Squamish has a new exercise studio that focuses on taking recreational to high level athletes to the next level with specialized equipment and targeted training methods based on the latest fitness testing methods.
Local ultra-athlete Jen Segger answered a few questions for me recently, while en route to a multi-day event, to fill me in on her studio space. Read on.
What inspired you to want to open a studio space?
This has actually been a dream of mine for a long time, just never thought the opportunity would present itself to make it happen. I’ve been coaching and running classes, teaching trail clinics, hosting run workshops etc in town for several years now. With a growing clientele and a very inspirational womens group, it seemed like the next step. Now I’m no longer limited by the winter months, Challenge By Choice has a home for all the awesome folks here in town to train out of and receive goal oriented training methods to apply to their goals.
Did you have certain clients in mind when you designed your space?
I work with athletes, weekend warriors, recreational enthusiasts and in general, people who are just here to get stronger, fitter, faster to partake in all the reasons why we choose to live in this town – ie – the great outdoor playground. My philosophy is simple: apply functional training methods and you will enjoy activity and sport that much more.
What offerings are unique to your space or your style that makes your space special in Squamish/Sea to Sky?
The new space is 2 levels. Upstairs is what we call “the lab” and it features the only 6 rider multi Compu Trainer system in the Sea to Sky area. This is where cyclists (of all abilities) can ride on their own bikes, hooked up to great software system and big screen tv that allows them to race against other riders, compete on real courses and focus on pedal technique. Indoor riding in the winter months just go a lot more fun. Riders will see a huge improvement in their power output come spring time. We’ve got a great treadmill as well upstairs. V02 analysis is available for both run and bike. Downstairs is an open floor concept gym for classes. High intensity classes to challenge and develop strength and the anaerobic system in addition to a 8 rider “spin studio” for spin bike classes. I will continue to be teaching a wide array of trail and run clinics as well as run technique development sessions. In the summer we will add SUP (stand up paddleboard) workouts in.
Tell us a bit about Nicola Gildersleeve, the other trainer in your studio?
Nicola is a a great addition to the studio as she brings an extensive knowledge of endurance training systems with her. She will be working with all personal training clients. She is an accomplished runner as well and so will be teaching and instructing in that area as well. There are also some great cyclists in this town who will be teaching some of the indoor spin sessions. You can read more about both of them here: http://challengebychoice.ca/pages/about-us.php
Do you have plans to offer SUP (Stand up Paddle-boarding) related programs/offerings?
You bet. Programs will start in May (when Alice Lake clears) and run through the summer. We are just working out some membership options so that people can add this great core strength training activity into their weekly training and workouts.
What is the studio website address?
Opening a new business is exciting and challenging…how does your background as an athlete influence how you approached this project?
I’ve been very fortunate to have been exposed to some of the best training methods that exist out there today. I’ve mentored under great coaches and now combine my years as an athlete with my knowledge of what really works to get fitter, faster, stronger, leaner and healthier. I’m excited to be apart of anyone’s journey forward who has goals and is committed to the process. Doesn’t matter where you are currently at fitness wise, it’s about where you see yourself ending up in the future. I think we offer a fresh approach to training, free of routine and old school methods. Conditioning has changed so much over the past years and we are excited to offer a new community for people to grow and develop in.
How do you keep yourself healthy when you are juggling racing & opening a business- is it challenging? what keeps you balanced, grounded, injury-free etc etc?
I’ve actually used my training recently to deal with the stresses of opening this studio! When I get frustrated or overwhelmed, I go for a run. When I can’t make a decision, I go for a run. The one thing that doesn’t slip for me is training. Its’ apart of my lifestyle and I need it. I think it grounds me.
Anything else? I operate on this motto: “You can have RESULTS or EXCUSES. Not both.”
Thanks for taking the time to answer these questions Jen! You can find her studio or contact her with the details below. LEARN ABOUT JEN’S COMPUTRAINER LAB HERE!
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