Meet Briar
When I was 12 years old I was diagnosed with Perthese Disease (a degeneration of the bones) in my hip. I had my first surgery on my hip the same year. During my recovery I was introduced to physiotherapy. I decided then and there that I wanted to work with women to help them in their health and fitness goals, whatever they may be.
Since then I have had a second hip surgery and on-going pain, but I don’t let it stop me. I exercise everyday to continue to improve my range of motion and strength in my hip so that I can continue to be active. I have been working on these things my entire life and as a result I was able to do high impact sports as a child such as dancing and martial arts.
After high school I completed my physiotherapy assistant diploma and worked in a few physiotherapy clinics. This is where I decided that I didn’t like the way that the injury was treated rather than treating the whole person. I then went to George Brown College to be fully certified as a Personal Trainer and Lifestyle Coach.
Working in the large gym settings for more than two years left me unsatisfied so I started Fly Girl Fitness in the year 2000. I had found that most women that I came in contact with at these gyms were uncomfortable or unsure of what they should be doing in the gym and on the machines. By working in an atmosphere with other women who have the same fitness goals and are at similar fitness levels really helps women create a more comfortable environment where you can to focus more on your workout.
My goal is to work with women just like you from all walks of life and help you to improve your confidence by giving continuous support and encouragement so you can realize your true fitness goals. I will increase your level of fitness and quality of life by creating programs that are specific to your needs and helping you through all heath related issues. I will be there for you whenever you need me.
What I think that makes me different is that even in a boot camp of 15-20 women, everyone gets personal attention, motivation and modifications to exercises as needed for your fitness level.
Exercise has saved my life and has transformed who I am today. By exercising every day I maintain my weight and strength and I have avoided using raised seats in my house, canes and other aids that most people with Perthese Disease have to use on a daily basis.
I am able to walk, sit, sleep, jump, and do all of those “everyday” activities even with my hip disease because of my daily exercise. My activity levels really help me feel stress free, calm, confident, strong and mobile. I hope to help you to feel the same way.
