From camp counsellor to personal trainer: Aaron’s journey at the YMCA

 

To say Aaron’s worn many hats at the YMCA would be a massive understatement. From child care to camp to health & fitness, he’s made his mark on countless community members who rely on YMCA programs and services. Here’s how Aaron’s journey with us unfolded:

I always wanted to be part of the YMCA. Whether they’re working there as a staff or working out there as a member, you can tell everyone at the Y feels part of a community. So in 2014 when I landed a role with the Play ON team, I was ecstatic.

I got to spend my time with kids as young as six to teens up to 14, helping them stay active (and occupied!) in the afternoons after school. I loved every second of it. Having four younger brothers definitely helped prepare me!

When the season was wrapping up and my position was coming to an end, my boss told me about a YMCA camp that was looking for a sports counsellor. For the second time, I couldn’t believe how lucky I was: I got to spend my days playing sports I loved with kids who reminded me of my little brothers. I was even given an award for being the Strongest Counsellor.

I loved working with kids, but I started to get really interested in the Y’s Health & Fitness programs. So I made a big move that helped get me where I wanted to be: I completed 500 hours of volunteering at the Scarborough YMCA. I got to make connections with so many amazing people and learned so much about the Y as a charity.

And it certainly paid off! I eventually got a position on the Individual Conditioning team at the Cooper Koo YMCA when it first opened, gaining tons of useful experience. I started studying hard and eventually, I got certified as a personal trainer. I started teaching Bootcamp classes, leading small group training sessions, and doing one-on-one personal training.

This is exactly where I wanted to be — I enjoy every minute of my work.

Aaron is one of our Sweat For Good Ambassadors: a community member who stands behind all the social good the Y makes possible. See him in action in our Sweat For Good video, and get a glimpse of his personal training style in our video about tackling your goals.