KYLE: “As a passive, skinny and slightly nerdy guy, gyms have always been foreign land in which I never intended to step foot. Kate was recommended to me through my physiotherapist after a year of dealing with a repetitive stress injury in my arm. The injury may not have happened if it wasn’t for my terrible posture, improper breathing habits, and stress levels. Lucky for me, Kate’s approach isn’t just about lifting heavy things.
I wanted to learn how to move properly. I couldn’t hinge from the hips, I didn’t understand how to ‘engage my lats’, I needed constant reminders to keep my shoulders back and to relax my unneeded muscles. I was paranoid about injuring myself again and would always report various discomforts throughout our sessions. Kate helped me understand why it was happening and would often be able to rectify it right then and there with a roller!
She always emphasized the importance of proper breathing and the equally important mental game behind conquering challenges. I feel WAY more comfortable in my body. The way I walk, breathe and simply move throughout the day have all improved greatly. I’m stronger both mentally and physically. Thank you, Kate!!!”
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Kate: “Kyle was referred to me by his physiotherapist because she identified that he would benefit from strength training and coaching to improve his posture and correct physical imbalances that were causing him pain primarily in his shoulder.
After assessing Kyle’s movement patterns, it was clear to me she was right so we went to work on learning about proper body alignment in various positions, more optimal breathing and learning about intra-abdominal pressure which is crucial in supporting the body when lifting weights.
After laying the foundation of movement patterning, we focused on refining technique of various exercises, with major emphasis on compound lifts like squats, deadlifts and pulling movements. We made sure to always include single leg and asymmetrical exercises to address any side to side weaknesses, as well as to support him in his day job. We spent time learning recovery and self-care techniques that would ultimately allow him to continue to train longterm without breaking down physically and would help him confidently treat any issues that may arise.
Since Kyle was new to the training world, it was a joy to help him navigate the gym and build his confidence with strength training. He always remained very open-minded, curious and keen to learn, which is a mindset recipe for success. He is very mindful in his movement and very receptive to feedback that he was able to apply quickly.
Kyle gained strength, muscle, confidence, was able to clear up his chronic pain and continues to strive to improve movements that are challenging such as overhead positions. Keep it up Kyle, you rock!”