No, I didn't spend heaps getting ripped off, I went to the library and got a couple of basic books, one on fitness and one on healthy eating. From there my journey began, and it was a long and winding one, that has literally taken me up mountains and down glens, and over 200km across sub arctic Finland in a canoe (more about that here), all a part of obtaining a B. Sc. in Health, Fitness & Leisure from ITTralee, which includes personal training and fitness class instruction. It also provided the opportunity to train as a HSE 'Being Well' tutor (stress, nutrition, exercise & lifestyle design).
There was blood, tears (judo injuries) & sweat by the bucket load along the way, but looking back on it all there is very little I would change. I've come to realise, that when sufficiently motivated, I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. I demolished my food demons after being heavily overweight for about 12 years. I've successfully quit smoking after a 10+ year habit. I've been there.
That's why I can help. I understand exactly how how difficult it is to make permanent positive changes in our own lives. But it is possible, and the sense of achievement at making changes which can be sustained is tremendous.
After more than 6 years working in a hotel gym in Tralee, I finally pushed myself to get out of my comfort zone, and start working for myself. And like making any big change in life, at times it can be intimidating, mistakes will be made along the way, adjustments made and challenges faced. In many respects, starting your own business is a lot like making the decision to take action on your weight. The keys to both? Being persistent, learn from the mistakes, and reaching out for help when you need it.
Personally, I think it's important to find a balance between the things in life which enhance health, such as walking or going to the gym, and the habits we have developed that are causing us harm, such as excessive stress, smoking or over consumption of processed food.
As someone close to me once said...
"Get the balance right."Everyones ideal balance will be unique to them. For me, it's a mixture of active pursuits (such as surfing, slacklining, and circus skills), with not so active ones (watching movies, playing xbox and reading books); A mix of tasty, healthy meals and snacks, with occasional death by chocolate. My balance is about 85% angel & 15% demon, or well behaved 6 days out of 7.
What does your balance look like?
