Brian Blight: How The Locker Room Keeps Him Accountable

Brian has been an integral part of Pinnacle Oakleigh for over 3 years now and we have watched his journey with amazement. As a key member of the Locker Room team, Brian chats to us about his motivation and why team training helps him achieve his goals.

“Initially when I first joined the Gym (over three years ago I think), the reason I trained was to generally improve my fitness and build a bit of muscle after my earlier weight loss left me feeling weak. Whilst these fundamentally are still in the back of my mind, I now believe that I train for my physical and mental well being. I always feel good after a session. If I train first thing in the morning, it sets up my day and I actually feel less tired and more awake. When I train in the evening, again it sets me up for a good night and I always sleep better after an evening training session.

I chose the locker room because I want to train with others. If I trained by myself, I would pretty much find an excuse not to train. In The Locker Room you soon get to know the people you train with and develop a camaraderie and some sort of banter. Whilst exercising, as a motivational tool I usually try to match or beat other peoples speed, repetitions or weights. Also, if someone says to me “see you tomorrow”, I use that as motivation to turn up. I don’t want to feel like I have let someone down if I have made a commitment. Very minor, but probably my biggest motivation for me to exercise. 

I have tried many of the classes offered by Pinnacle and would recommend that everyone should try a new class every now and then. You may be surprised what really works for you.”

 

 

How Ilanna Stays Motivated

Meet our Studio Member Ilanna

Our little quiet achiever, Ilanna at Pinnacle Caribbean Park who when chatting to us about her training told us that she didn’t think it was very motivational. Well we beg to differ!

Ilana describes her life as very busy. Juggling full time work as a teacher, her partner studying and working full time as a critical care nurse plus spending lots of time cooking and spending time with family.

“My job is quite demanding and training provides me with an outlet after work each day for my mental and physical health. Training with a group of people and forming connections outside of my familiar circles motivates me as I look forward to seeing them!”

So what does the typical week look like for Ilana?

I always like to start off my week right with a Locker Room class on Monday’s after work. This always starts my week off right.

Wednesdays I attend Body Pump at Scoresby and love the CRX class there on Fridays too.

Saturday I like to take things a little slower with a sleep in and then a Reformer class at Caribbean Park.

Sundays are my rest days where we spend time with family and in the kitchen cooking.

Sometimes it’s hard to get to classes depending on if I get out of work on time but I try to go as much as I can and see it as part of my day. I go straight to the gym from work so I don’t have time to think twice about it. The feeling you get after a workout and the consistency and discipline that comes with going to the gym regularly is also a big driving force.

My biggest motivational factor is knowing the trainers will see you every week (and notice when you aren’t there!) as well as the people you usually train with. It takes me out of my comfort zone and makes me try things I definitely wouldn’t if I was training by myself.

Find out more about our studio membership options.

What is Reformer Pilates?

Have you heard of reformer Pilates but you are actually not sure what it is and why every is talking about it? Even though Reformer Pilates have been around for decades, it a relatively recent addition to a lot of peoples’ health & fitness routines and the buzz word for many given its range of benefits.

Hear from Emma, Pinnacle Wellness founder as she takes you through the different elements of a reformer class and shows how the different elements work together to create the ultimate full body workout.

“Sometimes the reformer can look like a pretty scary contraption, trust me you are not the first person to not know what bit does what!”

So what is the Reformer and how does this add to your workouts?

Adjust Your Resistance
Reformers have different levels of resistance springs, allowing you to adjust your workout to your fitness level or even to how you are feeling on the day!  Remember, more resistance doesn’t necessarily mean a harder workout, you can improve your practice with less resistance but more control.

Extra Support

Technique is so important in Pilates to avoid injury and maximise every exercise. The reformer acts as your support with the ability to utilise the front platform and bar to regain your balance if needed.

Adding a Little Extra with Straps

Just like the springs, the straps are there to add that little extra and can be used in lots of different ways improve your workout from adding more resistance to exercises focussed on balance and breathing.

Add a little more with TRX & Barre

Adding a bit more to your class away from the reformer helps to keep things fun and add that next challenge to your workout. The latest trend on reformer Pilates utilising apparatus like the barre and TRX improves balance and target smaller muscle groups to feel that burn!

“ Our wonderful instructors are on hand to show you step by step and encourage you to start slowing until you start to feel more confident and stronger. You will be a reformer Pilates expert in no time.”

Our latest Reformer Pilates studios is opening in June 2019 at Pinnacle Scoresby & Oakleigh. To find out more about our studio, click here

Love,

Emma Stallworthy xx

Pinnacle Wellness Founder

Meet Marianne, Pinnacle Ambassador

Marianne Bateman (54), has been a member of Pinnacle Scoresby for longer than she can actually recall! During this time she’s celebrated many triumphs but like most people has faced several hurdles, including a diagnosis of hypertension and diabetes. One thing that has remained consistent throughout is her great sense of humour! When asked what advice she’d give someone in her old shoes, Marianne replied “If even an old bag like me can do it, there’s really no excuse for anyone to not get to the gym!” Read on to discover the full story of our beloved Marianne’s journey at Pinnacle Health Club…

What are you most proud of during your times as a Pinnacle Scoresby Member?
I’ve become fitter and lost quite a bit of weight – 20kgs last year in fact!

What main changes attributed to these results?
Trying to come to the gym consistently and make it a lifestyle change, not a fad. I’ve also found mixing up my workouts with the help of the Pinnacle Coaches has rejuvenated my love for exercise, and eating less carbs has helped with the weight loss.

What has been your greatest challenge and how have you overcome it?
I lack confidence and worry about being judged but am learning to push negative thoughts aside. Being a part of Pinnacle Scoresby and working with the coaches to achieve my goals is definitely helping build my confidence.

Your proudest moment to date?
Reducing my sugar levels since the beginning of this year.

What keeps you motivated?
The end goal! I try to focus on how much better I will feel if I just keep going.

What have you learnt about yourself along the way?
Perhaps I’m fitter and stronger than I actually think.

How has Pinnacle Health Club helped in this journey?
Along with just being a friendly and welcoming club, the Coaches and group fitness instructors push me harder than I would ever push myself while at the same time encouraging me on. Positive text messages and reminders also make me feel like I’m important and not just another number.

What have been your favourite moments in the gym?
I love a good chat with the other gym members but the feeling of getting through a tough session – when I’ve had my doubts – is hard to beat!

What are you working towards now?
Getting rid of the last 15kgs