I enjoy training, swimming, spending time with family and friends. I’m a Fitness Instructor for Active Swansea. I work at Penlan Leisure Centre in Swansea. |
As a fitness instructor, what classes do you teach?
Zumba; dancing to great music, with great people whilst burning calories. Rebound, it’s a class on mini trampolines. It is a high intensity, low impact class – good fun and burns loads of calories! I also teach Group Cycling great for increasing fitness and burning calories.
Which classes are popular at the moment?
If I had to pick one though I would say Circuits.
What made you decide to become to be a fitness instructor?
I’ve always enjoyed exercise, my father used to use gyms everyday and was big on weight training. The importance of looking after yourself came from him. I used to do dumbells in the house and have a bit of dance around for my cardio (laughs). I started working in leisure as a lifeguard and used to attend the aerobics classes. It was then I decided I wanted to become a ‘Exercise To Music’ Instructor.
How long have you been doing this and why do you love it?
I’ve been a class instructor for 12 years and a gym/fitness instructor for at least 9. It’s very rewarding to know that you can help people feel better about themselves.
What’s the most physically challenging class you teach?
Rebound, it makes me sweat buckets I love it!
When do you find people are most motivated?
After Christmas and when they’re about to go on their summer holiday.
What’s the funniest & most rewarding thing that’s ever happened at work?
Funny? Falling over in a class and on another occasion my trousers split at the back. Rewarding – seeing customers enjoying my classes.
Do you give advice in class?
Very important! You can’t out- train a bad diet!
How do you keep a group motivated in class?
Giving 110%, smiling and having a sing-song to the music, they like that.
When people join your classes what benefits will they see?
Increased cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance and fat loss.
What classes would you recommend for weight loss and toning?
Most of them!
What are your personal fitness goals and achievements?
Toned stomach.
Can anyone come along and achieve a six pack/ perfect 8 or is it really hard?
Getting a 6 pack is extremely hard work and requires a lot of dedication, motivation and self-discipline. It won’t happen overnight!
What 3 words sum up your classes?
Fun, energetic and motivating.
Have you got any nutrition and health tips you can share?
Everyone should aim for a well balanced diet. Faddy crash diets may not provide the balance of nutrients you need. Also plenty of water don’t mistake thirst for hunger.
What’s your message to people who thinking of joining up?
If they’re already thinking about it, they must want to change, they have to make that step and we will be ready to help.
Where is your fave place to train outdoors in Swansea?
If I get a Sunday off with my partner I like to take walks around the Gower its beautiful. I also like to visit Kilvey Hill when I can, if you have never been up there you should! Other than that sadly I usually train indoors.
What do most people come to a class in search of?
Weight loss is most popular.
What are your personal goals right now?
I try and do around 30 mins a day at a moderate intensity, usually walking/ x-trainer or bike and some light weights.
Silly question but why should people lead active lifestyles?
To help you lead a longer, healthier life!
This post is also available in: Welsh