When did you first get involved in fitness?
I began running and participating in aerobic classes when I was in my 20’s, primarily because I wanted to look good. I soon realized it made me feel good too. Exercise helped me with sleep and the stress of my career as a chemist.
What inspired you to start a career in fitness?
I began teaching aerobic classes in order to earn a little extra money and get a free membership at a local gym. I realized I was good with people and really cared about the quality of classes that I was teaching. I wanted classes that welcomed everyone not just the young and fit. Wherever I taught I tried to get the gym to offer classes for beginners. Because I started teaching at a time that certifications were not required, I saw lots of unsafe and poor quality classes. This led me to read as much as possible about fitness and choose to get an ACE Group Fitness Certification.
I continued to teach fitness classes wherever I lived. Then after I decided I no longer wanted to work as a chemist and tried my hand at some small businesses outside the fitness field, I decided to open Curves. Curves had an excellent program for women new to fitness or women uncomfortable in a gym setting. This was just the group that I liked to work with. While I had Curves, I studied and received my ACE Personal Training certification and then my ACE Health Coach Certification.
What do you like most about the classes you are teaching now?
Most of my classes now and most of my personal training clients are 50+. I think this group is most appreciative. They are more focused on their health and well-being rather than on their looks. I am always thrilled when a student or client tells me the benefits they are seeing after just a few sessions. I look forward to every one of my classes and seeing every one of my clients!
What is your favorite workout to do on your own?
Because I have my own studio above our garage, I work out up there. I usually ride the elliptical doing intervals and then resistance work with free weights or elastic tubing. Sometimes I walk or run the neighborhood. If time allows, I attend a yoga or pilates class.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I guess that depends on the time of year. If weather permits, I like to be outdoors working in the yard. If you want to find me on weekends in the spring, just drive by and look in the yard. I also love antique/junk shopping which is visible by the eclectic yard art. During the cold, dreary winter days, I read, work jigsaw puzzles, and make or fix jewelry. Once or twice a year, my husband and I travel. We enjoy visiting places that involve hiking, history, and culture.
Which client/student has inspired you most?
All my students/clients inspire me for different reasons. I think I have learned just as much from them as they have from me.
By: Janet Hunt
Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment.
