canfitpro Official Magazaine | October 2025 by canfitpro

25% off Human Kinetics new releases, exclusive for canfitpro members with code CFP25!

Check out Fall’s new releases

Written for serious runners, by the duo behind the hugely successful first three editions, this edition is now in full color and includes the marathon training principles and training programs that thousands of marathon runners have used to set personal bests.

$39.95 $26.96 SALE CFP25

Renowned strength and conditioning coach Matthew S. Ibrahim equips you with the understanding, the guidance, and all the tools you need to create training programs that mirror those of today’s top competitive athletes.

$39.95 $26.96

SALE CFP25

Bodyweight Strength Training Anatomy, Second Edition, renowned trainer and bestselling author Bret Contreras has created the authoritative resource for increasing full-body strength without the need for free weights, fitness machines, or even a gym membership.

$34.95 $26.21 SALE CFP25

Benefit from over 30 years of personal training experience from Chad Landers, who has trained high-profile clients such as Duff McKagan, William Zabka, Jerry Cantrell, Stephen Perkins, and Catherine Dent. He will guide you through the physical, hormonal, and mental hurdles that trainees over age 50 encounter in their efforts to build and maintain muscle and definition.

$38.95 $29.21 SALE CFP25

Save on top Mental Health and Fitness titles and get 30% off books and ebooks with code CFP30 and 15% off CE with code CFP15 exclusive for canfitpro members!

New and Top Sellers!

Gifted: 8 Steps to Succeeding in Sport, Work, and Life will inspire you to believe in your natural gifts and achieve excellence across all aspects of your life.

$34.95 $24.47 SALE CFP30

Motivational Yoga demonstrates how the strength, balance, and stretching of the physical practice can inspire a healthy, complete, and joyous existence on and off the mat.

$52.95 $37.07 SALE CFP30

Breathe, Focus, Excel guides you through breathing exercises that will expand the rib cage, protect the spine, and strengthen the pelvic floor.

$38.95 $27.27

The book explores sport psychology concepts and provides practical, proven strategies to incorporate into your daily life and competitive career.

$41.95 $29.37 SALE CFP30

Research, theories, and concepts of behavioral science are clearly translated into a practical handbook for professionals who work in planning, developing, implementing, or evaluating physical activity programs..

$63.67 SALE CFP30

The Happy Runner will help you get faster, go longer, and live stronger—all with a smile.

$37.95 $26.57 SALE CFP30

Face tomorrow with confidence.

For nearly a century, we’ve been a trusted insurance, risk management, and consulting partner for businesses, communities, and people around the globe. Customizing programs and solutions tailored to your needs. Driving better outcomes for your people and your organization. Helping you build the confidence to handle whatever comes next.

Annual premium starting as low as $158.00 includes

• General and professional liability

• Abuse protection

• Fascial stretch therapy services

The Gallagher Way. Since 1927.

Optional coverages to add to your protection:

• In-home studio with $25,000 fitness equipment included

• Working with children (aged 7-12)

• Fitness equipment

• Online training

• CPR training

Chief Operating Officer

Maureen Hagan

mohagan@canfitpro.com

Director of Operations

Michael O’Neil moneil@canfitpro.com

Director of Business Growth

Robert Robinson rrobinson@canfitpro.com

Managing Editor

Erin Andersen magazine@canﬁtpro.com

Art Director

Joseph Santos

Certification Experience Manager

Daniela Goode Thomas dgoodethomas@canfitpro.com

Senior Account Manager, B2B Sales

Bill Loker bloker@canfitpro.com

Member Experience Manager

Fatima Sunga fsunga@canfitpro.com

Fitness Advisory Panel

Dr. Paul Bedford | Tara-Lyn Dinyer

Milad Emadi | Dr. Joel Kerr | Dr. Ken Kinakin

Alexandre Lemay | Colin Milner | Libby Norris

Dr. Paul Oh | Marie-Eve Ricard

Dr. Bahar Tajrobehkar

TO SUBSCRIBE

canfitpro Magazine is published six times per year by Canadian Fitness Professionals Inc.

New Professional Memberships with canﬁtpro are $120 per year (plus GST/HST) and renewals are $98 per year (plus GST/HST) and include a subscription to themagazine.

For more information, please contact Member Services at ext. 301.

Feedback or to contribute to canfitpro Magazine please contact: canfitpro Magazine

110-225 Select Ave.

Toronto, ON M1X 0B5

416-493-3515 Toll Free 1-800-667-5622

Fax (416) 493-1756

magazine@canﬁtpro.com

Contact info@canﬁtpro.com for questions regarding membership, conferences, and Canadian ﬁtness resources.

canfitpro is a division of Canadian Fitness Professionals Inc.

Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40783518 - Return Postage Guaranteed

NOTE from COO

The Power of Movement and Leadership in Mental Health

Mental health is the heartbeat of this issue—and our industry’s future. Inside, you’ll find strategies to support well-being: from group fitness as a sanctuary for resilience, to meal planning that eases stress, to fitness as brain training for sharper focus and longevity. Explore insights on nervous system regulation, emotional eating, and mindful, restorative practices that help clients and professionals alike thrive.

At canfitpro Global, the session SHE SOARS: Leadership & Legacy echoed this message of courage and clarity. Our panel of trailblazing women reminded us that leadership isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about trusting yourself to start. As sponsor and panelist Jen Govier challenged: “Do it scared. Confidence comes from leaping.”

Mental well-being and leadership share the same foundation: authenticity, resilience, and connection. Whether through mindful breathing, resiliencefocused training, or building community in the gym, we strengthen not just bodies, but minds and spirits.

Recognizing the achievements of others is equally powerful. This year’s award winners inspire us not only by their accomplishments but by the courage and vision they model. Celebrating their success invites us to reflect on our own strengths and step boldly into leadership opportunities.

So, I ask you the same question posed at SHE SOARS: What’s one strength you’ve been hiding—or underestimating—that it’s time to bring forward? Remember, that when we rise together in courage, we create a living legacy of mental health, leadership, and hope.

Mo Hagan Chief Operating Officer, canfitpro

STILL SOARING!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2025 CANFITPRO GLOBAL CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW

Fitness is not just about movement, it’s about momentum.

The smiles, hugs, laughter, and passion as hundreds of fitness leaders from around the world gathered this summer in Toronto became the launchpad to SOAR at the 2025 canfitpro Global Conference & Trade Show—two-days of electrifying energy, thoughtful innovative leadership, and undeniable momentum. From the powerlifting masterclasses to the resurgence of Pilates, AI-powered breakthroughs and powerful performances, the event celebrated the present and lit the path for tomorrow.

ZEN ZONE: TECHNOLOGY MEETS

TRANQUILITY

Technology doesn’t have to distract—it can deepen presence.

Sangha Yoga Collective and Balanced Body anchored the Zen Zone—a sacred retreat inside the bustling trade show. Sound baths, breathwork, restorative Pilates, and the immersive experience of noise-cancelling headsets powered by Sound Off, created an intimate oasis amid the buzz.

ZEN ZONE HIGHLIGHTS

• Guided Sound Bath Meditation with Amanda Butchart

• Mindful Pilates with Balanced Body educators

• Drum healing journeys & kirtan circles

THINK TANK: IDEAS AMPLIFIED

The Think Tank, powered by Sound Off, became a hotbed for dialogue on biohacking, smart gyms, and AI integration. Fitness professionals and consumers flooded the room to hear from industry leaders and subject matter experts covering everything from Genetic Biohacking for Fat Loss to the future of Smart Gyms and emerging trends.

Kashif Khan Biohacking Pioneer Jaime Filer Smart Gym Advocate

Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng Critical Care and Pallative Care Physician WHO WAS IN THE ROOM?

OPENING CEREMONIES ENERGY: KEYNOTE

& BRAIN TUNE-UPS

Orlando set the tone—we weren’t just attendingaconference; we were preparing for liftoff.

The conference soared into action with Orlando Bowen’s incredible keynote filled with stories of resilience, leadership, and purpose embodied in all areas of life including professional and personal, reminding everyone of their own power to inspire.

Priming the brain for the impactful keynote speech, Jill Hewlett took the stage and facilitated the audience with Brain Tune-Up exercises. It gave attendees a literal and figurative wake-up call with neuro-movement warmups and coordination exercises that had the audience moving, laughing, and ready to learn.

FIT-TECH: AI AS CO-PILOT

AI wasn’t a whisper this year—it was a roar.

Ian Mullane’s AI Meets Action session outlined how predictive algorithms can enhance client retention and coaching personalization, addressing both fears and opportunities. Funk Roberts followed with The Business of Online Fitness, equipping coaches to scale and thrive in digital markets.

TOP TECH TAKEAWAYS

• AI enables personalization, not replacement.

• Digital retention tools are non-negotiable.

• Mobile engagement is where loyalty is built.

As expected, the minds of listeners were reframed to embrace AI as an efficiency-aid for growth—not a threat.

AI enables personalization, not replacement.

While AI dazzled, Pilates reemerged as a conference giant. With sessions like Building Strength Through Pilates, educators Helen Vanderburg and Bonnie Benesh packed rooms with trainers eager to blend classical alignment with functional strength.

PILATES RESURGENCE: ANCIENT ROOTS, MODERN REACH

Pilates is no longer a niche— it’s a necessity.

CANFITPRO NATURALS CHAMPIONSHIP:

STRENGTH TAKES THE STAGE

The canfitpro Naturals Championship brought electricity to the trade show floor. With 100+ competitors across seven categories, athletes displayed peak preparation and performance, delivering an inspiring experience to onlookers, some of whom dream of one-day stepping on stage.

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT: FUELING INNOVATION

The conference soared thanks to powerhouse sponsors including, but not limited to, Matrix, GoodLife Fitness, Human Kinetics, CORE Health & Fitness, Balanced Body, Les Mills, Precor, Keiser, TRX, WellnessSpace Brands, and UVALUX.

Matrix Canada received the Steve Block Vendor of the Year Award.

Meanwhile, Otelia Protein

made a splash as a major attraction for attendees with the launch of the new Nutrition Hub—blending education, sampling, and culinary wellness into the trade show experience.

Pasta

CLOSING RESONANCE: PERFORMANCE &

REFLECTION

As the event drew to a close, Jully Black lit up the stage for the Closing Reception with an unforgettable performance—equal parts concert, community celebration, and rally cry. Her voice and presence became the perfect crescendo to a weekend of growth and connection.

The industry isn’t just flying—it’s still soaring.

Embracing the call to inspire fitness as a desired career and lifestyle, from mindful movement to AI insights, from Pilates resurgence to championship excellence, the 2025 canfitpro Global Conference & Trade Show proved that when passion meets purpose, we don’t just grow—we ascend.

The message is clear: We are not finished. We are ...

...STILL SOARING!

CANFITPRO 2025 GLOBAL

DELEGATES’ CHOICE PRESENTERS OF THE YEAR

Canadian Presenter of the Year: Lisa Mastracchio, a champion of empowering women to grow stronger and more confident through movement.

International Presenter of the Year: Martin Rooney, a strength and conditioning pioneer who made his canfitpro Global debut last year.

FITNESS PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARDS

GLOBAL AWARD WINNERS

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

After 13 years of service and countless volunteer hours, we are proud to recognize Bill Kirby as this year’s Volunteer of the Year. Thank you, Bill, for inspiring us all with your selfless dedication!

SHARON MANN INSPIRATION AWARD

This year’s finalists represent the very best in Canadian fitness leadership: Beth Yarzab, Erin Phelan, Jully Black, Kathy Mackinnon, Lisa Greenbaum, Lynne Skilton-Hayes, Marianna Santos, Michelle Burns, Nicky Nock, and Yvette Raposo. Each has inspired peers, clients, and communities through their dedication and example.

We proudly honor Jully Black as the 2025 Sharon Mann Inspiration Award recipient. Her talent, dedication, and passion inspire both the fitness community and beyond, making her a true role model and trailblazer.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

This year, we proudly present the Lifetime Achievement Award posthumously to Chuck Lawson, honoring his visionary leadership, integrity, mentorship, and lasting impact on British Columbia’s fitness community—a life that inspired, guided, and elevated the industry.

PRO TRAINER AWARDS

PARTICIPANTS’ CHOICE

Participants’ Choice recipient, Simon Paige, is an incredible advocate, cheerleader and guide for his students, excelling in leadership, compassion and pride with every student in his courses and exams.

BUSINESS IMPACT

Business Impact recipient, Jodie Boettger, demonstrates passion, consistency, and drive, growing her business while actively promoting canfitpro. Offering multiple disciplines, virtual and in-person courses, and CEC opportunities, Jodi impacted over 200 members’ success stories and embodies true teamwork and leadership.

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

Rookie of the Year recipient, Rahmi Diomande, exceeded expectations by embracing new opportunities, driving revenue, and amplifying exposure across communities.

Carl Ulmer on behalf of his father, Chuck Lawson.

STEVE BLOCK VENDOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

This year, we are thrilled to recognize MATRIX, a long-time partner whose commitment to innovation, service, and advancing fitness perfectly embodies the spirit of this award. Accepting on behalf of MATRIX was Greg Lawlor, Canadian President.

AWARDS

SOCIAL MEDIA SUPERHERO

Social Media Superhero recipient, Blenda Chan, built a strong social media presence by consistently sharing canfitpro content, promotions, success stories, and fitness passion.

TOP EARNER

The Top Earner recipient, Trevor Pickett and Offbeat Fitness, excels as communicator, educator, and mentor—building business through trends, student needs, social media, and consistent excellence, while strengthening connections with canfitpro and fellow professionals.

Leanne Henwood-Adam is recognized for her 25 years as a canfitpro PRO TRAINER, a vital part of the education team. Since 2000, Leanne has been delivering canfitpro courses and certifications year after year, helping new fitness professionals launch their careers in the fitness industry.

SHE SOARS BOLD WOMEN. BIG LEAPS. LASTING LEGACY.

At canfitpro Global 2025, the session SHE SOARS: Leadership & Legacy brought together a powerful panel of women who are carving new paths, breaking barriers, and building legacies rooted in courage and purpose. This conversation was more than a panel—it was a movement.

This panel featured trailblazers from across the fitness, wellness, and business landscape: Jennifer (Jen) Govier, Inventor & Founder of HUX Performance Underwear; Meghan Jarvis, Athlete, Entrepreneur, and Global Wellness Leader; Laura Munkholm, FitTech Innovator and Studio Advocate; Jennifer Sawyer, Community Fitness Leader & Award-Winning Coach; and Sandra Tadros Guirguis, Wellness Speaker, Pharmacist, and Author and was moderated by Maureen (Mo) Hagan, creator of Women Who Influence and canfitpro’s Chief Operating Officer.

Together, these incredible female role-models explored the leaps of faith, the setbacks and breakthroughs, and the defining moments that have shaped their journeys.

Legacy isn’t something you leave behind—it’s something you live every single day through courage, choices, and lifting others. – Mo Hagan #Leadership #SHESOARS

Leaps of Faith and Living Legacy

A common theme throughout the session was the power of taking a leap of faith—choosing to soar rather than shrink. Every panelist echoed that leadership doesn’t mean having it all figured out; it means trusting yourself enough to start.

This was beautifully embodied by Jen Govier, whose pivot from a 20+ year corporate career to inventing a patented line of high-performance women’s underwear (HUX) was not just about innovation, but about courage. Her story illustrates what happens when you recognize a need, trust your instincts, and step into the unknown. For Jen, being part of SHE SOARS was also about reminding us of the importance of being in rooms with like-minded people, those who refuse to wait for permission and instead claim their leadership by taking action.

“Jen Govier’s words—‘stop flying too close to the ground’—truly struck me… I left the session imagining a higher purpose for my business.”

– Tosca Reno

Lessons in Courage and Confidence

Each panelist offered invaluable lessons:

Meghan Jarvis reminded us that the athletic mindset—resilience, teamwork, and bold risk-taking— translates directly into leading movements and mentoring women across continents.

Laura Munkholm showed how technology can shape inclusive,

values-driven businesses, while underscoring that authentic leadership demands adaptability and vision.

Jennifer Sawyer shared how authenticity and showing up consistently for her community creates a legacy that inspires others to lead with heart.

Sandra Tadros Guirguis wove together science and wellness, showing that true leadership is about empowering others to take ownership of their wholeness and health.

Each story reinforces that confidence isn’t something you wait for, it’s built through action.

“Do it scared. Confidence comes from leaping.”

– Jen Govier

A Call to Rise

into a gathering of professionals, but into a community of leaders ready to rise.

“Being a part of the She Soars Panel was the highlight of my Global experience… I walked away empowered to take my fitness business to the next level.”

– Jennifer Sawyer

When SHE SOARS, We All Rise

To bring the conversation full circle, Mo asked each delegate to pause and reflect on one question:

“What’s one leadership strength you’ve been hiding—or underestimating—that it’s time to bring forward?”

Delegates wrote down their answers, then stood up and shared with a partner. In that moment, the room was transformed not just

So, we leave you with the same challenge: identify the strength you’ve been holding back, take the leap, and lead with purpose and inspire others to do the same. Your legacy isn’t something you leave behind—it’s something you live every single day.

“Surround yourself with women who expand what’s possible—we’re never meant to do this alone.”

– Kim Basler

Today’s gyms are expected to support total wellness—physically, mentally, and emotionally. The cumulative stress of both training and daily life makes it essential for fitness environments to provide tools and spaces that help members recharge, recover, and reset.

Precor is helping forward-thinking fitness operators meet this demand by integrating wellness technology that complements strength and cardio training to support recovery, longevity, and health span. From red light therapy to contrast heat and cold modalities, these solutions enhance physical performance while creating environments that recharge the body and mind— fostering a more complete approach to fitness and well-being.

Wellness That Works — For Members and Operators

Fitness centers investing in dedicated wellness or recovery zones see results beyond improved member satisfaction; they’re unlocking entirely new revenue streams. Whether offered as premium add-ons or available as pay-per-use services, these wellness technologies offer attractive ROI potential. To help operators understand this opportunity, Precor created the Wellness ROI Calculator,

MAXIMIZING ROI THROUGH WELLNESS INNOVATION

HOW PRECOR’S WELLNESS TECHNOLOGIES HELP FITNESS OPERATORS DRIVE NEW REVENUE, ELEVATE MEMBER EXPERIENCES, AND FUTURE-PROOF THEIR BUSINESS

By Precor

a data-driven tool that projects revenue and payback timelines.

Meet the Products

Behind the Trends

Precor’s lineup is designed for real-world commercial use, seamlessly integrating into existing fitness floors while elevating the members’ experience.

ClubStrong™ Saunas: These commercialgrade infrared saunas offer more red light than any other commercial sauna on the market. With configurations for two to eight people, quick-heating technology, and natural heating elements like Himalayan salt and jade, they create a restorative environment that’s ready for high usage environments.

RedFuzion™ Rejuve Booth: This twoperson, space-efficient booth features a 360° Chromolight LED system to deliver full-spectrum red light therapy. Sessions last just 12 - 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy members and high-turnover schedules.

RedFuzion™ POD: This compact pod combines red light, dry and infrared heat up to 190°F, enriched oxygen, and vibration therapy in just 12 – 15-minute sessions. It’s perfect for facilities with limited floor space.

RedFuzion™ Pro Max Bed: For deep infrared and red-light sessions, this 43,000LED bed surrounds the user in 360-degree infrared light from seven preset programs. It is an ideal choice for designated recovery zones, post-workout routines, and upsell membership tiers.

CryoFuzion™ Recovery POD: Contrast therapy is well known in elite training environments. This unit simplifies the time-tested approach by combining cold water therapy (down to 39°F) and heat (up to 140°F), along with steam, mist, and Vichy showers for a circulation-boosting hydrotherapy experience in a fully contained unit.

Beyond the Workout

Holistic wellness is about supporting the full spectrum of human health: physical, mental, and emotional. Recovery modalities like red light therapy, saunas, and cryotherapy pods do more than help muscles recover; they create intentional moments for the body to restore and the mind to reset. Together, these recovery experiences deliver a powerful blend of restoration and resilience, helping exercisers feel better, train better, and live better.

To learn more, visit precor.com/ wellness.

Precor promises precision quality products with steadfast reliability that are inspired by exercisers and built to perform for the world’s best fitness facilities. As the #1 choice for thousands of fitness centers worldwide, Precor is built on decades of innovation and trusted partnerships across the fitness industry.

BEYOND THE BURN:

BOOST MENTAL HEALTH IN ANY TYPE OF FITNESS CLASS

DISCOVER PRACTICAL WAYS TO SHIFT PARTICIPANTS’ OUTLOOK, FOSTER RESILIENCE, AND TURN YOUR CLASSES INTO A SANCTUARY FOR MENTAL WELL-BEING

By Jen Sawyer

Ask any fitness instructor to name the benefits of group fitness, and they will tell you the list is countless! From social interaction and encouragement, communal motivation, professional coaching led by a certified instructor, trying new moves and equipment in

... WE CAN ALTER SOMEONE’S MINDSET SO THEIR ENTIRE OUTLOOK ON A PARTICULAR SITUATION WILL CHANGE.

a safe, structured setting and making fitness fun, group fitness reaps rewards. But have you ever thought of the impact we can have on people’s mental health specifically? Or how we can play a role in shifting someone’s mindset from a negative or fixed state to an open one?

The idea that we can shift someone’s mood or energy in group fitness is not new to us but let’s focus on how we can alter someone’s mindset so their entire outlook on a particular situation will change.

We can embed mental well-being practices including mindset shifting into any type of group fitness class. Perhaps the most obvious is in intense timed or bootcamp-style classes where resiliency is pulled out of participants who might feel they can’t finish a set or interval and then power through to the end. As fitness instructors, it is important for us to explicitly point this out to our participants with phrases such as, “you didn’t think you would make it to the end and look how you nailed it!” or “that took a lot of power and determination to get through - you are so strong!”

It may seem easy to make the mind shift connection in these types of classes, but we can easily embed this into flexibility/ cool-down or dynamic stretching in any class, even when pressed for time.

Here are some examples of how you can aid your participants with caring for their mental well-being:

Turn the lights off: Finish your class with participants in a supine position on the floor and ask them to close their

eyes while gently turning off the studio lights. This small act can begin to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere.

Turn mental focus to breath, heartbeat or relaxation of muscles: Ask your members to count their inhalations or exhalations, feel their heart beating under a hand on the chest or direct them to “let go” or “melt” tension in their muscles. This will help participants enter a state of relaxation.

Tune out distraction by turning inwards: Ask members to release their jaw, relax their temples or gently wiggle their fingertips. Taking their attention to something internal will help them to begin ignoring sticky thoughts or outside distractions, promoting the calm state we are looking for.

Use calming music: The power of music in group fitness classes is priceless! Transition your playlist to songs with slow beats per minute and include acoustic or instrumental covers that remind participants that this moment is one to pause and let go.

Explore added tools: The use of tools that can instill calmness in the room like chimes, flameless candles, sound bowls,

etc. can further guide your participants towards a sense of stillness.

Once these practices have been applied, allow members time to breathe through guided meditation or breathwork. It is in this naturally calm state that people can begin to rest and digest, to decrease stress and anxiety, and to challenge negative thoughts with a new perspective. You are essentially helping people clear their minds.

Remember to match your approach to the type of class that you are teaching. This ensures that the class flows and that relaxation does not feel forced. Here are some examples:

Post strength-focused class - guide participants to imagine the lengthening of muscles to a pre-exercise state. You can focus on specific muscle groups that were used in class.

Post HIIT class - help your participants return their breath to a natural rhythm and begin to find homeostasis once again.

Post Bootcamp-style classcongratulate your class and have them thank their minds and bodies for what they were able to do today. This may not naturally come to some so teaching people to honour and appreciate their bodies and minds’ abilities is important.

In summary, adding these practical strategies to your group fitness classes will help the mental health of your members, making your group fitness class a powerful tool for emotional and psychological well-being, not just physical improvement.

Jen Sawyer, canfitpro PRO TRAINER, Entrepreneur, Global Presenter and Gym Owner, studied Psychology at Queen’s University and worked as a School Support Program Teacher for many years. She embeds her knowledge of mental health practices into all her group fitness classes and personal training sessions and encourages her team at North End Fitness and Training to do the same.

COURS EN PLEIN AIR

UNE BOUFFÉE D’AIR

FRAIS POUR LA SANTÉ

MENTALE

Par Marie-Eve Ricard

Reconnectez corps et esprit grâce à l’extérieur ! Offrir des cours en plein air à vos participantes et participants ne relève pas uniquement d’une tendance : c’est une façon concrète d’intégrer le bien-être mental à vos interventions. En tant qu’instructrice ou instructeur de cours en groupe, vous avez le pouvoir d’utiliser le plein air comme un outil pour réduire le stress, stimuler l’humeur

et nourrir la résilience émotionnelle des personnes que vous accompagnez.

LES BIENFAITS DU PLEIN AIR

SUR LA SANTÉ MENTALE

Les effets bénéfiques de la nature sur la santé mentale sont bien documentés. En planifiant des séances à l’extérieur, vous permettez à vos participantes et participants de bénéficier d’une diminution du taux de cortisol (l’hormone du stress) grâce au contact avec les espaces verts.

La lumière naturelle stimule également la production de sérotonine, une hormone qui joue un rôle clé dans

la régulation de l’humeur. Cela peut contribuer à une sensation de bien-être immédiat, voire durable.

Il ne s’agit pas que de biologie : la nature invite aussi à ralentir et à se recentrer. Elle offre un cadre propice à la reconnexion à soi, une qualité rare dans un quotidien souvent surchargé.

COURS EN GROUPE À

L’EXTÉRIEUR : UNE EXPÉRIENCE RENOUVELÉE

Sortir du cadre habituel de la salle d’entrainement permet d’offrir une expérience sensorielle et sociale différente. En plein air, les échanges

entre participantes et participants deviennent plus spontanés et un sentiment de communauté peut émerger naturellement.

Les environnements variés, notamment les parcs, les sentiers, et les rives, apportent une diversité qui stimule la motivation. Vous brisez la monotonie tout en maintenant l’engagement du groupe. C’est aussi une belle occasion de redécouvrir votre rôle sous un autre angle : celui d’une personne qui contribue activement au mieux-être de gens.

DES IDÉES CONCRÈTES POUR INTÉGRER LE PLEIN AIR

Vous pouvez adapter de nombreux entrainements au plein air, en mettant l’accent sur la santé mentale. Voici quelques idées à explorer :

LES ENVIRONNEMENTS VARIÉS, NOTAMMENT LES PARCS, LES SENTIERS, ET LES RIVES,

APPORTENT UNE DIVERSITÉ QUI

STIMULE LA MOTIVATION.

Séances de yoga ou de méditation au lever du soleil : profitez du calme matinal pour guider vos groupes dans des enchainements de mouvements fluides, tout en pratiquant la respiration consciente.

Balades actives ou randonnées avec pauses d’exercices : combinez marche dynamique, observation de la nature et exercices simples à intervalles stratégiques.

Renforcement musculaire inspiré de l’environnement : utilisez les escaliers d’un parc, les bancs ou même les troncs d’arbres pour créer des circuits fonctionnels originaux.

Séances en raquettes ou marches hivernales : transformez les paysages enneigés en terrain de jeu, en misant sur l’endurance, l’équilibre et le plaisir de bouger en toute saison.

Peu importe le lieu ou la saison, tout devient une occasion de s’entrainer et de se reconnecter à soi.

FAVORISER LA PLEINE

CONSCIENCE DANS VOS SÉANCES

L’extérieur est un cadre idéal pour introduire des éléments de pleine

conscience dans vos cours. Invitez vos participantes et participants à porter attention à leur respiration, aux sons environnants et à la texture du sol sous leurs pieds.

Vous pouvez également intégrer des moments de réflexion, de gratitude ou de silence en début ou en fin de séance. Ces quelques minutes peuvent amplifier les bienfaits de l’activité physique en cultivant une présence à soi et au moment présent.

CONCLUSION

En tant qu’instructrice ou instructeur de cours en groupe, vous avez un rôle privilégié à jouer dans le mieuxêtre global de vos participantes et participants. En intégrant le plein air à votre approche, vous ne proposez pas seulement un entrainement différent, vous offrez un espace de ressourcement, d’ancrage et de transformation.

La nature devient alors votre partenaire, et vous, une véritable ambassadrice ou un véritable ambassadeur du bien-être mental par le mouvement. Il est temps de sortir, de respirer… et d’inspirer autrement.

Marie-Eve Ricard , entrepreneure dynamique, agile et polyvalente détenant un baccalauréat en éducation physique et à la santé, possède plus de 20 ans d’expérience dans le conditionnement physique. Elle excelle dans les cours en groupe en ligne, en entreprise et sur l’eau (SUP). Lauréate du prix « Impact dans l’industrie » de canfitpro, elle partage son expertise avec un dévouement exceptionnel et passion.

When I transitioned to a fulltime fitness career in 2004, I loved the connections I formed with clients, especially when they were thriving. But I struggled with those who were struggling—particularly two clients whose challenges were rooted in mental health, including one on leave for depression. Despite my

support through exercise and meal plans, I lacked the tools to help them mentally. Every session was emotionally draining. They seemed hopeful, but progress never stuck, and their setbacks began to take a toll on me.

At the time, I was struggling too—coping with a breakup, mounting debt, and low self-confidence. I was trying to rebuild

myself and didn’t have the capacity to support others emotionally. Mental health wasn’t a topic in the fitness industry then; we relied on endorphins and energy to carry us through. That wasn’t always enough. After a few years, I stepped away from personal training and focused on group fitness, where I only had to manage my own emotions.

RAISING THE BAR

FOR FIT PROS

PRIORITIZING MENTAL WELL-BEING TO LEAD WITH PURPOSE, IMPACT, AND LONGEVITY

By Lisa Greenbaum

It took years to fully understand what was happening back then. I’m grateful for a successful career in group fitness, the tools I’ve gained, and the support that’s helped me manage my own mental health. That journey is why I’m now committed to sharing these tools and educating other fitness professionals on how to care for themselves while supporting clients more effectively. The truth is clients struggling with mental health need us most—they need our empathy, boundaries, and encouragement. After all, physical and mental health are deeply connected.

The relationships we build with our clients can be incredibly powerful. As fitness professionals, we often work with people at their most vulnerable level—sharing insecurities about their appearance, abilities, or strength. For many of us, the desire to help and empower others is what led us to this field. But to truly support our clients, we must also care for our own well-being.

RELATED STUDIES

A German study looked at counselors who practiced meditation for nine weeks and the benefits for experienced an overall reduction higher measurements of counselors. When we are fitness professionals, our

In a randomized trial using Stress Reduction program experiencing Generalized 66% of folks in the study reduction in anxiety-based

One study reviewed movement-based with those experiencing disorder. Results showed results in overall symptoms, nearly 48% maintaining remission from symptoms.

Here are a few practices that have helped me:

Avoid over-scheduling. Our work is energy-intensive, and we’re paid accordingly. Know your limits and honour them.

Take breaks between sessions. Listen to music, take a walk, or connect with someone who lifts you up. Schedule your own workouts—especially after emotionally demanding sessions—to reset and recharge.

Set boundaries. Allow clients to be themselves without absorbing their energy. Expect lateness from chronic latecomers. Limit venting time, then redirect the focus.

If you’ve ever struggled with your mental health, you know how exhausting it can be just to feel okay. Our clients are often in the same situation. Extend grace to yourself and to them.

And remember in our lowest moments, it’s easy to forget the tools that help. That’s why I created a free Yoga for Mental Health course on the Sangha Yoga Collective portal. It includes simple practices for depression and anxiety—30-minute yoga sessions, breathing techniques, and checklists for when you need support. Please use it and share it. The more we support one another, the less we suffer and the more connected we become.

Lisa Greenbaum, E-RYT 500 + C-IAYT is the founder of Sangha Yoga Collective, a trauma- informed and philosophy-first yoga education school offering 200 + 300-hr YTT certifications across Canada. Lisa is an awardwinning presenter and change maker with 20+ years of industry experience.

UPPER BODY CYCLE

Engage all your members with our inclusive cardio experience. Our Upper Body Cycles build progressive strength and endurance with synchronous, asynchronous and independent arm rotations, using repeatable resistance just right for each individual.

DECODING EMOTIONAL EATING:

STRATEGIES FOR HEALTH AND FITNESS PROFESSIONALS

GAIN CRITICAL INSIGHTS INTO EMOTIONAL EATING PATTERNS AND CRAVINGS TO PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE, CLIENTCENTERED CARE

By Alisia Young, HBSc, N.D.

Helping individuals transform their lives is an honour, but it also comes with challenges, particularly given the complexities of human behaviour. Nutrition is one area where these challenges often arise, as food is constantly present in our environment and intricately linked to our emotions— some of which we recognize, and others we may not. Therefore, it is essential for professionals to have a strong understanding of emotional eating, cravings, and effective strategies to help clients manage them. This knowledge is crucial for supporting clients in achieving their health and wellness goals.

EMOTIONAL EATING

Emotional eating is when our eating decisions are driven by our emotions. Sometimes the motivations are clear to us, while other times, they can be due to a combination of factors, or seemingly due to nothing. As shared by Karen Koenig in her book The Food and Feelings Workbook, some of the most common emotions which trigger emotional eating include guilt, shame, helplessness, anxiety, disappointment, confusion, and loneliness. The problem arises when food is used to cope with or suppress the uncomfortable feelings triggered by those emotions.

CRAVINGS

Cravings are powerful, compelling urges that create a sense of immediate need to give in. In this context, cravings often involve the consumption of certain foods or beverages—particularly those engineered to be highly palatable and associated with comfort.

SUPPORTING YOUR CLIENTS WITH EMOTIONAL EATING AND CRAVINGS

Become aware of how they feel throughout the day.

Encourage your clients to create a tracking journal where they take note of the following:

• Events that lead them to feel intense emotions (e.g., stress, boredom, impatience, annoyance, anger, etc.) or lead to emotional discomfort.

• Triggers that contribute to giving in to cravings that may include skipping meals, the presence of junk food in the environment (particularly food they did not intentionally choose), and consuming food out of habit rather than genuine desire.

• Anything else that seems important to note.

Tracking this data will provide useful information and allow you and your

FACTS

Research shows that about 75% of all our eating is emotionally driven. We eat not because we’re hungry, but because we’re bored, stressed, or anxious.

38% of adults stated that they have been implicated in emotional eating during the past month, with 49% of them engaging in it weekly.

27% of adults say they eat to manage stress and 34% of those who report overeating or eating unhealthy foods because of stress say this behavior is a habit.

client to identify patterns and create a game plan for tackling them.

Identify “voids” in your client’s life.

Emotional eating is often used as a shield to protect against painful emotions or to avoid addressing areas of life that feel overwhelming or insurmountable. Common examples of these “voids” may include:

• Chronic overwhelm

• Excessive busyness

• A lack of self-love and self-care

• A sense of unfulfillment

• Procrastination driven by fear of failure—or even fear of success What areas in your client’s life need attention so they can be addressed directly, rather than through emotional eating?

Educate yourself on whether your client may have an eating disorder, rather than simply disordered eating patterns.

There is an overlap amongst emotional eating and clinical eating disorders. As such, if you or your client believes they have an eating disorder, refer them to a practitioner (e.g., a therapist) who has specialized training in managing eating disorders. This allows you to collaboratively work as a team to ensure your client is getting well rounded support. A recommended starting

point is the National Eating Disorder Information Centre (NEDIC)

FINAL THOUGHTS

Food is essential to our lives; however, it is sometimes used as a tool to express unmet needs or to compensate for areas lacking attention. By understanding the nature of emotional eating, recognizing how cravings manifest, and learning how to effectively support your clients in managing them, you can empower them to overcome a significant barrier to achieving their health and fitness goals.

Alisia Young is a canfitpro PRO TRAINER, yoga and fitness instructor, personal trainer, nutrition consultant, and author. With over 17 years in the health industry, and through Eat ‘N’ Live Free, she focuses on helping individuals overcome emotional eating and junk food dependency, while fostering a love for mindful movement.

The Next Gen 8 & 10 Series blends durability with luxury, built for connected fitness spaces that attract and retain today’s tech-savvy members.

APEX TOUCH delivers immersive workouts, while the APEX LED display offers a streamlined, performance-driven experience— both equipped with tap-to-pair tech for personalized engagement.

BEYOND NUTRITION:

By Angela Wallace, MSc, RD

We’ve all been there, it’s 5:30 p.m., you’re just home from work, there’s lots to do and you open the fridge to find some salsa, half-thawed chicken, and spinach. You’re starving and the idea of cooking feels impossible. Maybe a child needs help with homework, your dog needs to be walked, or you have unread emails piled up. The easy fix? Take-out or some frozen pizza. And while that’s

okay sometimes, having a meal plan can make moments like this feel less stressful. For me, meal planning is more than just a tool that helps you eat healthier, it’s a way to reduce stress and support your mental health.

There’s a well-established connection between the brain and the gut. What, how, and when we eat can impact our mood, cognitive function, and overall mental well-being. Research has shown that structured routines and a sense of predictability can lower stress levels and improve mental resilience. When it comes to food, the constant need to make decisions (“what’s for dinner?” or “do we have anything to pack for lunch?”) adds to our mental load. Over time, this ongoing stream of small decisions can lead to what’s known as decision fatigue, a state where even the simplest choices start to feel overwhelming. Research from Wansink and Sobal (2007) reveals that individuals make an average of 221 food-related decisions per day, suggesting that the cognitive demands related to food can contribute to mental fatigue.

This is where meal planning can play a powerful role. By creating structure around meals and removing the guesswork, meal planning can help reduce the mental fatigue associated with daily food decisions. It also supports more consistent eating patterns, which can positively influence mood and energy levels. Studies suggest that maintaining stable blood sugar through regular, balanced meals helps prevent common symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, and irritability.

Meal planning is more than just a time saver. It’s a way for you to bring mindfulness and intentionality into your day. When we think about planning our meals, we are often not only thinking about what we are eating but WHY we are eating these foods. The ‘why’ behind our food choices might align with some of our personal values like reducing food waste, saving money, or prioritizing

... [RESEARCH] REVEALS THAT INDIVIDUALS MAKE AN AVERAGE OF 221 FOOD-RELATED DECISIONS PER DAY, SUGGESTING THAT THE COGNITIVE DEMANDS RELATED TO FOOD

CAN CONTRIBUTE TO MENTAL FATIGUE.

nutrition. Aligning meals with our values can make the process feel less chore like and more meaningful.

Here are five simple strategies to share with your clients to help them find success when it comes to meal planning.

1. Start small

You don’t need to plan every single meal to feel the benefits. Begin by focusing on one meal (dinners) for the week. This gives some structure without the pressure of having to plan every meal. Over time, you can build from there if it feels right.

2. Lean on simple tools like grocery lists or theme nights.

A basic list can make shopping faster and prevent you from buying things you don’t need. Consider creating weekly theme nights like ‘taco Tuesday’ or ‘pasta Friday’ to make planning even easier. It narrows down options and builds a routine you can rely on. For example, in my household we always do breakfast for dinner on a busy sport night because its nutritious and easy.

3. Try batch cooking or prepping a few things in advance.

You don’t need to cook everything on Sunday. Even washing and chopping a few veggies or marinating a protein can make weekday meals feel less rushed. Leftovers or doubling recipes can also give you a break midweek when energy runs low.

4. Involve the family (remember it’s not all on you). Invite a partner, kids, or housemates into the process. Letting everyone suggest a meal, help prep, or choose a theme

allows them to participate and takes pressure off you. It’s also a fantastic way to bond, build skills, and get everyone excited about what’s being served.

5. Keep it flexible.

Meal planning is a guide, not a strict schedule. Some nights won’t go as expected, and that’s okay. Flexibility keeps the process sustainable, it’s not about meal planning perfectly, but doing it in a way that works for you and reduces stress.

Planning meals can be a small shift that can have a significant impact on day-to-day life. Whether it’s helping you feel more organized, saving money, or making evenings a little smoother, it can help create ease, reduce stress, and support mental and physical well-being.

Angela Wallace is a registered dietitian and canfitpro Personal Training Specialist with a focus on supporting women and families through personalized nutrition and fitness. You can learn more about her services at Eat Right Feel Right or follow @nutrition.for.families.

BREATHE TO THRIVE:

NASAL BREATHING FOR STRESS

RELIEF AND MENTAL CLARITY

HOW ONE SMALL SHIFT IN HOW YOU BREATHE CAN LOWER STRESS, SUPPORT EMOTIONAL REGULATION, AND BOOST YOUR OVERALL WELL-BEING

By Ben McDonald

Life is full of ups and downs, stressors both perceived and actual, and we often hear “take a deep breath” as advice to help bring those stress levels down. What does that mean and how can we use simple, straight forward breathing techniques to elicit change in our mental and emotional state?

When we consider breathing, there are three main components: Biomechanical (the mechanics of breathing), biochemical (the chemical part that is mostly to do with O2 and CO2), and our emotional or psychological state. Each one of these can affect the other, e.g., you can change someone’s breathing mechanics by giving them shocking news. Human beings are the only animal on the planet that can consciously manipulate breath to alter their physiological state but for downregulation and de-stressing we need a simple place to start. Human beings are dopamine driven, we love SUCCESS, so start with something easy. The most straightforward place to begin, that will alter every facet of one’s breath, is nasal breathing. Just doing this one thing will affect all three components of breath; it breeds success in our clients, and you don’t need to buy Lululemon pants to do it!

How does nasal breathing help with physiological well-being?

It helps with diaphragmatic breathing: By breathing through the nose, the diaphragm must kick in to ‘pull’ air into the lower lobes of the lungs aiding diffusion and activating the parasympathetic nervous response (downregulation).

Nasal breathing can help reduce blood pressure: The mucus membrane in the nasal cavity produces low levels of nitric oxide (a vasodilator). When you inhale, nitric oxide gets taken into the lungs, dilating the capillaries and reducing blood pressure.

Tongue posture effects vagus nerve stimulation: When you breathe nasally, the tongue sits against the hard palate (roof of the mouth) stimulating the vagus nerve and aiding in down regulation.

Breathing nasally helps to extend the exhale: An extended exhale helps stimulate the vagus nerve, reducing heart rate and stress hormones. Couple that exhale with a nasal inhale and you get a ‘double whammy’ with the benefits of nitric oxide.

This list of benefits is not exhaustive by any stretch of the imagination but if you

can improve just this one thing, it has the potential to have a massive impact on you and your clients.

One of my favourite techniques that I use with my clients is the ‘1:2 breath.’ This simple technique helps to stimulate the vagus nerve, drop blood pressure and reduce heart rate, activating the parasympathetic response and bringing the frontal lobe of the brain back online, which gives us the ability to think a little more clearly. This can help with everything from improving sleep to mental clarity!

BEYOND THE REP:

BUILDING MENTAL GRIT THROUGH RESILIENCE-FOCUSED FITNESS

HOW INTEGRATING MINDFULNESS AND CHALLENGE-BASED WORKOUTS CAN STRENGTHEN YOUR CLIENTS’ MINDS AS MUCH AS THEIR BODIES

By Alicia Tyler

In the world of fitness, where physical strength and appearance are often the focus, there's now a growing emphasis on training that goes beyond muscle gain and endurance. Canadian fitness enthusiasts are increasingly turning to workouts that not only sculpt the body but also fortify the mind, promoting resilience and mental toughness. This integrated approach not only enhances athletic performance but also equips individuals to navigate life's unpredictable challenges—outside the gym—with greater ease and grace.

MINDFULNESS IN MOTION

Resilience-focused training is built around mindfulness—a practice that

encourages individuals to be present and aware of their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Mindfulness techniques have been incorporated into various exercise modalities, including yoga, Pilates, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and strength training. By combining elements such as controlled breathing, focused attention on movement, and intentional relaxation, these workouts help people cultivate mental clarity to manage their stress and emotions.

Take yoga, a combination of physical postures (asanas) with breathwork (pranayama) and meditation, providing a calming yet challenging practice that cultivates both physical flexibility

and mental resilience. Pilates is another modality that emphasizes precise movements and core strength, blending both body awareness and concentration—a practice that translates into enhanced mental discipline during workouts, and beyond.

CHALLENGE-BASED WORKOUTS

Another pillar of resilience training involves challenge-based workouts that push individuals outside of their comfort zones. These workouts are designed not only to build physical strength but also to test and develop your mental toughness. Activities like obstacle course racing (OCR), HYROX, and CrossFit, as well as endurance challenges, require participants to confront obstacles, push through discomfort, and persist through adversity—something that's easier said than done.

OCR courses, featuring obstacles such as rope climbs, mud crawls, and wall jumps—think Spartan races, Tough

LESSONS IN GRIT FROM HISTORY

Throughout history, people have developed many ways to build mental grit and resilience Here are a few powerful historical and traditional approaches from different cultures and eras:

STOICISM (Ancient Greece & Rome)

Stoics like Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus taught the practice of voluntary discomfort (e.g., cold exposure, fasting) to toughen the mind.

ZEN BUDDHISM AND MEDITATION (East Asia)

Monks sat in long, silent meditation (zazen) as a key tool for cultivating mental toughness.

RITES OF PASSAGE AND INITIATIONS

(many Indigenous and tribal cultures): Young people often underwent demanding physical trials (e.g., vision quests, wilderness survival, coming-of-age rituals) to prove courage and strengthen the mind.

CHANTING, MANTRA REPETITION, OR PRAYER

In many traditions (Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism), repetition was used to steady the mind and develop inner strength.

Mudder, and the like—demand a blend of physical strength and mental agility. Participants must strategize, adapt quickly to changing conditions, and summon inner reserves of determination to overcome each hurdle. CrossFit and HYROX, known for their varied and intense workouts, challenge athletes to perform functional movements at high intensity, fostering resilience through camaraderie and competitive spirit.

HOW TO BUILD MENTAL GRIT

Central to resilience training are techniques that specifically target the development of mental grit—the ability to persevere in the face of setbacks and adversity. These techniques often incorporate psychological strategies, such as visualization, goal setting, and positive self-talk.

Visualization techniques involve mentally rehearsing successful outcomes, whether completing a strenuous workout or achieving a personal fitness milestone. This practice not only enhances focus and confidence but also primes the mind for success.

Goal setting provides a roadmap for progress, breaking down larger fitness aspirations into manageable milestones that celebrate incremental achievements and support your motivation throughout.

Positive self-talk transforms internal dialogue from self-criticism to selfempowerment. Encouraging mantras and affirmations—such as "I am strong," "I am capable," and "I embrace

challenges"—reinforce a resilient mindset, bolstering determination and perseverance during strenuous workouts, which then trickle into everyday life, a welcome bonus.

EMBRACING RESILIENCE BEYOND THE GYM

Resilience training extends beyond physical exercise, permeating daily routines and enhancing overall mental strength. Canadian fitness enthusiasts embrace these practices not only to excel in sports and fitness but also to thrive in their professional and personal lives, reaching into their proverbial back pockets for a little backup when the going gets tough. The mental fortitude cultivated through resilience-focused workouts equips individuals to manage stress, adapt to change, and bounce back from setbacks with a can-do attitude, resilience and grace.

Remember, resilience training requires a change in thinking—a shift that acknowledges the profound connection between physical health and mental strength. By integrating mindfulness practices, challengebased workouts, and techniques for building mental grit, you're forging a path toward heightened well-being. So, the next time your client is smashing out a killer workout, remind them that in challenging or even mind-bending moments that stir up self-doubt, these workouts not only sculpt strong bodies but also nurture resilient minds—something that is sure to come in handy on this rollercoaster ride we call life.

Alicia Tyler is a journalist and editor specializing in health, nutrition, fitness, and wellness. She was previously the Editorial Director of Clean Eating and Vegetarian Times. Her work has also appeared in MindBodyGreen, MoneySense, Yoga Journal, Women’s Running, and Oxygen. She is also an F45 studio owner in Toronto and a certified nutritionist and personal trainer.

P R O U D LY C A N A D I A N

STUCK CLIENTS,

STRESSED SYSTEMS

HELP CLIENTS BREAK THROUGH PLATEAUS BY ADDRESSING NERVOUS SYSTEM REGULATION, NOT JUST PROGRAMMING

By Rebecca Vigelius

Your client is showing up, lifting heavier, and tracking macros. They say they’re sleeping (mostly). But even as you tweak their plan, add mobility work, adjust the volume, progress hits a plateau that you can’t seem to break through.

It’s frustrating—for you and for them.

A few years ago, I was working with a personal trainer. I showed up every week, gave it my all, ate well, and chased better sleep while also

navigating long-standing back pain. But no matter what we tried, I couldn’t break out of a cycle of fatigue, low motivation, and “I just can’t today.”

My energy was unpredictable and progress toward getting leaner and stronger felt non-existent. Each session felt like a grind and every week I got more discouraged.

My trainer did everything she thought would help:

• Scaled back intensity

• Swapped in mobility and core work

• Added encouragement and accountability

• Emphasized rest days

• Reminded me to be patient and consistent

Almost one year later and still nothing. So, I quit. I didn’t ghost—just sent a text: “It’s time for a reset and some actual healing.” I’d begun digging into stress and realized the issue wasn’t programming, it was my nervous system.

YOU CAN’T OUT-PROGRAM A SURVIVAL STATE

Here’s what I’ve learned as a Neurosomatic Intelligence practitioner: when someone’s nervous system is stuck in a survival state—fight, flight, freeze, or shutdown—it will block change. Even when the logic is sound and the habits are consistent, the body prioritizes protection over progress. In other words, state comes before strategy.

When the brain interprets threat—real or perceived—recovery tanks and positive results are tough to come by. Instead, it focuses on conserving energy, increasing inflammation, and disrupting sleep—no matter how smart your plan is. While seemingly counterintuitive, they’re all protective measures.

SURVIVAL MODE CAN LOOK LIKE NONCOMPLIANCE

OR OVERCOMPLIANCE

Most coaches are trained to spot behaviour: Is the client logging food? Showing up? Following the plan? Check, check, check.

But dysregulation doesn’t always look like missed workouts. It can show up as:

• The under-functioner: skipped sessions, stalled progress

• The over-functioner: never misses a session, pushes through pain, shrugs off exhaustion—and still feels stuck

Some clients may be following the plan to the letter and still feel flat, inflamed, unmotivated, or emotionally disconnected. That doesn’t mean they’re failing. It means their body is prioritizing survival over positive adaptation.

Dysregulation often hides in plain sight. Whether your client is checked out or pushing too hard, you might notice:

• Chronic fatigue and poor recovery

• Sleep issues that don’t respond to standard advice

• Emotional reactivity or flatness

• Brain fog, body aches, or joint pain

• Feeling numb or disconnected from their body

These are nervous system signals. And they’re your cue to zoom out and look at state—not just strategy.

SAFETY IS THE SECRET SAUCE FOR SUSTAINABLE CHANGE

Progress happens when the body feels safe enough to change. This isn’t mindset—it’s physiology.

The nervous system constantly scans for cues of safety or threat, both internally and externally. When it perceives threats, it shuts down growth and shifts into protection mode. That includes:

• Holding tension in muscles

• Slowing down recovery

• Heightening emotional sensitivity

• Reducing ability to handle load

But when it feels safe, it opens. It allows for change, recovery, and positive adaptation. It’s the true foundation of performance.

3 SIGNS YOUR CLIENT’S

NERVOUS SYSTEM IS STUCK

You don’t need to be a therapist or Neurosomatic Practitioner to spot nervous system dysregulation. Watch for these three patterns:

1. Inexplicable plateaus despite program adherence. They’re doing everything “right,” but nothing’s working. The usual tweaks don’t help.

DYSREGULATION OFTEN HIDES IN PLAIN SIGHT.

2. Emotional spikes or shutdowns. They cry during warm-ups. They ghost sessions. They say things like “I just can’t today” (but they can’t explain why).

3. Disconnection from the body. They can’t feel their effort, their hunger, or their fullness. They look at you blankly when you ask, “Where do you feel that in your body?”

These aren’t motivation problems. They’re regulation problems.

WHAT COACHES CAN DO— STARTING TODAY

You don’t need to overhaul your whole method. Small shifts can create significant changes at the nervous system level for clients who need them.

Start sessions with regulation, not activation Before the warm-up, take 30–60 seconds to create nervous system safety through new sensory input. Try:

• Exhale-focused breathing (longer out than in)

• A visual reset to relieve eye strain and improve fatigue

• Whole body tapping to improve exteroception and help complete the stress cycle

Invite body awareness

Ask questions like:

• “On a scale of 1–10, how grounded do you feel right now?”

• “Where do you feel that tension in your body?” Encourage noticing—not fixing.

Model calm and safety

Your tone, pacing, and nervous system matter. Regulation is contagious. Be the most grounded person in the room.

Redefine progress

Sometimes the biggest win isn’t a new PR. It’s your client saying, “My back feels better than it has in years,” or “That workout made me energized.”

PROGRESS STARTS WITH PRESENCE

Looking back, I know I wasn’t lazy, unmotivated, or non-compliant. I was dysregulated. My nervous system was doing what it was designed to do: protect me. But protection often comes at the cost of progress.

Once I learned how to support my nervous system—through daily regulation practices, nervous system resourcing, and creating safety from the inside out, everything changed. I felt energized, focused, clear, and capable (and even hit a new deadlift PR when I finally got back to the gym two years later).

If your client feels stuck, maybe it’s not about more discipline or better programming. Maybe it’s about helping their body feel safe enough to change. Because when the nervous system feels safe, results follow.

Rebecca Vigelius is a Neurosomatic Intelligence Practitioner and Certified Sleep & Stress Coach. Backed by 20+ years in leadership and communication, she blends nervous system science with real-world strategy to help high-achieving humans rewire their stress response—and finally feel like themselves again.

MOVE WITH INTENTION, THINK WITH CLARITY

WHY EVERY WORKOUT IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO TRAIN THE BRAIN—AND HOW TO INTEGRATE COGNITIVE COACHING INTO YOUR SESSIONS

By Matrix Fitness Canada, with insights from Dr. Karlie Intlekofer

How often do you lose your train of thought?

How often do you get into a work task, only to be pulled away by the ping of a notification?

In today’s attention-strapped world, mental clarity and self-regulation are just as vital as physical strength. At Matrix Fitness Canada, we know that exercise is not just a tool for the body—it has the power to strategically boost focus and self-control. And for personal trainers and group fitness instructors,

this opens a new opportunity: using exercise to help clients train their brains as well as their bodies.

Dr. Karlie Intlekofer, Global Wellness Researcher for Matrix Fitness, has explored the science deeply. Her conclusion is clear: “Exercise and self-control function in a helpful, two-way relationship.” People with stronger self-control tend to keep regular fitness routines—and regular fitness enhances executive function, including working memory and inhibitory control.

THE SCIENCE: BI‑DIRECTIONAL SYNERGY

This virtuous cycle was validated by a pivotal 2016 review published in Frontiers in Neuroscience, which examined the feedback loop between executive function and health behaviours. Not only does physical activity enhance executive functions like planning and attention, but strong executive function also supports long-term adherence to exercise and healthy habits.

For fitness professionals, this means one thing: you can leverage each client’s training session to create “small success loops.” Helping a client commit to consistent movement doesn’t just improve their fitness—it primes their brain for better self-regulation and discipline, both in and out of the gym.

ACUTE GAINS: IMMEDIATE FOCUS BENEFITS

While the long-term benefits are compelling, the acute cognitive benefits of a single workout are equally powerful. “One moderate session has a small but positive effect on self-control— enhancing focus, attention, and inhibitory control,” Dr. Karlie explains. These immediate shifts are often what clients notice most after a session.

This presents a timely opportunity for fitness coaches to reframe the purpose of a workout. Instead of treating it solely as a calorie-burner or stress relief, position exercise as a productivity tool. Suggest that clients squeeze in a 20-minute session before important meetings or exams. In your classes, use cueing that connects body and mind: “Fight for this next block—for your brain as much as your heart.”

CONSISTENCY BUILDS COGNITIVE STRENGTH

As fitness professionals, we emphasize consistency for strength, endurance, and mobility. But it’s just as powerful for cognitive growth. Dr. Karlie points out that regular training over time leads to measurable improvements on executive function assessments. The brain, much like a muscle, responds to steady, repeated stimulus.

Help your clients track not only their physical gains but their mental ones too. Are they finding it easier to focus on work? Are they making more thoughtful food choices? These markers matter. Encourage journaling or habit tracking that includes mental performance reflections. Even a quick end-of-day check-in— “Was I more focused after my workout today?”—can reinforce awareness and self-efficacy.

DESIGNING

BRAIN‑BOOSTING

PROGRAMS

You don’t need to overhaul your programming to integrate cognitive goals. Just shift your lens slightly.

PROGRESS ISN’T JUST ABOUT STRONGER LIFTS OR LONGER RUNS—IT’S ALSO ABOUT SHARPER

THINKING AND BETTER SELF-CONTROL.

Moderate-intensity cardio—like treadmill walking, cycling, or rowing— is ideal for promoting post-exercise mental clarity. Movements that require coordination, rhythm, or reactivity (think agility drills, ladder work, or complex choreography) further stimulate executive function by demanding attention shifts and quick decisions.

Recovery is equally important. Dr. Karlie recommends pairing cognitively demanding sessions with lighter activities like walking or yoga. This prevents overload and helps reset the nervous system, creating space for both physical and mental integration.

EDUCATE AND EMPOWER CLIENTS

Your clients want to know why something works—and that understanding builds trust and motivation. Teach them that exercise increases levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), dopamine, and anandamide. These are brain chemicals linked to improved focus, mood, and decision-making.

As Dr. Karlie puts it, “We’re not just training muscles—we’re training the brain’s mental filter.” Sharing this science during your coaching sessions or class wrap-ups helps clients connect effort with outcome.

CELEBRATE MENTAL WINS

Progress isn’t just about stronger lifts or longer runs—it’s also about sharper thinking and better self-control. After a client’s workout, ask: “Did you notice your focus shift?” Or celebrate moments where a client stayed consistent during a stressful week.

These are not small wins. They’re the kind of improvements that ripple into every area of life—at home, at work, and in how clients feel about themselves.

THE OPPORTUNITY AHEAD

As trainers and group fitness leaders, we have an incredible chance to move beyond muscles and into the mind. By embedding strategies that improve focus and self-control, we help clients not just survive their days—but thrive through them.

“The bi-directional nature of the relationship between self-control and exercise gives rise to a number of potential applications for both coaching and program design,” Dr. Karlie affirms.

At Matrix Fitness Canada, we’re committed to supporting fitness professionals with science-backed tools that transform how people move, think, and live. Because when we train with intention, we don’t just change bodies— we change lives.

Dr. Karlie Intlekofer, PhD, CNC, CPT, uses evidencebased practices to develop exercise programming and initiatives to support healthier daily habits. As a neuroscientist specializing in behaviour and exercise science, she focuses on the benefits of exercise, nutrition and habit formation for brain health and well-being.

BEYOND THE HOUR:

SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH THROUGH FITNESS

EMPOWER CLIENTS BEYOND WORKOUTS WITH MINDFUL, PURPOSE-DRIVEN COACHING

By Krystal Say

As fitness professionals, the impact we make is often measured by what happens in the hour a client spends in front of us. But what if the true value of our work begins the moment our clients walk out the door?

Movement is a proven catalyst for improving mental health. But more than reps or routines, it’s the way we

coach, connect, and cultivate a sense of belonging that leaves a lasting imprint on someone’s well-being. At TRX, this belief runs deep. With roots in its military heritage, TRX empowers all people to build strength, resilience, and adaptability because fitness is about more than the physical effort, it’s the foundation for building internal

strength, mental resilience, and emotional steadiness to meet life with confidence and care.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• The mental health benefits of consistent movement

• How fitness professionals can go beyond exercise to create deeper impact

• A four-week TRX challenge to help you build connection, confidence, and community

MOVEMENT AND MENTAL HEALTH: A LIFESTYLE LINK

Research shows that regular physical activity supports mental health in several ways:

• Reduces anxiety and depressive symptoms through the release of mood-enhancing chemicals like serotonin and endorphins

• Improves sleep, energy, and focus, supporting more stable emotional regulation

• Increases self-esteem and confidence through mastery of new skills or goals

• Enhances social connection, particularly in group fitness environments

COACHING FOR MORE THAN THE HOUR

At TRX, we believe that what happens in class is just the beginning. How we show up as coaches; our presence, our words, our ability to connect, can help clients build the kind of strength that supports them far beyond the workout.

Here are five ways to infuse each session with intention, connection, and impact:

Begin with why: Anchor the session in something meaningful. Ask a simple question like, “What motivates you to move today?” or offer a reminder, “Acknowledge yourself for showing up today, it matters, you matter. This is more than training your body, it’s a form of self-care.”

Integrate breath and awareness: TRX as a form of functional fitness invites presence. Using cues like, “Anchor your heels into the ground,” “Draw your shoulder blades together on your back”

or “Notice how your breath supports the movement,” can ground and guide clients into deeper awareness.

Create space for connection: Partner drills, small group warm-ups, or even a moment of shared reflection can foster belonging, a powerful support system for mental health.

Celebrate non-physical wins: Whether a client shows up on a tough day, tries something new, or stays present in a challenging moment, name it. These are the wins that build lasting confidence. Note: Be mindful when it might be appropriate to celebrate a win one on one with a client as opposed to a group setting.

Invite reflection: Before wrapping up a session or class you can add, “Take a moment to reflect how you feel now in relation to when you began,” or “What’s one thing you are proud of from today’s workout?” A short pause to reflect helps clients recognize the emotional and mental benefits of their practice and move into their day with certitude.

... [CLIENTS] AREN’T JUST BUILDING STRENGTH; THEY’RE DEVELOPING EMOTIONAL

1 Set Your Anchor

2 Build Capacity

3 Train Together

4 Sustain & Grow

Introduce TRX foundational movements: core stability, body awareness, and breath-driven control.

Progress movement complexity or intensity: layered strength, mobility, and control.

Introduce partner drills or team circuits: shared strength, accountability, and energy.

Blend TRX Yoga and TRX Pilates principles: mindfulness, recovery, and integration.

THE TRX THRIVE CHALLENGE:

A Four-Week Mental Health Booster

When clients engage in movement consistently, they aren’t just building strength; they’re developing emotional resilience, mental clarity, and a deeper connection to themselves and others. The key is helping people find a movement style they enjoy and can sustain. When we meet clients where they are, and foster a sense of belonging through community, we create conditions for growth that go far beyond the physical.

Designed to amplify the emotional and social benefits of TRX, the Thrive Challenge provides a structured, accessible way to build community, consistency, and confidence.

Who It’s For:

• Open to all fitness levels

• Ideal for small group training, studio series, wellness programs, or community events

• Can be delivered one to three times per week based on your format (one = community connection; two to three = deeper integration with themed sessions and reflection prompts)

Core Goals of the Challenge:

• Help participants discover the movement styles and formats that feel good in their bodies

• Create consistency through shared progress and accountability

• Build confidence, reduce stress, and strengthen the mind-body connection

• Cultivate a sense of belonging and support through community moments and group connection

• Offer opportunities for guided reflection to reinforce internal growth

Movement Notes:

• TRX Suspension Trainer is the foundational tool for week one and influenced throughout each week, emphasizing the active plank, full ROM, and scalability.

• Add tools like YBell, Bandit, or Rip Trainer in weeks two and three to challenge coordination, power, and movement variability.

• Week four should emphasize mobility, recovery, and mindful movement using TRX Yoga and Pilates as structure, not just stretch classes, but strength with control and breath.

Kickoff discussion: What brings you here? What’s one thing you want to feel more of?

Group prompt: What challenged you this week and how did you meet it?

Midpoint check-in: What have you learned from showing up for yourself?

Final reflection: What do you want to carry forward from this experience?

BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER

As we continue to evolve our approach to fitness, programs like the TRX Thrive Challenge can serve as powerful catalysts, not just for physical change, but for longevity and well-being.

If you are looking to lead with more purpose and impact, TRX offers educational courses that go beyond the basics and help you cultivate connections and coach with confidence. More than just techniques, they give you the framework to create experiences where people feel strong, supported, and seen. And that’s the kind of work that lives well beyond the hour.

Krystal Say is a Senior Master Instructor and head of TRX Yoga for the TRX Educational Team. With over 20 years of experience in fitness and wellness, she specializes in creating innovative programming that bridges movement and mindfulness. Krystal is passionate about empowering leaders to revolutionize wellness through intentional living and practical solutions.

RECOGNIZING THE LINK

BETWEEN HORMONES, MENTAL HEALTH, AND PERFORMANCE TO BETTER GUIDE YOUR CLIENTS TOWARD LASTING RESULTS

By Kelly Nolan

THE HIDDEN HORMONE FACTOR IN FITNESS

The fitness industry is now recognizing the strong influence hormones have on their clients physical, emotional, and mental health. Hormones can trigger spikes in depression, anxiety, and in some cases, nocturnal anxiety. As men and women age, workouts may be less effective due to the struggle with low energy and lack of motivation. Is it depression, hormone imbalance or a combination of both?

Hormone imbalance is layered and influenced by our internal and external environment and stress management. Unfortunately, our environment is full of hormone disruptors that interfere with our natural balance and fitness performance. These chemicals mimic hormones by binding to our internal receptors, displacing our own hormones. Our mental health and physical performance can be affected in the following ways:

: Testosterone disruption affects muscle growth and recovery and increases risk of depression and anxiety.

: Thyroid disruption slows metabolism and worsens symptoms of depression, anxiety, fatigue, irritability, and cognitive health.

: The imbalance between testosterone and estrogen affects motivation for training and sexual health linked to our mental state.

: Hormone disruptors affect our mental focus by interfering with dopamine and serotonin levels.

Our mental health is shaped by both internal and external factors, yet treatment often relies on inadequate testing and hormone replacement therapies that carry risks such as heart disease, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. This creates a cycle of frustration and unanswered questions. Doctors may also overprescribe antidepressants, which lose effectiveness as hormone levels shift through stages like perimenopause, menopause, post-menopause, and andropause, while the body develops drug tolerance.

Here’s a science-based approach to offset the impact of hormone

imbalance on our mental health and fitness performance:

; Support natural detoxification and the gut-liver axis with proper lifestyle and herbal supplements to detoxify the gut, liver, colon and kidneys.

; Hydration and elimination: Drink filtered water, eat high fibre food, and sweat regularly through movement and exercise.

; Test and correct: Balance hormones naturally with a saliva hormone test: A blueprint of five hormone levels providing a template for a targeted program of herbal supplements.

As wellness continues to evolve, fitness professionals play a key role in promoting physical health while bridging the gap to mental well-being, guiding clients toward lasting longevity.

Check out these canfitpro Global Trade Show specials and special webinar on natural hormone balance!

Kelly Nolan is a Pharmacist, Women’s Health Expert, and #1 Best-Selling Author. Her expertise and specialized training in Saliva Hormone Testing provide a blueprint to guide both women and men on their health journey. Avita Integrative Health provides a niche service with customized programs to balance hormones naturally and optimize physical, emotional, and mental health. Avita is building a turnkey franchiseready wellness model. Contact Kelly at 416-884-8444 or email kelly@aviaintegrativehealth.ca

RECLAIMING FITNESS

CHALLENGING MYTHS, INFLUENCER HYPE, AND OUTDATED IDEALS TO BUILD A HEALTHIER, MORE AUTHENTIC FITNESS FUTURE

By Dianne Bondy

I took my first public aerobics class in 1985 at a community centre in Burlington, Ontario. I was 15, moving and sweating to Whitney Houston’s How Will I Know—and I was hooked. Until then, fitness for me meant yoga, Jazzercise, or Richard Simmons tapes with my mom. It was that first class that showed me the joy of movement, but also introduced me to a fitness culture, where weight loss mattered

more than fun and functionality. By 20, I was teaching at the YMCA. It took me a minute to find my groove in the fitness space, but when I did, I was unstoppable. I’ve been leading classes ever since.

Over the years, a lot has changed. We now have fitness influencers with lucrative brand deals and celebrity status on streaming platforms. Some of these influencers are effective, while others are doing a massive disservice to the industry by peddling falsehoods, pseudo-science, and outright lies to gain clicks, views, and influence. As fitness pros, we need to use our influence for good. We must remember that we are here for our clients’ well-being.

We can all agree that fitness is for everyone, regardless of age, size, or body type. Equity in fitness is not just a statement, but a celebration of the diverse community we are a part of. Our understanding of exercise, physiology, health, and wellness has deepened, connecting us to our emotional and physical well-being.

We need to reclaim the fitness space, focusing on less influence and more connection. We can’t all look like our favourite fitness influencer, even if we train and follow their lifestyle routine perfectly. We are not monolithic; we cannot all look the same. Our focus can’t be all about “long lean muscles” or dishonest and false information. We cannot return to starving our brains and

WE NEED TO RECLAIM THE FITNESS SPACE, FOCUSING ON LESS INFLUENCE AND MORE CONNECTION.

bodies in the pursuit of a genetic ideal that is only available to about 1-5% of the population. We must remember that our emotional health is as essential as having a strong and flexible body.

Here’s how we do it.

TRAIN YOUR CLIENTS REALISTICALLY AND INTENTIONALLY

1. Toning vs. Building Muscle

• “Toning” is really muscle growth plus fat loss.

• Muscle definition comes from strength training, not light weights or endless reps.

• You won’t “bulk up” by lifting heavy— hypertrophy requires a surplus of calories, advanced training, and often more.

2. Teach Our Clients Why Strength Training Matters

• Strength training supports independence, mobility, confidence, and long-term health and well-being

• It lowers the risk of disease and reduces all-cause mortality.

• Looking good is a bonus; feeling strong and capable is the true goal.

3. Dispelling Social Media Myths

• Images online rarely reflect reality or accessibility.

• A six-pack or genetic aesthetics doesn’t measure our health.

• True fitness is about what your body can do, not just how it looks.

• Let’s normalize that fit bodies come in all shapes and sizes, and health and fitness levels cannot be assessed on looks alone.

4. Setting Sustainable Goals

• Focus on being the strongest, fittest version of yourself, at any size, shape, or ability.

• Prioritize feeling good, energy, vitality, and functional strength.

• Build confidence through consistent, purposeful training.

5. The Big Picture

• Health and well-being come from staying active, diversifying movement, and training with intention.

• Fitness is about longevity, resilience, and quality of life—not chasing trends.

Our goal as professionals is to encourage our clients to prioritize their health and well-being by staying active and diversifying their workouts— educating clients on how movement makes life better. Vitality is the spice of life, and helping our clients feel confident, competent and strong in their bodies is what it’s all about.

Dianne Bondy is a renowned social justice activist, author, and visionary in accessible yoga and Pilates. She is dedicated to making yoga and fitness equitable for everyone. Dianne’s transformative approach empowers people to embrace these practices by challenging traditional norms and fostering community. By educating instructors worldwide, she continues to revolutionize yoga, ensuring it resonates with diverse audiences everywhere.

MENTAL HEALTH & BRAIN FITNESS: THE FUTURE OF ACTIVE AGING

PRACTICAL

NEUROSCIENCE

TOOLS TO HELP YOUR CLIENTS BUILD RESILIENCE, IMPROVE PERFORMANCE, AND THRIVE AT EVERY STAGE OF LIFE

By Jill Hewlett

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, in any given year, one in five people in Canada experience a mental health problem or illness.

If that’s not concerning enough, by the year 2030, mental health issues are projected to become the leading cause of disability in Canada, with an estimated 2.2 million more people living with mental health challenges compared to today.

And, with this rise in mental illness, it is forecasted that the costs involved to manage it, may exceed the entire healthcare system!

Clearly this pervasive problem is not sustainable and is already causing a tremendous crisis, as we look at our modern-day mental health issues that run rampant through our homes, workplaces, schools, hospitals and longterm care centers.

As a society, we are being pressured to evolve and do things differently. We simply can’t look away. This is a critical and time-sensitive opportunity to collectively boost our brain health, cognitive performance and elevate our mental states, individually and collectively.

This means cultivating and strengthening healthy and supportive brain cells, neurological pathways and neural network. Brain Fitness for Active Aging is an amazing place to acquire the awareness, education, and strategies to do that. And as fitness professionals, you are in a prime position to lead the way, with the right knowledge and tools.

Your nervous system is the foundation of your health, affecting everything from mood and sleep, to digestion and immunity, to decision making and productivity. So, a dysregulated nervous system could be at the root of the problem, impacting mental health and overall well-being.

Shifting into a more calm, peaceful and empowered state requires the awareness of stress, understanding how to manage it, and cultivating a resilient

THIS IS A CRITICAL AND TIME-SENSITIVE OPPORTUNITY TO COLLECTIVELY BOOST

OUR BRAIN HEALTH, COGNITIVE

PERFORMANCE AND ELEVATE OUR MENTAL STATES

...

and healthy mind-body system, all of which are part of Brain Fitness for Active Aging online course.

This cutting-edge knowledge, plus quick, fun and effective approaches can be used in your fitness classes, with individual clients, and anytime you want to invest in and fortify your own mental health, cognitive functioning, and overall wellness. Results are immediate and cumulative over time.

While no one can control what has happened in the past, which molded their current brain wiring, they do have power now and going forward to over-ride old patterns and shift thoughts, feelings and behavior, which will inevitably lead to brain changes and new outcomes.

The more brain fitness strategies are implemented for self-care and selfmanagement, to calm your body, balance your emotions, and retrain your mental habits to a more optimal state,

the more effective you will be—in all areas of your life.

The key areas of learning and training include:

• Awareness-building processes

• User-friendly neuroscience

• Self-care & self-management techniques

• Nervous system support strategies

• Mindfulness and mindset shifts

• Mini-meditation journeys

Not only is this knowledge empowering and easy to apply, but it can also be life changing.

Combined with an array of tools that are quick, fun and effective, they can be used in your fitness classes, with individual clients and anytime you want to invest in your mental health and cognitive functioning, providing immediate and long-term benefits.

Here’s to making a difference and leading by example!

Jill Hewlett is a nationally recognized speaker, author, Brain Fitness Expert, Wellness Authority, creator of the Brain Fitness Trainer Program, and canfitpro Brain Fitness for Active Aging online course. In her keynotes and training sessions, Jill combines userfriendly neuroscience and quick, effective brain-building strategies to draw out the leadership, resources and resilience in individuals and organizations to support greater levels of productivity, wellness and success.

BUY 3 ADS, GE T 3 FREE

GET A FULL YEAR OF ADVERTISING FOR HALF THE PRICE STARTING AUGUST 1ST

REACH THOUSANDS OF FITNESS PROFESSIONALS AND ENTHUSIASTS LEARN MORE

THROWDOWN FXD BENCH

Compact yet powerful, it supports highimpact moves like step ups and box jumps while offering full-body workout potential. A built-in jack lever makes it effortless to roll into any position, while the dual articulating bench transitions seamlessly from flat to inclined. With integrated accessory storage, it’s the ultimate space efficient, performance driven solution for dynamic training environments of all sizes.

IN WALK YOUR WAY FIT,

Sarah Zahab details the most efficient, effective, and enjoyable ways to use walking as a tool to improve your fitness and boost longevity. You’ll discover how walking benefits the body on the physiological level and how to improve your walking workouts and walking speeds, no matter your fitness level.

With tips on injury avoidance, you will be prepared to recognize overuse injuries, recover from injuries, and prevent them from occurring again.

TRANSFORM YOUR FITNESS EXPERIENCE WITH THE M3i Studio,

featuring cutting-edge Studio Display and Ride by Color® technology for personalized training. With 72 gears, Bluetooth® & ANT+ connectivity, and a pedal-driven supercapacitor for eco-friendly, battery-free operation, it’s designed for studios, clubs, and medical facilities. Elevate performance, precision, and sustainability—experience the innovation that’s setting a new standard for indoor cycling.

ADD A UNIQUE, ENGAGING CARDIO EXPERIENCE TO YOUR FACILITY WITH THE MATRIX UPPER BODY CYCLE

Now all the people you serve can enjoy healthy movement with our versatile and inclusive Upper Body Cycles

An accommodating design with ultra-low starting resistance builds range of motion and strength with synchronous, asynchronous, and independent arm rotations.

Repeatable resistance and effortless adjustments make sure each workout is just right for the needs and limitations of each client, whether they’re seated, standing or in a wheelchair.

Bring our Upper Body Cycles to your facility and offer revolutionary movement for everyone.

THE COCOON WELLNESS POD

offers a deeply relaxing, fullbody wellness experience that promotes mental clarity and emotional balance. Through soothing heat, gentle vibration, and calming aromatherapy, it helps reduce stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue. The pod creates a tranquil space for mindfulness, encouraging a meditative state that supports overall mental wellness. Ideal for self-care, it helps restore inner calm, improve mood, and rejuvenate both mind and body in just one session.