Day in the Life, Greater Port Macquarie Focus Magazine, January 2016
While many of us are still relishing the festive season, and all the eating, drinking and merriment that comes along with it, others have their sights set firmly on their health and fitness goals for the New Year.
Personal Trainer Graeme Lawlor encourages everyone to enjoy the holidays and then go with the 80/20 rule.
“80% of the time eat as close to nature as possible and fill your diet with lean and unprocessed foods. Drink plenty of water and exercise regularly. The other 20% of the time, enjoy whatever life brings.”
Graeme became a personal trainer 10 years ago and has conducted more than 40,000 personal training sessions in that time. Some of his clients have been there since the beginning, and their regular sessions have become part of their weekly routine.
A brick layer by trade, Graeme also ran a timber floor business. He was involved in competitive sports which involved a lot of gym work and says becoming a personal trainer was a natural progression, especially as he loves helping people.
“I initially studied for my certificate 4 in fitness, and since then I’ve acquired several fitness related qualifications, from working with the elderly to cross fit qualifications.”
He trained in the gym for 24 years and competed in numerous body building competitions, so strength and conditioning is a real passion.
“The best changes I see in people is when clients take up strength training and follow a meal plan not unlike a body builder.”
Turning to a personal trainer to provide guidance, information and accountability can help people achieve their goals.
“For busy people it’s about getting the most out of your training, and it can be a great release or time out from your busy life. For others it’s about having someone to listen without bias. People have usually tried many things and mostly failed. We help people to believe in themselves and show them that they can do it!”
The day in the life of a personal trainer involves PT sessions, staff management, sales, admin, book work and the occasional counselling session.
“Empathy is the most important skill for a PT. You have to be able to relate to everyone, to be a good listener and also have the ability to sometimes give people the harsh truth.”
Helping people achieve their long term health goals and improve their lifestyles to be fit and healthy is incredibly rewarding for Graeme who moved to Port Macquarie from Cronulla 13 years ago.
“Here we have time to be fit, healthy and active. I fish, mountain bike and try to surf. So Port is perfect.”
Every Body Personal Training is running a Fit Bit Challenge to help people stay on track in the New Year. If you’re up for the challenge there will be loads of prizes, and best of all, great results to be achieved. Call 6584 5001 for all the info.