When I was a little girl, I would go to aerobics class with my mom.  The funny thing is, the doctor’s wife was the one that instructed the classes, and would bring me a little chocolate bar or a bag of chips to class, and I would sit in the corner so quietly eating my “snack” watching these women exercise! I remember thinking to myself in class … “how much fun is this! A bunch of girls standing around and dancing to music!”   I recently found a letter my mom wrote talking about me coming to class, and she said ” Rachelle was really shy at the classes, but when we get home, she puts shorts and a t- shirt on, rolls down her socks, puts on a tape and just goes to it! I really get a kick out of watching her!” I’m glad I could entertain my mom!!

I didn’t find out until I was older that my mom was diagnosed with a brain tumor when she was pregnant with me.   I couldn’t imagine, having 4 children, the 5th one on the way, and getting this devastating news. I knew my mom was sick.  We visited her in the hospital often, but I didn’t understand what was going on cause I was so young.   My mom was such a devoted wife, mother, nurse and friend.  She was so caring and put others needs in front of her own.  It really amazes me that even though she was dealing with a brain tumor, she still lived an active lifestyle and went to aerobics class … what a strong lady she was!  I wish that I got to know my mom better. Unfortunately, she passed away when I was 7.   I do give credit to my dad for raising us 5 kids, and to my siblings that helped each other out, especially my sister, who I have always looked up to and admire!  There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of my mom, especially now being a mom myself and wondering “What would my mom have done in this situation?”

MY MOM!

Well .. I guess going to an aerobics class at the age of 3 started my journey on exercise and health.  I was always active in sports growing up and  loved being part of a team!  I tore my ACL in my knee in grade 10 and was introduced to the rehab world. I had such a positive experience rehabilitating my knee and knew at that point I wanted a career in the health industry.

Off to the University of Saskatchewan I went to get my Degree in Kinesiology! I loved every part of University .. learning about the body, physiology, nutrition, and of course the social life!  My first job as the head Exercise Therapist in Saskatoon sure kept me on my toes and made me think about everything I learnt in school. I dealt with every different type of client: MVA, WCB, pregnant women, postnatal moms, athletes, elderly and the general population.  I was challenged with each new case, and loved every moment!

I decided to move to Edmonton and have been here for over 10 years now.  I have continued to work with a variety of clients, of which pre/ postnatal have been one of my favorites!  I have continued with my education over the past 13 years, becoming a CSEP – Certified Exercise Physiologist, Pre/Postnatal Fitness Specialist and being a member of AFLCA.  I am very blessed to have worked with and continue to work with amazing people that allow me to be part of their journey to a healthier lifestyle!

I am a mom to 3 beautiful girls, aged 5 and the twins are 3! I feel that I can relate more to pregnant women and moms after my experience with being pregnant, giving birth and all the ups/downs that come with being a mom!  I love that I am trying to be a positive role model to my daughters! I feel true happiness when they come and exercise with me and when we talk about why we exercise and eat healthy … they tell me, “it’s important to be healthy and have a healthy heart” xoxox.  Maybe they’ll be the next generation of fitness leaders!

I truly love what I do.  I love that through my classes, I am connecting women, moms and families to one another!  I have such a passion for educating my clients on how to live a healthier and more enjoyable life!

I look forward to what the next months and years bring as I am constantly looking at ways on how to create a community where we can encourage each other on our health and wellness journeys!