Meet Shaundrea, an NFPT-CPT originally from Florida, but currently living in New York City working in finance, just starting out as a personal trainer. Here’s how she would like to introduce herself in her own words:
“I’m an average person just trying to keep up with the unexpected. I used to be ashamed of being average and fearful of the unexpected! I wasn’t the fastest nor the strongest, but fitness taught me that I’m exactly where I need to be. It taught me how to push myself, to be patient with myself, and to find a balance between both.
I may still not be the fastest nor the strongest, but I’m taking the journey there, one step and one day at a time. Please know there’s nothing grand about my life or story, however, it’s an ‘imperfectly perfect’ average life!
I used to be a fitness opposer, then I learned how to become the captain of my fitness journey. I started maximizing my workouts and enjoying them and fell in LOVE with fitness! This passion manifested into the need to share with others. Today, I strive to help others reach and exceed their fitness goals by breaking through their own mental barriers!”
How long have you been certified with NFPT?
I have been a trainer with the NFPT since March 2021, so only a few months!
Why did you choose NFPT?
I choose NFPT because it’s a safe haven for everybody from someone brand new to fitness to an advanced enthusiast. I didn’t feel overwhelmed with options or pressured. NFPT felt like a forever fitness home.
Why did you decide to become a fitness professional?
I decided to become a fitness professional because physical strength equates to mental strength. Fitness is the platform of changing your life, the foundation of achieving almost anything you want.
What is the biggest challenge for you as a personal trainer?
To realize that we’re not superhumans. To have grace for ourselves. To embrace the unexpected, to realize strength is defined by pushing yourself beyond the unexpected. To accept that the hardest challenge is to keep showing up.
What is your biggest accomplishment in the fitness industry?
My biggest accomplishment is obtaining my personal training certificate. I’m not a 10+ year fitness professional but I embrace that I am a beginner enthusiast, so can relate to others just starting their journey. I want people to know that you have to start somewhere and it’s never too late. Change is always possible!
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What has been your most rewarding experience as a personal trainer?
My most rewarding experience has been seeing the success of my clients. Helping people push past barriers they didn’t believe they could and watching their physical bodies change and their mindset shift provides a certain sense of satisfaction.
How has social media played a role in your fitness business?
Social media has helped me interact with other fitness professionals; this community is beyond supportive. It’s helped me step outside of my comfort zone and made me more confident as a CPT. If you visit my IG I’ve linked my bio to featured workout plans that my followers can access and reach out to me for extra guidance!
How has COVID-19 affected your business and career path?
COVID has positively impacted my fitness practice. I’ve completely embraced gymless exercise. No need to leave your comfort zone or no need to dedicate your whole morning or evening to working out. You can finally get back to the basics of a workout and enjoy it from anywhere you want.
Any advice for people thinking about a career in fitness?
Just do it! The first step is always hard, but you won’t regret it if the fire is in your heart to succeed. And remember everybody is a beginner once!
What does the future hold for you and for the fitness industry?
Changing lives. Helping people realize they’re so much stronger than they think. The strength is already inside of all of us, it’s just a matter of digging deep and reaching it. Fitness begins with the mind: If you believe you can, then you will!
NFPT Publisher Michele G Rogers, MA, NFPT-CPT and EBFA Barefoot Training Specialist manages and coordinates educational blogs and social media content for NFPT, as well as NFPT exam development. She’s been a personal trainer and health coach for over 20 years fueled by a lifetime passion for all things health and fitness. Her mission is to raise kinesthetic awareness and nurture a mind-body connection, helping people achieve a higher state of health and wellness. After battling and conquering chronic back pain and becoming a parent, Michele aims her training approach to emphasize fluidity of movement, corrective exercise, and pain resolution. She holds a master’s degree in Applied Health Psychology from Northern Arizona University. Follow Michele on Instagram.
