What got you into teaching fitness? I have never been a super fit person however I do enjoy doing stuff. Be that outdoor adventures, fitness classes, biking or walking. In 2005 I was running my own online business however I realised that I missed working with people. So got qualified as an advanced fitness instructor personal trainer and exercise to music instructor.....and now can help others keep fit and well so that they can enjoy doing stuff too.
How long have you been teaching? I started teaching when the family moved from London up to Penrith back in 2005. My first job was at The North Lakes Hotel. I then worked for Newton Rigg and started doing classes in Village Halls plus personal training in homes. My longest running class is Get Fit 4 Life, Langwathby that has been running since 2006.
What qualifications do you have?
Since my initial qualifications which included gym instruction, exercise to music and nutrition I have continued my knowledge base with specialisations in exercise and ageing, neurlogical conditions, pre/post natal, and childrens fitness. I am also qualified to instruct spinning, nordic walking, ski/trek fitness, boxercise, kickboxercise and primal flow. More importantly though is the 17+ years of experience, that has enabled me to find what really works and how I can help others.
How would you describe your classes? My classes are fun and suitable for a broad range of fitness levels. They are not the hardest or easiest that you can find however I am very keen on teaching technique so whatever your ability you can get the most from each and every exercise. We have a laugh and catch up. The classes are really friendly.
What type of person comes to your sessions?
Normal people. I say that because it has been said more than once that "I like your classes because normal people come. Not body beautiful people. Normal people like you." I have taken that comment the right way and am pleased that participants feel comfortable with those who attend.
What is the hardest thing about your job? Deciding that a class needs to be cancelled either with weather conditions or because numbers have been consistently low for a while. I have a very loyal class following which I want to please however have to remember it is a business.
What is the best thing about your job? Hearing how my expertise has helped someone. Be that in confidence, fitness or mental health. Over the years people who I have helped have, to name a few, reversed their Type II diabetes, felt more confident and reduced back pain.
What is your ideal job? What I do now. It fits around the family and is rewarding. For me success is not about money but about helping as many people as I can. To feel valued for my time, energy and heart.
I hope this gives you a bit of background about who I am and what the sessions are like.
If you want to know more then please ask. I do love a question.