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? Suzanne (aka Sissy Mitts, ugh)
How old are you? 59
How long have you been training and how did you get started? I started training with True North Strength and Fitness four years ago. I was always high energy and slender but never kept to a workout schedule. Then came my 50s… I was definitely concerned with my lack of strength and my co-worker recommended TNS. They were so patient with me and worked diligently to teach me proper form and this new strange language… “Turkish get ups, deadlifts, dead cleans, RFESS, goblet squats.”
What’s your sport and/or fitness background? I have tried yoga, Pilates, zumba, running, and aerobics with not much success but strength training has made me stronger and fitter.
What’s your most recent sport and/or fitness accomplishment? How long did it take you to prepare? Changing my mindset around fitness and making time to be more active has been a big accomplishment for me. Sasha and Guy’s coaching and constant motivation has pushed me to heights I never thought possible. Their passion for fitness and being part of the TNS community has really inspired me.
What does a typical training week look like for you? I strive for 2-3 sessions of strength training a week. I also like to get out on the local trails evenings and weekends, the Houston Trail is my go-to!
What’s your favorite exercise? Why? My favorite exercise is squats because I can see the results from doing a bazillion of them!
What’s your least favorite exercise? Why? Birthday sleds because they are no fun! Next year a party with cake and presents please!!
What’s the next sport and/or fitness goal you would like to accomplish? I really enjoy hiking and I feel so fortunate to live on the lower mainland where there are so many beautiful places to explore. I plan to hike quite a bit this winter with the goal of doing a longer, more technical hike in the spring.
What’s something sport and/or fitness related you would like to try, but haven’t? In 2017 I decided to take up golf but then I was in a wee accident and broke my clavicle. Now that I’m healed, I’m up for the challenge.
If you were a superhero, who would it be and/or what’s one superpower you would like to have? Wonder Woman – I love her kick-ass ways.
Favorite book. As I love to read and always have a book on the go this is a difficult question but I would have to say, Outlander – adventure, romance, and fantasy, what’s not to like. I also recently enjoyed reading The Nightingale, Where the Crawdads Sing, and American Dirt.
Favorite movie. Atonement – a movie about love, war, and betrayal with a twist at the end.
Favorite place you’ve ever traveled to. Cinque Terre in Italy was very special. We hiked some of the trails between the 5 charming villages while taking in spectacular views along the coast. In the evenings we enjoyed sunset dinners on the water and nightlife in the town square.
