Having been an active child and teen with ringette, hockey, soccer, basketball, rugby, skiing and badminton I developed a comeptitive spirit that had stuck with me throughout my adult years...I hate to lose and I have to be the best! In college I went to the gym, I took step aerobics, I continued to play ringette and hockey...but the cometitiveness faded...for everyone else. I joined the ski patrol in hopes of skiing more often but it wasnt' enough, I needed something more.
When I started running I hated it...really hated it. I couldn't go for long and I had pains everywhere afterwards. My average distance was about 2Km and I remember having a couple pairs of running socks, one pair of shorts, one pair of tights and a couple dry-fit shirts...
My friend Rena and I decided to run the Ottawa Race Weekend 5Km...it was an amazing feeling to cross the finshline with the crowds, the race numbers, the finishers medals and a new passion. Running has always been about me. I race against myself and my own previous times.
It became obvious to me that running wouldn't be enough...there was this all women's triathlon...untimed, just for fun...ofcourse I had to try it! I was hooked instantly and the rest is pretty much history!
I learned how to sport-specific train, I read anything I could get my hands on about triathlon, running, cycling or swimming, and I trained. I bought the gear, I developed my own "race day routines" (which some would call picky) and I raced in every race I was able to. Eventually that wasn't enough either, recreation just wasn't going to cut it...but going pro seemed unrealistic, so what next?
When I finished my AFLCA Exercise Theory and Resistance Trainer course I knew someday I would have to do something with fitness as a career...but not totally sure what. When my career path wasnt' going where I wanted it to I made a decision...if the opportunity ever came up to change careers to something in the fitness industry I would take it and run.
I met some managers at Spa Lady Fitness and spoke to them about career potentials, they all liked me but I needed more credentials...almost immediately I registered to challenge the CanFit Pro exam and began studying. 5 weeks later I passed with flying colours and am now a Personal Trainer Specialist!
I absolutely LOVE my job and all my clients. I love thinking up new exercises, new workouts, and new ways to sweat...for once in my life, I know exactly where I need to be, and that's AWESOME!
So to answer my question...Where would I be without fitness???? I have no idea.
Just after a 10Km PB
You rock!!!! I wish I lived closer to you so you could kick my ass around a gym! Roller derby is helping, but I think I need to do more....
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on everything you've accomplished, Jess. You've worked really hard to be where you are. Have fun!
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