Tell us about your role at C-LIFE, how long have you been here for, and what is your favourite part of your job?
It’s been 17 years since starting at the then Canterbury Health Club and it’s been so much more than a job for me. I’ve worked across all aspects of the business and the motivation has always been offering a service and environment that can make a difference in someone’s life. When starting a fulltime position elsewhere 4 years ago, I continued teaching Pilates Mat but now it’s great to be back offering more classes and personal training in January.
How did you get into the health and fitness industry?
I’ve always loved being active and had an interest in human anatomy, physiology and health. It led me to complete a Sport and Exercise Science degree and Masters in Public Health.
What motivates you to be healthy and active?
My motivation has greatly changed throughout the years. I had the pleasure of working with an older adult population for 4 years and it taught me a lot. Now many of my decisions around health and lifestyle are made on how it will serve me well today and for many years to come. I want to be fit, well and living independently in my old age.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
I love being outdoors – rain, hail or shine.
What is your favourite post-workout meal?
The daily grind doesn’t always allow for a post workout meal, I just make sure I have an even spread of protein throughout the day. I find it very hard not to get a coffee on my way out though!
What is your favourite form of exercise?
I find the endorphins from running addictive but try to balance out aerobic and strength training through the week. But my true love is Pilates. Studying the classical Pilates method was the best thing that happened to my body. It has changed the way I feel in my skin and keeps old injuries and niggles under control.
What advice can you give to those who are just starting exercise or starting to get back into exercise?
Know why you’re doing it. Exercise isn’t easy! It requires you to push yourself to do uncomfortable physical things and it’s so much easier to put it off until tomorrow. Understanding YOUR why and knowing that the small increments of effort will take you to a completely different place in weeks, months and years to come. Choose something you enjoy and don’t be afraid to find out what you are capable of.
What made you decide to be a group fitness instructor?
Group exercise is a great way to work out in a supportive environment with structure and guidance. Personal training is not an option for everyone and going it alone can be daunting or inefficient so it’s a way of reaching the masses and spreading my knowledge and love for movement.
Tell us something we do not know about you
Hmmm, I’m not sure! I’ll leave this as a challenge for members to ask me something they’d like to know.
