About Me
My fitness journey started in March 1998, when I purchased Bodies By Choice from two people who became my role models and inspired me more than they will ever know, Mike and Joyce Woodward. I wouldn't be where I am today without them. They built up a great business and taught me the "ins" and the "outs" of bodybuilding, dieting, and running a gym!
1998 - Certified Strength Trainer from Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation
2000 - Certified Personal Training Certificate from Mount Royal College in Calgary, AB
2000 - Certified Fitness Consultant ( CFC ) from Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology
2001 - Certified Nutrition and Wellness Specialist from Can Fit Pro
2001 - Certified Personal Trainer from Can Fit Pro
I competed in the 2000 Southern Saskatchewan Bodybuilding Competition in Moose Jaw, where I took first place in the Women's Class and also placed first as Best Female Poser!
I operated Bodies By Choice for 5 years and sold it in June 2003, to the fabulous Arlene Helgason, who still operates it.
I moved to Prince Albert in June 2003 and started personal training at Bravo for Women. Thanks to the amazing ladies at Bravo, and Heather Bravo, my business grew and GREW! At Bravo, I started a Biggest Loser Challenge thanks to the advice of a friend and client, Laurie Fehr. She had watched the television show and wanted to do it too, so we did! Since March 2004, I have guided hundreds of women ( and 1 man! ) through the Biggest Loser Challenge / 12 week body transformation program.
In February 2006, I flew to Whistler, BC to meet Buddy Lee and complete his Jump Rope Certification - Level 1 Training through the Buddy Lee Jump Rope Institute. I instantly became a fan of Buddy and the Buddy Lee jump ropes which I LOVE and currently sell in my studio.
I love training clients in their home and showing them a great workout with minimal equipment such as the ball or a trx. So many people think they need expensive machines to get a workout! It is incredible AND HARD to do a workout with only your body!
In July 2007, I began my journey with Bikini Boot Camp. Bikini Boot Camp is a Calgary based company with amazing owners and trainers! See Bikini Bootcamp at www.bikinibootcamp.ca for more information.
August 2007, I obtained my Pre-Natal and Post-Natal Fitness Specialist certification from Can Fit Pro. I currently teach Mom and Baby Boot Camps inside at Physio Fit in Prince Albert, Sk. It is a great facility and is "kid" friendly. Kids can play while the moms get to exercise. It is so much fun!
I graduated from NAIT in Edmonton, Alberta and received my Personal Trainer Diploma in October 2010.
In September 2011, Fit Chick was born! I currently instruct 9 fitness classes a week and LOVE it!! I cannot imagine a job that is more enjoyable or fun than what I do now. Life is good:)
I am grateful for all the amazing people that inspire me and allow me to have the most AWESOME job EVER!!! Have a great winterl!! I look forward to meeting and working with you in the future!
Happy Training!
Mel