INSTRUCTOR OF THE MONTH - RUNGSIMA DUANGKAEW (CAKE)

Tell us about yourself

Hi! I’m CAKE from Thailand. My Les Mills Instructor journey began with BODYPUMP® in 2019, right in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. I followed that up with BODYATTACK®, a cutting-edge program that was relatively new in Thailand at the time. In fact, I was among the first batch of Instructors to introduce this program to clubs in Thailand. More recently, I also obtained certification in LES MILLS STRENGTH DEVELOPMENT™,” the latest addition to Les Mills’ new Limited Edition Collection workouts.

At present, I teach eight classes of BODYPUMP and one BODYATTACK class every week. It’s safe to say that I’m pretty much at it almost every single day!

What inspired you to become a Les Mills Instructor?

I chose to start my journey as an Instructor because, like many Instructors, I want to see people improve their health and happiness, and I want to be one of the people who inspires them to do so.

I started out doing Les Mills classes as a member of a club. Initially, I started with BODYCOMBAT, which was tough; but after the class, I felt incredibly refreshed and relieved of stress. I then tried another program after that but chose to avoid BODYPUMP back then because it seemed too challenging, with all the equipment and movements. However, after two months of doing other programs, I decided to give it a try as I wanted to tone my muscles and feel stronger. It was tough, but the Instructor, the music, and my friends always motivated me to push through.

I started taking two to three classes a week and eventually increased that to seven days a week. I fell in love with it and realised that I wanted to motivate and inspire others to find the same happiness. That was my turning point in my desire to become an Instructor.

What would you like to work towards in your career as a Les Mills Instructor?

I aim to be a role model for our members, guiding them in the correct way to work out effectively and safely.

I also want to inspire new people to see exercise as something enjoyable and achievable, rather than boring and overwhelming.

I would be very appreciative if I could inspire a club member to follow in my footsteps.

What do you believe are the key benefits of attending Workshops?

1. Understanding the theme and focus of the Release.
2. Absorbing the experience of experiencing the class and capturing my feelings during the session.
3. Generating ideas on how to effectively communicate the Release to my members to ensure they feel the same way I do.
4. Connecting with the Les Mills community and sharing the joy and energy during the Workshops.

What do you like most about In-Person Workshops?

I absolutely love the way I feel when I experience the new Releases at Quarterly Workshops. Each quarter, the Presenters bring so much excitement and energy – it’s truly inspiring! We also get to learn new techniques and delve into the details of each track. When meeting with other Instructors, we all share in the joy, and maybe even the sweat and tears – although I’m not entirely sure about that!

What do you like most about Online eWorkshops?

I primarily attend in-person events, but if I am unable to be onsite then I utilise eWorkshops as they help me to stay informed, educated, and help me feel ready to launch them in the club.

What do you find most helpful about the Quarterly Release Kits?

The resources provided are extremely beneficial for me to practice before the club launch. The music, videos, and choreography notes have significantly enhanced my understanding. They comprehensively cover all the essential techniques, supported by scientific data, which is particularly helpful for someone like me who is not an expert in exercise.

What tips can you offer to other Instructors to help them learn new Releases efficiently and effectively?

Listen to the music first, as the music is at the core of our work. Try to really feel it while doing the exercises. Take some time to immerse yourself in it.

Next, use VDOs to help with coaching phrases or sentences. If you're stuck on the words, refer to the videos for guidance.

Lastly, make sure to prepare and thoroughly practise before getting started. Pretend that you're teaching in a classroom. Don't just sit and watch the videos. Stand up, move, and actively practise coaching.

What do you love most about being a Les Mills Instructor?

I am absolutely in love with Les Mills programs! They have completely transformed my life, and these innovative workouts have significantly contributed to people’s personal and physical development. The new challenges that come with every new Release are incredibly enjoyable.

As an Instructor, I enjoy watching people return to my class and witnessing their progress. Many individuals who started with me on day one can now lift heavier weights, maintain better form, and take on more challenges with confidence.

What would you tell someone who is considering becoming a Les Mills Instructor, but does not quite feel ready?

If you find yourself displaying the following behaviours:

• attending the class every single day without fail
• eagerly absorbing every word the Instructor says
• finding yourself doing the choreography you learned in class, when you hear the music outside the club
• enjoying the music when you hear it outside the club
• following the music, trying to do the exercises on your own, and coaching yourself to improve.

…then it’s clear that you are passionate about group exercise!

Don’t be afraid of what’s to come; don’t overthink it; don’t convince yourself that you can’t do it; or that the risk of giving up is too high. Just be confident and step out of your comfort zone. There are countless people eagerly waiting for you to inspire them!

What would you tell someone who is considering becoming a Les Mills Instructor, but does not quite feel ready?

Follow Cake on Instagram @here.we.pump to share in Cake’s memories and experiences.

If you or someone you know has a passion for teaching Les Mills programs and a consistent history of buying new Releases and attending Quarterly Workshops, then you can submit a nomination for Instructor of the Month. To do so, simply email your name and Customer ID to marketing@lesmills.com.au.