February Member of the Month: Wendy Volkart

How long have you been a member? I have been a member for 3 years.

What are your hobbies? I enjoy being outdoors – cross country skiing, skating, canoeing, hiking, cycling, etc.  Other hobbies include: bird watching, reading, travelling.

What is your greatest fitness achievement? My husband and I completed the Royal Victorian half-marathon in the fall of 2007.  Although he is a marathon runner, he good-heartedly agreed to support me in achieving this goal.

How do you stay motivated to exercise regularly? Originally I was blessed with a dear friend who was totally committed to health.  I watched her age with grace and beauty and I felt inspired by her unfailing commitment to regular physical activity.  She became my exercise partner and eventually a regular exercise program became part of my routine.  I currently work in a job where I am exposed to the impact of poor health on quality of life.  I believe that good health is one of our most precious assets.  The combination of these two influences in my life continues to motivate me to make regular exercise a ‘must’.  In addition, I enjoy immensely the ‘good feeling’ that accompanies a good workout!!

How do you feel now compared to when you first joined the club? Being part of a fitness club has provided me with opportunities to learn new exercise routines.  It has provided me with a ‘space’ where I can exercise regardless of weather.

What is your outlook for the future? Exercise will always be a regular part of my life.  With a strong fit body, I believe I will be able to pursue my dreams well into retirement.

January Member of the Month: Jennifer MacNeil

How long have you been a member?
I have been a member since 2003.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy spending time with my husband and 2 kids, rollerblading, going to the gym, horseback riding, and going to the dog park with my 2 dogs.
What is your greatest fitness achievement?
My greatest fitness achievement is losing those 20 pounds after having my baby boy 3 months ago, and also being able to stay motivated enough to make it to the gym 4 to 5times per week.
How do you stay motivated to exercise regularly?
I set a schedule and started going to step classes (which are so much fun!), and I also keep a work out journal.
How do you feel now compared to when you first joined the club?
I feel great about myself now, I am healthier and I can lift larger weights and can do more intense cardio. I also feel more comfortable with equipment thanks to the trainers at the gym.
What is your outlook for the future?
I hope to stay motivated and keep fitness a part of my everyday routine. I am going to be in a wedding party April 2010 and I want to reach my goal weight and measurements by then.

 

 

December Member of the Month: Lorraine Zoskey

How long have you been a member?
I'm not really sure think that it has been at least ten plus years. I have been a member of Studio Pilates for just about the same amount of time.
What are your hobbies?
In my spare time I like to read and making cards. I also love to shop especially for new shoes.
What is your greatest fitness achievement?
Over the years I've been pleased with many of my fitness achievements. I learned to swim at the age of thirty which is surprising to some people considering I grew up next to the water in Newfoundland. Over the past five years I've completed 2 Harvest Runs, participated in the Run for Canada twice which is a 10km run, as well I completed the Woody's Half Marathon.
How do you stay motivated to exercise regularly?
Fitness is now just a part of my life that I really don't consider it exercise. I have been doing two Pilates sessions and two yoga classes a week for the past six years, that it is just something that I do. Just like having to get up each morning to go to work. I like to start my day with a workout on the treadmill and a short yoga workout. My job can be stressful so a few years ago I started walking on my lunch break to help break up the day and then I workout in the evenings at the studio. I also love to eat chocolate so I have to work some of it off.
How do you feel now compared to when you first joined the club?
I think that I'm in the best shape now then I have ever been in my life and I'm not getting any younger.
What is your outlook for the future?
Well I'm approaching another milestone birthday in six months so I'm just hoping to remain healthy and fit. I believe in the motto that we have at the club that fitness is a journey not a destination. Exercise has to be a part of your life and you owe it to yourself to find the time to participate in whatever activity you enjoy.