Coach Tina: We would love to know a little bit about your family.
I am a high school teacher, from Sudbury Ontario, who teaches mainly physical education/fitness. I lived in Toronto where I finished all my schooling (Humber (photography), York -Kinesiology- OISE uni of Toronto – teachers college ) moved to Ottawa 13 years ago where I began my teaching career. You can find me walking, playing competitive softball, cycling commuting, when I can, on my bike, and I’m an avid Crossfitter. Did I mention that I also own a fat bike and commute in the winter? I love paddle boarding when I get the chance, I love to travel and see new places, but also love the BEACH. I am a mother of 2 – Daughter who is 6 and a boy who is 4.
Secret Crush-
My mom- my superhero
How did you get into fitness?
I joined a gym beside my high school at the age of 16 and fell in love with strength training and exercise. Then I when to York for Kinesiology where I studied and did some personal training for a bit during my university years. That was when I decided I wanted to influence the younger generation and teach them to be fit so I went to teachers’ college – I love to teach them to lead a healthy lifestyle during and after school. Eventually, I fell in love with CrossFit 7-8 years ago and my fitness journey continues to grow!
What are your fitness goals these days?
As I get older, I realize that lifting the heaviest weight or doing RX is not as important anymore I’m more focused on just continuing to be strong and lifting weight that is challenging. Showing my kids that mommies are strong is really important to me!
I recently had a knee replacement -Jan 2020
I have an autoimmune disease that is currently in remission Rheumatoid Arthritis- I was diagnosed with RA at the age of 2 years old where my body decided to attack my left knee. 8 surgeries from the age of 13, to this recent #9 where I had the knee replaced! It has changed my life BUT it has also reminded me of what is important: staying strong and working on mobility, and doing the best I can with what I’ve got!
What does your fitness mean to you?
Being strong and independent.
Tell us about your favourite food.
I love to bake especially baking cinnamon buns 🙂 BUT ice cream is also at the top of my list
What do you love about yourself?
I love that despite my hardships with my Rheumatoid Arthritis, I would like to show my kids that I am strong and that I keep going, no matter what!
What do you love about LYB?
KATE- she is such an inspiration who hires great trainers that all are unique in what they bring to the table. Finally, it is a safe and accepting place where we LOVE OUR BODY to become strong not to look a specific way!
**From Kate: Coach Tina you are a wonderful addition to the team – I am so lucky to have you on my roster of sensational coaches!!
If you’d like to work with Coach Tina or any other members of our staff, book a free consultation with us today and get started on your health journey!