Rising Phoenix Transformations
About
Growing up with asthma, chronic depression and anxiety I never led a very active or any type of healthy lifestyle. I played basketball for many years and while I was tall enough to make a decent forward, I never had the mental or physical endurance to keep up with everyone else. Once basketball was over for me I used my asthma as an excuse to continue being inactive and unfit, which of course added to my already existing mental health issues. Years had gone by and I found myself in a very deep and dark bottom with no hope in sight. I was bound by my own mind and my body was suffering for it.
In 2012 I was put into a position where living the way I was simply wasn't an option any longer, something had to change and that something was me. It was a constant struggle but I slowly became more active, little by little making very slow progress but progress nonetheless. By the time 2013 rolled around I started to realize that a lot of the symptoms of my asthma had been outgrown and now had become a matter of disuse instead. I met an individual who introduced me to Tai Chi and kickboxing. We explored meditation and Yoga, philosophy and the mind-body connection. This is where my journey took an unexpected turn in the best way imaginable. I struggled for a while but as time went by my mind began to open and my body followed suit; I began to feel better. Though I still struggled my breathing got easier, my depression began to subside and my anxiety started to diminish. For all of 2015 I trained under this individual constantly trying to push myself to learn more and train harder, feeling the benefits on my mind and body time and time again.
In February of 2016 I was asked to step up into the position as President and lead instructor of an institutional program known as the Yoga Fitness Club (YFC). This is the first opportunity I was given to pass along what was so freely given to me, the first experience I had as an instructor and it was an amazing one at that. I continued in these positions for the remainder of 2016 and into 2017. At the end of 2016 I was asked to join the board as secretary of another organization called Healthy Heart Fitness Program (HHFP). Eventually I was given the opportunity to lead group cardio sessions as well. Early to Mid 2017 another board member and myself led a project introducing a Yoga fitness class into the HHFP which is where I focused my attention for the remainder of 2017 as an instructor. I am no longer a direct part of either of these programs but my successor and I keep in regular contact and I am grateful to hear the Yoga fitness class is still a hit and people are still benefitting from it.
My interactions and experiences have led me to right where I am today, right where I need to be. Health and fitness have given me a life worth living, a life I can value and appreciate; a life free from constant misery and self bondage; a life full of joy and happiness, peace and connection. This is my passion, what I am driven to do. To me this is more than just about making a living, this is a living. I have a desire to help and motivate, to teach and guide, to play any role I can in another's life to help them grow and succeed, to challenge themselves and overcome. This is what I love and I am dedicated to it on every level.
Today, through ISSA, I am a certified fitness trainer (CFT), but it will not stop there for me. I am committed to continuing my education, to gaining the knowledge and experience needed to ensure that my clients are getting the most out of me that they possibly can because you deserve the best.
There are many aspects about the work I do that I enjoy. One of those things that always comes to mind first is that I don't just get to watch others learn and grow, I get to be a part of their journey helping them along the way. It is an amazing experience seeing someone begin to realize their true potential and then watching as that realization creates passion. I wouldn't want to do anything else in life if I don't get to help others discover what they love, learn to love themselves, find their confidence, and have fun along the way.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Consultation is free. We will need to set aside about 1 hr. to go over some paperwork and get to know each other a little bit. The more I know about you the better I am able to coach you. The better you know me the more comfortable you will be following my guidance. This is a team effort so I firmly believe in team building.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a certified fitness trainer through ISSA (international sports science association).
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
For private boxing lessons prices begin at $25 per half hour.
For private personal training prices begin typically begin at $40 an hour.
However, everything is based off individual needs and goals therefore my rates are standard but subject to change. This is something we discuss during the consultation.
How did you get started teaching?
Fitness has literally changed my life. It started when I was in a position of mental, physical, and spiritual struggle. I lacked confidence and any sort of good self-image, I was out of shape and depressed about it. I was down and out and in a bad place most of life. I found my fitness through a very slow process at first but once it got going It really took off. Eventually it led to me teaching yoga for two years and a year of group fitness training. During this time I developed a passion to not only develop my own self but to pass it on and help others find what they are seeking as well. So today it's about challenging limits, overcoming lifes obstacles and living life to the fullest.
What types of students have you worked with?
Overweight; diabetics; clients with thyroid problems; asthmatics; recovering addicts; seniors; beginners, intermediate, and advanced levels. A decent variety of individuals.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently completed an Obstacle Course Race that was absolutely amazing. I am beginning to open availability to train those who want to compete in or even just enter these types of events for fun.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find someone who you click with, someone who inspires you to be the person you want to be. The knowledge can be found anywhere; it's the environment, the energy and the way that the information is passed on and applied that will matter.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
How much work am I willing to put in to get what I want out of it. So much comes down to mindset and regardless, that's where it starts. What are you willing to do to get where you want to be?