THE BOOK
Meet Bella!
She's a Yorkie with a big heart, living in a cozy city apartment! Bella loves sharing tips for healthy living with all of her friends—encouraging outdoor play, fun exercise, and tasty snacks like fruits, veggies, and blueberry banana muffins. Bella believes in the magic of friendship, outdoor play, and good sportsmanship, and inspires kids to live joyful, active lives!
THE KIDS
Meet Bella's Friends!
Bella’s adventures wouldn’t be the same without her amazing friends by her side. From playful pals to supportive sidekicks, each character brings their own unique energy and charm to Bella’s journey. Get to know the fun crew Bella teaches to stay active, learn new skills, and have a blast along the way!
Hello,
Marcy!
Marcy is Bella’s creative friend who loves making paper flowers, especially roses, daisies, and tulips. When she enters a craft contest, Bella’s support helps Marcy bring her creative dreams to life!
Nice to meet you,
Jimmy!
Jimmy is Bella’s fun-loving friend who enjoys video games but isn’t a fan of the park. With Bella’s encouragement, he discovers a new way to have fun beyond the screen!
Hi there,
Lucy!
Lucy is Bella’s sweet friend who loves to play but often misses out due to tummy aches. With Bella’s help, she discovers healthy foods that make her feel better and ready for fun again!
THE ARTIST
Elizabeth Josephine
Elizabeth Josephine is a self-taught artist, born and raised in Chicago. Her childhood passion for art and nineteen years working with various artistic mediums inspired her to pursue a career in illustration. Visit her website at PhineArtistry.com.
THE AUTHOR
Maria Rigo
Maria Bares Rigo is a health coach, mother, and grandmother who divides her time between the Chicago suburbs and Carmel, Indiana. With twenty-five years of experience as a personal trainer, MELT practitioner, and Pilates instructor, she is passionate about helping clients build healthy, sustainable habits throughout their lives—including menopause and beyond. Recognizing the need for wellness education among children, Bares Rigo was inspired by her rescue Yorkie, Bella, to teach young kids the basics of healthy living: outdoor play, balanced nutrition, limited screen time, and making healthy habits fun and accessible through her stories. Visit her website at BoundlessBalance.com.
Bella's Mission
Eating healthy and staying active helps kids build strong bodies, boost energy, and improve focus. Developing these habits early sets the foundation for lifelong health and confidence. Bella the Fitness Pup encourages kids to make healthy choices and have fun while doing it!
TESTIMONIALS
Love for the book!
Silas, Age 4
"I love to run and play like those kids! Bella is a really cute puppy, and I want to be her friend, too!"
David Labotka, M.D
“Bella exudes joy and movement. She reminds children that fun can come from simple, healthful habits. Every page made me smile.”
Jennifer Westrick, librarian, MSLIS
“Children will want to join Bella as she romps and plays. Healthy habits are started at an early age, and Bella shows us how easy—and fun—that can be!”
LET'S PLAY!
Activities, Recipes, Games, & More!
Join Bella's Club for even more fun! Explore members-only pages for exciting activities like coloring pages, games, activities, and tasty, healthy recipes. New content is added regularly, so be sure to follow and subscribe to stay updated on all the latest adventures!
Bella's Club Goodies
When you sign up for Bella's Club, you can enjoy FREE access to these fun, healthy goodies for adults and kids alike!
Healthy Recipes
Sign up to discover fun, kid-friendly recipes that make healthy eating exciting! From tasty snacks to nutritious meals, Bella helps little chefs fuel their bodies and minds.
Coloring Pages
Sign up and unleash creativity with adorable, printable coloring pages featuring Bella and her friends. Perfect for sparking imagination and adding a splash of fun!
Fun Activities
Sign up and get moving with engaging activities that promote fitness and wellness. Bella’s adventures inspire kids to stay active while having a blast!