Healthy LivingY StoriesYMCA Health and Fitness

How Eric learned to keep his stress in check

02 November 2016 - by YMCA of Greater Toronto
Eric has had a long, complicated journey towards living the healthy lifestyle he’s always wanted, including having his initial efforts frustrated by illness and surgery. Personal trainer Kris helped Eric get back on track after his lengthy recovery, and taught him how to use his workouts as time outs from the stress of his demanding job. Here’s Eric’s Y Story:

I started going to the Oshawa Y back in 2004, when my doctor told me I needed to start trying to get in shape. But about six years ago, I got sick and needed surgery. Recovery took a long time, so I wasn’t ready to get back to the gym for several months. By the time it was safe for me to start working out again, I felt unmotivated and out of step with my old workout routine. I decided to get a personal trainer to show me how to use the machines, give me some new exercises to do, and help me rebuild some healthy habits.

A staff member matched me with Kris, and I was able to have my consultation with him the very same day. Based on that initial assessment, Kris built a plan for me that we’d follow to get me back to where I wanted to be.

My favourite part about working out with Kris is the great rapport we have. I started to actually look forward to heading to the gym because I knew I’d get to see Kris, who’s so much more than just my trainer; he’s also become a close friend. Connecting with Kris has helped my workouts become great stress-reducers. I have a very demanding job that can feel overwhelming at times, and working out with Kris allows me to unwind, recharge, and take a break from the chaos.

Kris has been my personal trainer for years now. He helps keep me motivated and on track, which is important to me because I want to be healthy and fit for life. To keep me from getting bored and straying from my routine, Kris is always challenging me to try new machines and exercises. He’s taught me a ton of stuff I never would have learned if I’d just kept working out alone.

Having Kris as my personal trainer has made a huge difference in my life. I’m very grateful to him for helping me accomplish my goals of getting active and healthy when I wasn’t sure where to start. I know I’ll continue to work out and use my time with Kris to stay grounded and keep my stress under control.

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