Every month at True North Strength and Fitness we recognize the efforts of a community member that has broken new ground in their fitness game – either completing a significant event, taking their training to a whole new level, or stepping completely outside of their fitness comfort zone. We hope that by shining the spotlight on their fitness journey, you’ll be educated, motivated, and inspired no matter where you find yourself on your own.

Oh, and virtual high-fives for the featured members are always welcome – because the world can always use more good vibes and high-fives!

This month we’re shining our spotlight on…

What’s your name? Jennifer Stanley

How old are you? 48

How long have you been training and how did you get started? I’ve been into running for years and after several injuries, I realized I needed to add some balance and strength into my training. I started at True North about 2 1/2 years ago and I’m really enjoying it and what it’s done for me and my running.

What’s your sport and/or fitness background? I wasn’t into fitness or any sports growing up. About 20 years ago a friend asked me to do a sprint triathlon and that’s when it all started. It was the best feeling to cross the finish line and I was hooked.

What’s your most recent sport and/or fitness accomplishment? How long did it take you to prepare? My most recent fitness accomplishment was learning how to skate ski properly. I took a lesson two years ago and have been practicing what I learned in the last two seasons.

What does a typical training week look like for you? I strength train 2-3 days a week and get out for hikes, runs, and bike rides a couple of times a week.

What’s your favorite exercise? Why? My favorite exercise is the band-assisted chin up. I think it’s one of the most difficult exercises for me but I’ve improved so much that it makes me feel happy

What’s your least favorite exercise? Why? Jump squats because they make my legs burn!

Favorite time of the day to workout. I love working out in the morning because that’s when I have the most energy and it gives me a positive start to my day

What’s the next sport and/or fitness goal you would like to accomplish? I was signed up to do the 100km in the Valley GranFondo in June which is now canceled. So my new plan is to ride the same route on my own.

Did you get any cool results from your training that you weren’t expecting? If yes, what were they? One cool result I’ve experienced (besides muscles) is increased mobility.

If you were a superhero, who would it be and/or what’s one superpower you would like to have? I would love the superpower to be able to fly.

Favorite place you’ve ever traveled to. The British Virgin Islands where we did a Bareboat Charter. We self-captained the sailboat and explored the beautiful islands…. such an adventure.

What are three things you would take with you if you were stranded on a desert island? I would bring my husband, Stephen, drinking water, and a hammock

Which three words best describe you? Happy, adventurous, and caring (and according to my family… emotional haha).