LMAP: What inspired you to become a Les Mills Instructor?
I’ve been a huge fan of sports, ever since I could move! Swimming, basketball, soccer, tennis, badminton, cycling, you name it - I’m a sports guy; I love to stay active!
Honestly, at first, I never thought of becoming an Instructor. It came about because my (then) mentor sat me down and had a heart-to-heart chat with me. It moved me and really gave me insight into how Instructors connect with others, which was what I loved doing, and it showed me how I could make a (lifetime) career in doing so.
At that time, I was a member at a local gym and loved attending their BODYCOMBAT classes. That was where I was introduced to Les Mills, and it was my mentor who recommended that I join their Initial Module Training to become an Instructor, so I could teach the class that I loved doing. I thought, “instead of paying for a gym membership, why don’t I get paid to do the classes I love and make a living from it? That would be win-win!” And the rest is history!
LMAP: Congratulations on joining the LES MILLS SHAPES™ Trainer team! Now that you’ve completed the training, what are your thoughts about the program?
It’s always exciting to do something new and keep evolving in this industry. And that’s how I felt when I joined the LES MILLS SHAPES Trainer team.
I have been doing Pilates for a few years now, so the program is right up my alley. Of course, I was nervous when I was first asked to become a Trainer, but after completing the training and learning all about this program, I’m really impressed at the overall look and feel to it. It gives a different dimension to all of my other Les Mills programs and delivers huge benefits, so I’m all for it!
LMAP: LES MILLS SHAPES incorporates Pilates exercises. What sets LES MILLS SHAPES apart from other Pilates classes?
Definitely, the concept of the program with the ‘beep’ marking the end of an exercise sequence. Also, how the sequences are designed within each track to mimic circuit training; and how the workouts complement one another; plus - as always - the awesome music!
LMAP: Is LES MILLS SHAPES suitable for beginner exercisers?
This program is delivered in the simplest way (ever!) out of any other Les Mills programs that I know. It is low impact but varies in intensity to cater for participants of all fitness and experience levels. Participants can adjust the speed in which they do the exercises; they don’t have to synchronise moves with the Instructor or to the beat of the music; the exercises are done in rounds using ‘beep’ sounds to indicate a new move is coming; and the movements are designed for progression as you move through each round. And all of this sets people up for great success and results!
LMAP: What do you love about being a Les Mills Instructor?
Being a Les Mills Instructor has given me an amazing foundation as a fitness professional, as I have learned how to speak well, how to analyse my teaching during a class and, most importantly, I now embrace constant self-improvement.
LMAP: What would you tell someone who is considering becoming a Les Mills Instructor, but does not quite feel ready?
I was never ready either! What helped me the most is that I had a friend complete my first ever Initial Module Training with me.
If you are really enjoying doing the classes and you really love interacting with people, and if fitness is something that excites you, and you are a music junkie, then go ahead and take the leap to become an Instructor - you won’t regret it!
Becoming a Les Mills Instructor, for me, was a life-changing experience. It inspired me in ways I couldn’t have imagined, and I will forever be grateful for that.
To follow AJ on Instagram check out @aldiejacob_aj
