Why did you decide to pursue personal training?

Looking back, I can say fitness saved my life. I experienced many ups and downs in life and fitness has been the one thing that has always gotten me through. When I first started working out, it was clear that this was something I would be doing for the rest of my life. It wasn’t until later in my fitness journey that I decided to pursue personal training. I would always find myself having conversations everyone about working out and how much value it can add to your life. So, I decided to get my certification with the hopes of helping others reach the best version of themselves through fitness.

What would you want someone to know who is considering personal training?

Personal training is more than helping someone get in physical shape or staying active. It is understanding each individual and the barriers they face both in and outside of the gym. No trainer is perfect. With that said, I would say find a trainer who is always learning and practices what they preach and models what it means to be in shape not just physically but mentally.

What is your personal training philosophy?

Fitness is more than just good looks and physical strength but it is a battle against yourself. Every day you come face to face with your strengths, weaknesses, insecurities and level of confidence and belief you have within yourself. It’s both physically and mentally taxing while simultaneously being the greatest self-development and self-discovery program on the face of the earth. It is the one thing that you are held 100% responsible for. Your results come from your effort alone. You can’t buy it, steal it, borrow it or inherit it. It is a relentless journey of conquering one’s self. 

Favorite exercise?

Pullups and pushups. Both of these exercises are a constant staple in my daily routine. Push ups are what I consider my first love. It was the very first exercise I started doing to become stronger. However, pull ups on the other hand was my biggest challenge and overtime became one of my favorites because it's simple, effective and can be done just about anywhere.  

Biggest food temptation?

Any type of warm dessert (cookie, cakes, brownies, etc) with ice cream. The combination of warm and cold is something special.