I started Ballet & Highland dancing at 7 years old after living in Scotland. At 11 I found sport aerobics, I gave up ballet when I turned 13 to take up aerobics more seriously, winning the NZCAF championships for my category in 2001 & 2003. I competed in Australia twice, the second time I placed 2nd in the Victorian Spring Challenge. I was coached by New Zealand champion & internationally ranked Erica Shalders. Since I was 16 I have choreographed & coached children aged 10-17 years old, several of whom won Regional & National events.
2004-2010
I first worked in a gym in 2004, where I started on reception & taught specialist group exercise – dance based cardio classes & school groups. I finished my exams for Highland dancing in 2005, when I also took up competing in bodybuilding events. I began with a class called shape which I represented New Zealand at in the 2005 Nabba World Championships in Greece. I moved on to trying the figure & fitness classes with different federations. In 2006 I became qualified as a Personal Trainer. I first worked at Pro-Fitness in Christchurch, before moving on to being based at smaller PT studios, and then Eastside Barbell Club where I really felt at home. I continued to coach sport aerobics which has been the strongest influence in my wanting to train other people.
I have delt with 2 knee injuries – I had an ACL reconstruction in early 09 & tore the meniscus in my other knee 2 weeks before a show in late 2010. I delayed surgery for 5 months & found ways of maintaining condition through modifying my training & diet. I won my Figure class at the NZIFBB Nationals which gave me the chance to compete at the Arnold Classic in March 2011 in Columbus, Ohio, in the US. This was an amazing experience, seeing so many high standard competitors all together & the expo was just as impressive.
2011 onwards
I am now enjoying helping others with their training towards competing & particularly enjoy working with first time competitors in classes such as “bikini”, “fitness”, “figure” or “sports model”, or anyone wanting to work on their posing, routines & stage presence – these are my strongest areas. Having just relocated to Auckland I’m not currently coaching aerobics here but will look into it for 2012 as that’s a big part of who I am. I have a novice athlete in Christchurch & I remain involved with her training.
My Personal Training business is now based at Harbour Fitness, Birkenhead in the North Shore, Auckland. I continue to work with some Christchurch clients both online & when I make trips to my home city. I also offer online personal training.
I’m planning to train towards stepping on stage again & am currently training under the guidance of Mike Debenham who is an experience trainer & IFBB Pro I’ve known since I first worked in a gym in 2004.
