Student Spotlight: Lauren King

Lauren King is such a worthy recipient of our Student Spotlight award and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate her recent graduation and achievements!  Throughout her studies, Lauren has showcased her sheer determination and passion to be a caring and quality fitness trainer, no matter what obstacles came her way!

LET’S GET TO KNOW LAUREN…

Could you tell us a bit about your journey in becoming passionate about health and fitness?

With my own personal experience, I just wanted to help people and make them smile and enjoy everyday living. I’ve always liked dancing, outdoors, having a go. After I had a stroke at age 19, I was determined to walk and talk again and wanted to find out everything I could do to help my rehabilitation. I was fortunate to have support of family and friends.

How has being involved in the fitness industry had a positive impact on your life? 

I think physically and mentally it has a huge impact on my life with helping the residents, clients and myself and understanding that there is more to life.

What are your goals now that you’ve graduated?

Helping other people overcome their health conditions, whether it be physical or mental. For years I saw an Exercise Physiologist who helped with my recovery and she offered me work experience with her and kayaking. I worked towards gaining employment with a PT and am also working towards my SUP (stand up paddleboard) Instructor certificate.

How did you enjoy your study journey?

I loved learning new things every time I opened my book and doing work experience as well, which helped me get a feel of the clients and what they needed, both mentally and physically.

What did you find most challenging about your studies?

This is my first experience studying online and by distance learning and I found that hard not being face to face or in a group because I am my own teacher. After my 3rd operation I had has STML (short term memory loss) which made learning and navigating the computer difficult.  I greatly appreciated the support the Onfit tutors gave me, especially towards the end when I was ready to give up. Something told me ‘don’t give up’ and I listened to my thoughts and beliefs and now I’m doing what I love… helping people and making them enjoy life in general.

What did you enjoy the most?

Making me become the person who I am and enabling me to help people overcome barriers. A huge sense of achievement and self-worth was very valuable to me. Loved seeing modules ticked off as done and now I’ve accomplished it I feel so happy with myself and Onfit for making me believe and the determination I have accomplished.

What study habits/tips could you share with someone considering or who’s just started their studies with us?

I think they need someone in the industry to talk to face to face.  You need time management skills to fit it into a busy life. But that is just me!

What advice would you have for someone thinking about studying and getting qualified to work in the Health & Fitness Industry?

Have to have patience with yourself and be disciplined enough to set aside time. You need to find a mentor who has time to help at times.

And “Thankyou” to Onfit for making me believe in myself and for starting my journey in the Fitness Industry. As my employment opportunities were somewhat limited I’ve found something I enjoy and I can share my knowledge with the people who are willing to make their lifestyle healthy, active and most importantly their well-being in general.

So… Thankyou Onfit. There is no other word for it but Thankyou 😊

HERE’S WHAT THE ONFIT TEAM HAVE TO SAY ABOUT LAUREN…

“Lauren has been an absolute pleasure to get to know! She has a ‘never give up’ attitude and has approached all of her studies with a keenness and determination that has been inspiring.

Lauren was referred to us by a mutual connection in the fitness industry who recognised her talents and knew she could achieve great things, with just a little bit of support along the way.

The journey hasn’t always been easy, but Lauren’s desire to be her best and to create a future helping others has kept her focused and committed to her study.

She will be a wonderful asset to the fitness industry, and to anyone lucky enough to work with her.

We couldn’t be more proud of you Lauren! Congratulations on completing your Certificate III in Fitness!”– Rhonda Bacchi, Quality Manager