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All the right moves: The right instructor makes fitness fun

Anyone who’s stepped up for a fitness class knows the importance of the right instructor.
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Anyone who’s stepped up for a fitness class knows the importance of the right instructor.

Whether it’s the greeting at a new-to-you class or the spirited enthusiasm nudging you through the toughest part of your workout, the instructor sets the tone for the class, and how much you’ll enjoy it.

Saanich Parks and Recreation instructors offer all that and more!

“The breadth of knowledge, experience and enthusiasm our instructors have allows us to cater to a wide variety of interests,” says Saanich Fitness Technician Andrea Gandy, pointing to the array of classes accessible at all four Saanich recreation centres with your Access Pass.

“I often hear, ‘I didn’t know you can get so much at Saanich for one low price!’” she says.

A warm welcome: All Saanich Recreation fitness instructors are BC Recreation and Parks Association-certified, or equivalent, and many have additional group fitness-specific and personal training certifications. While that’s all essential, so is an inspiring approach.

Welcoming, empathetic instructors share a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to keeping classes interesting, Gandy says, pointing to one who has lead a Step aerobics class for an amazing 30 years, always finding new ways to keep it fresh for participants.

“It’s the fitness, the education, the music, but there’s also a real sense of community and friendships that develop,” Gandy says.

It’s easy to choose your class: The diversity of instructors also allows for a diversity of classes – from traditional aerobics and step to Bellyfit, Athletic Drill and Spintervals.

New to a class? Check the Active Living Guide or online fitness page for a description of different classes, including a “heart rate scale” indicating the class’s intensity level.

New class ideas are always welcome, and can be shared with an instructor, the fitness programmer or through comment cards available at each fitness centre, Gandy notes. If the right instructor and space is available, Saanich can try a pilot class to gauge interest. “That’s how we grow – through everyone who walks through our doors.”

Shared knowledge: With so much shared on social media, it can be difficult to decipher what’s right from the hype. Saanich instructors answer questions and share valuable tidbits, current fitness tips and wellness strategies for a more comprehensive program. “As soon as they walk through that door, our instructors become a mentor for all our participants,” Gandy notes.

Get your Access Pass today!

Your Saanich Access Pass offers 31 different drop-in activities weekly at four centres, including fitness, sports, swims and skates. Check out the activity calendars online, then buy your pass online or at any Saanich rec centre. Find a good selection of passes to choose from, with something for every budget, including a monthly payment plan for some passes. Learn more at saanich.ca/recreation

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Your Saanich Access Pass offers 31 different drop-in activities weekly at four centres, including a wide variety of fitness classes. Your Saanich Access Pass offers 31 different drop-in activities weekly at four centres, including a wide variety of fitness classes.
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