their criticism,” and that’s stuck with me. I’ve learned to remain neutral—whether the feedback is positive or negative. It’s all part of the journey, but staying grounded is key.

What self-care strategies do you use to maintain positive mental health?
For me, it starts with prayer and reading my Bible. That time of connection and reflection fuels me like nothing else. It helps me realign and refocus, keeping my mental and emotional health in check.

What’s a fitness myth that you wish would go away, and why?
The myth that everyone wants to or needs to lift heavy weights. Fitness is personal, and I focus on toning and cardio rather than heavy lifting because it suits the look and lifestyle I want.

What is your approach to nutrition? How do you maintain balance and still enjoy your favorite foods?
I love clean, whole foods, so staying healthy feels more like a joy than a task. I listen to my body and practice mindful eating, which allows me to enjoy my favorite foods without overindulging. Balance is all about knowing when to say “yes” and when to say “no.”

What’s your go-to treat?
Crispy rice—hands down! It’s a simple yet satisfying treat.

Who inspires you?
Olivia Culpo. I resonate deeply with her journey in pageantry and how she has built an incredible career by maximizing her talents and creating opportunities beyond the crown.

You’re working out in the gym – what are you listening to?
Travis Scott or Don Toliver. Their energy keeps me moving and motivated.

Reflecting on your whole journey to date, what are you most proud of – personally or professionally?
I’m most proud of the woman I’ve become—strong, compassionate, and ever-evolving. Learning to give myself grace while still pushing for growth has been my greatest achievement.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Prioritise intimacy with God. It’s the foundation for everything else in my life.

What’s next for you?
After over a decade in pageantry, I’ll be representing the USA at the Miss Grand International competition this October in Thailand. It’s an honor and a dream come true to compete on such a prestigious international stage.

STATUS UPDATE

FULL NAME: Cora Griffen
HOMETOWN: Columbus, GA
BORN: 1996
INSTAGRAM: coralynng
TikTok: coragriffen

For the full article grab the October/November 2024 issue of Women’s Fitness Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.