When asked why she wants to share her story, here is what she said:
“I want to share my story because I remember the feeling of hating my body and feeling like looking and feeling strong and fit were unattainable after having children and putting on some pounds. Slowly but surely I stuck with it and built confidence and I’m finally able to see how far I’ve come. I want to inspire and encourage anyone on the fence about taking control of their fitness to do it!!! you won’t regret starting right now!”
Nina’s story:
How long have you had a regular exercise routine?
I’ve been working out regularly/lifting weights for about 3 years now, but have just gotten more serious and focused this past year, combining a specific strength and endurance routine with healthy eating and reduced calories.
How old were you when you started?
I was 36 when I started weightlifting regularly.
How old are you now?
39
How many days per week do you go to the gym for your workouts?
I go the gym about 4x per week. It works well – I drop the kids off at school and I’m at the gym by 8:45 am, work out for an hour, head home for a shower and then get to my work for 11!
How long is your average workout session?
About 1 hour
Did a coach or a personal trainer help you develop your exercise routine? If not, how did you learn it? If so, how long did you work with a coach or personal trainer before you felt ready to branch out on your own?
I was kind of self taught in my fitness over the years, but when I decided to get serious, Jo-Jeff really showed me the ropes and got me hooked on weights! Having a trainer really helped me to get confident in the gym, probably within a couple weeks I’d say. It was also great to be accountable to someone and to have his encouragement. I worked with Joe many times for about a year and he’s since become a good friend!
What would you say the benefits are to having a regular exercise routine?
Number one for me is feeling strong and capable in the gym and outside of it as well. My weight training has made so many other aspects of my life easier – keeping up with my kids, hiking, moving anything heavy, having stamina. Secondly would be that it’s good for my mental health.
It gives focus, a daily goal and satisfaction when I complete what I set out to do. It also feels good to see my strength and abilities progressing. Aches and pains that i used to have chronically have disappeared as i’ve become stronger as well. Also, the social aspect is lovely. I like seeing the people in the gym every morning – everyone is happy and respectful.
What are the biggest challenges to maintaining that regular routine?
For me, it’s changes in external routine that affect my gym routine. Holidays, kid’s school schedule changes – anything that interrupts my regular schedule.
What advice would you give to someone to help them overcome the challenges of maintaining a regular routine?
Get some sort of program to follow and track your progress. Follow fitness people who inspire you on instagram and immerse yourself in the culture of fitness. Remember that it’s not just something to get to an end goal – it’s an ongoing life thing that you keep doing whether you’re seeing the results you want or not. It’s good for you no matter what.
If someone wants to get started, but doesn’t know how to, what would you say to that person?
I’d say, spend time with a trainer to learn how to do things properly and confidently. Learn about it and keep practicing!
What is your favorite exercise? Why?
I love squats, and skipping. Squats are where I’ve seen the most progress in my strength and confidence. I feel powerful and fierce when I step up to the rack. Not to mention they’ve completley changed the shape of my legs and butt! My butt has never been so perky! My legs are curvy and strong now and they used to be the part of me I never really liked.
Skipping is a nice way to start my workout with cardio and i find it very meditative. When I started I couldn’t even skip for a minute, now I do 10-15 minutes with ease.
How do you feel about continuing to workout at the Gabriola FItness Centre during the global pandemic of Covid-19?
I am totally confident with the steps that GFC has implemented to protect our safety. Everything is organized, kept clean and well-spaced out.
