NCSF, Honours Life Science

Growing up, I was always involved with competitive sports including triathlons and volleyball. Since then, I have shifted my focus to strength training and powerlifting. My goal as a trainer is to meet my clients where they’re at, and empower them to see what their bodies are capable of. I strive to create a supportive environment where my clients feel confident and comfortable while working towards their goals.

Experience:

• NCSF-CPT
• Level 2 HLS
• First aid + CPR-C
• 2 years volleyball coaching
• 3 years strength & resistance training
• 8 years competitive volleyball

canfitpro-PTS, H.B.Sc. Life Sciences (c)

Growing up as a competitive dancer and swimmer, movement has always been an important part of my life. I started resistance training in my first year of university, and my own experiences with injuries and health challenges have shaped how I approach fitness today. As a trainer, I believe the gym should be a safe and welcoming space for everyone. Getting to know each client’s unique story has been one of the most meaningful parts of my experience as a trainer. My goal is to empower each other to feel proud of their progress and supported throughout their journey!

Experience:

• National Lifeguard Certified
• First Aid and Lifesaving Swim Instructor
• Multiple Years of Competitive Dance

canfitpro-PTS, Kinesiology

I’m a third year honours kinesiology student with a strong background in playing soccer having competed at the semi-pro level. Rather than learning about strength training by trial and error, I wished I had someone to teach me early on. This is what led me to volunteer helping individuals with chronic diseases to exercise, coach over 70 youth athletes to improve their game, and volunteer with McMaster Sport Med as a Student Field Therapist (sport medic). Through this, I learned how important educating others can be in helping them thrive in their athletic and fitness journey. Whether you’ve never gone to the gym before or you’re a high level athlete looking for that next edge, my educational training approach will give you the tools you need to succeed.

canfitpro, Life Science

Growing up, health and fitness has been a huge interest of mine. I started weight lifting in my first year of university, and I understand how overwhelming and intimidating it can be. Over the past few years, I’ve fallen in love with weightlifting and have learned so much more about health and fitness through my program. I love the positive and welcoming environment at the gym, It has allowed me to build my confidence and make so many friends along the way! My goal as a trainer is to help others feel empowered through the gym, and even carry that confidence into other aspects of life.

ISSA-CPT, H.BHSc (c)

I have always had a passion for sports and human performance. Playing baseball and rugby in high school introduced me to strength training at 14. As a Health Sciences student and varsity athlete at McMaster, I have been able to explore exercise physiology and sports science beyond the surface level. As a personal trainer, my goal is to help people build sustainable habits, enjoy training, and become stronger, healthier, more confident versions of themselves. I am passionate about creating a positive gym environment, and using resistance training to help people improve themselves, both in and outside of the gym.

canfitpro, Kinesiology

Hi, I’m Alayna! I grew up in Calgary, Alberta, and chose McMaster Kinesiology for the wide realm of research opportunities as well as the PACE program. My fitness journey began with home workouts during grade 12, and as I transitioned into university, the Pulse fuelled my passion for physical activity. My goal as a trainer is to help facilitate a genuine love for exercise, as well as help build confidence working towards long term personal goals.

canfitpro-PTS, B.Sc. Human Behaviour (c)

Growing up playing hockey, then competitively powerlifting for a few years, I have now shifted my focus to hypertrophy training. Exercise and building strength have always been such important parts of my life. As a trainer, I want to share my passion and knowledge of fitness and show my clients how to make the gym enjoyable for themselves.

Experience:

• 6 years of gym experience
• 2 years of powerlifting experience
• CanfitPro PTS

canfitpro-PTS, H.B.Sc. Life Sciences Origins of Disease Specialization (c)

As a second year student in the MSc Kinesiology program, my research explores resistance training, psychology, and overall well-being. My passion for health and fitness, combined with my knowledge of the life sciences, allows me to create a holistic approach that helps my clients build confidence and strengthen their growth mindset.

Experience:

• canfitpro Certified Personal Training Specialist (4 Years)
• Overall Fitness Experience (6 Years)

CSEP-CPT, M.Sc. Kinesiology (c)

I am a second-year Master’s student in Kinesiology with a strong passion for exercise, fitness, and research. My journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when I discovered how movement could enhance both physical and mental well-being. Since then, I’ve explored a variety of sports and activities while continuing to grow my knowledge through my studies and experience as a personal trainer. As a trainer, my goal is to help people feel comfortable and supported in the fitness community while working toward their personal goals. I believe fitness should not only improve health but also be an enjoyable and empowering experience, and I strive to make that a reality for everyone I work with.

Experience:

• CSEP Certified Personal Trainer
• 6 years of Gym Experience
• 3 years of Rowing Experience

canfitpro-PTS, H.BH.Sc. Health Sciences (c)

I LOVEEE all things active, whether it’s a fall hike, morning run, dancing, swimming, playing sports or lifting (of course)! Exercise has shaped me into the person I am today, and I am so grateful to share my love & appreciation for movement as a Personal Trainer! If you see me around the Pulse, please ask ANY questions about exercise form, how to use machines, etc. I’m always happy to help! (ps: my favourite exercise to teach is a deadlift…find me :b)

Experience:

• fitness instructor specialist (canfitpro)
• standard first aid and cpr c
• swimming instructor (5 years)
• 3 years gym experience
• student field therapist (2025)

NCSF, Honours Chemical Biology

I’ve always loved being active and making fitness a big part of my life. I grew up playing competitive tennis, and these days you’ll usually find me strength training, running, or trying out a new workout. I love challenging myself! As a trainer, my goal is to make fitness feel approachable, enjoyable, and sustainable. I believe that training should be challenging, but it should also fit into your lifestyle and make you feel stronger and more confident, physically and mentally. I especially enjoy helping people build confidence in the gym, learn proper technique, and create routines that they can actually stick with. I’ve experienced firsthand how the gym and exercise can positively impact your confidence and how you feel day-to-day so I’m beyond excited to help others build a positive relationship with fitness and become a stronger version of themselves.

canfitpro, MSc. Kinesiology

Hi everyone! I’m currently in my first year of my Master’s, focusing on nutritional epidemiology. My fitness journey really started during the pandemic, when working out began as a hobby and slowly became a huge part of my life. Over time, the gym became a community where I met so many like-minded people and realized exercise offers so much more than physical benefits. It has become an outlet for me and something that has had such a positive impact on my life! My personal training style mixes running and strength training, and I love incorporating both into my routine. I also used to competitively ski race, and outside of the gym, I enjoy playing piano and guitar. As a trainer, I hope to help create a more inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable, supported, and able to enjoy exercise in their own way.

NASM-CPT, Human Behavior

I’m a second-year Human Behaviour student at McMaster University with a strong interest in health, fitness, and the science behind exercise. I grew up playing sports like soccer and baseball, along with doing long-distance running, so staying active has always been a big part of my life. A few years ago, I was introduced to strength training, which sparked my interest in learning more about exercise and training through both research and hands-on experience. After 4 years, strength training has become something I genuinely love, and I’ve enjoyed learning more about how exercise can help people feel stronger and more confident. As a trainer, I want to share that knowledge with others and make the gym feel more approachable, especially for anyone who might feel nervous or uncomfortable when it comes to strength training. My goal is to help people feel confident in the gym and find a form of exercise that they actually enjoy, just like I did!

canfitpro – PTS, Honours Biology Research Specialization 

I am a 5th year student in the Biology Research Specialization program with a background in anatomy and physiology and I love all things physical activity! I am always up for a challenge and love experimenting with different ways of staying active! After completing my undergraduate thesis which examined patterns of diet quality in children, I have a greater passion for helping people build healthy habits that will last a lifetime. With four years of personal lifting experience, I understand firsthand how intimidating stepping into a gym can feel which is why I want to make sure that the clients I work with feel comfortable, confident and supported in their progress as I believe that living a healthy active lifestyle plays an important role in increasing our mental and physical health and wellbeing. My goal is to share my love of fitness with as many people as possible by helping them create routines that make exercise fun and exciting!

canfitpro-PTS, MSc. Kinesiology (c)

I am a first-year master’s student in Kinesiology, with a background in powerlifting and an overall passion for exercise. Although growing up playing sports both leisurely and at a competitive level I only found my love for the gym in my first year of my undergrad. I use the gym as a way to balance my life while also doing something to help me live longer and healthier. I started powerlifting a few years ago as a hobby and have competed at the provincial level, but I’m also very knowledgeable about different types of training that I’ve learned about during my degree in Kinesiology. I’m always open to teaching someone the basics and gaining confidence in the gym. I believe fitness should be accessible to everyone and it should be something you enjoy doing, to help build healthy lifestyle habits!

Experience:

• CanFitPro PTS
• 2 years of gym experience

canfitpro-PTS, MSc. Kinesiology

I am a first-year master’s student in Kinesiology, with a background in powerlifting and an overall passion for exercise. Although growing up playing sports both leisurely and at a competitive level I only found my love for the gym in my first year of my undergrad. I use the gym as a way to balance my life while also doing something to help me live longer and healthier. I started powerlifting a few years ago as a hobby and have competed at the provincial level, but I’m also very knowledgeable about different types of training that I’ve learned about during my degree in Kinesiology. I’m always open to teaching someone the basics and gaining confidence in the gym. I believe fitness should be accessible to everyone and it should be something you enjoy doing, to help build healthy lifestyle habits!

canfitpro-PTS, Honours Life Sciences

Contrary to what my picture might suggest, I’m actually full of smiles. Outside the gym, I’m usually listening to a concerning amount of Lil Uzi, Carti, and Ken Carson, painting, or attempting a new protein baking recipe that probably won’t taste very good. I grew up playing competitive basketball until a rotator cuff injury led me through rehab and eventually into the gym. Almost five years later, I’ve tried pretty much every style of training, but bodybuilding and hypertrophy are what I enjoy most. I’ve also never had a personal trainer – most of what I learned started with gym bros and a lot of trial and error. Over time, I learned to separate what actually matters from all the extra noise. That’s a big reason I became a trainer. Fitness can get overcomplicated fast, especially with all the conflicting information (and propaganda) online. Ultimately, training should be something that adds to your life, not something that takes it over.

canfitpro, Health Sciences

Growing up playing basketball and later diving into weightlifting, fitness started for me as a pursuit of aesthetics, but it quickly evolved into a lifelong investment in physical and mental well-being. My training style prioritizes building real confidence, sustainable strength, and a genuine joy for movement that moves past mere obligation into a true want to participate. Whether we’re building functional strength or working toward your personal goals, my goal is to help you feel strong, capable, and excited to move.

Canfitpro PT, Honours Kinesiology

Growing up I was always involved with sports and loved physical activity. However, in high school I sustained multiple head injuries which forced me to stop and I turned to exercise as my new hobby and it turned into something I wanted to pursue academically and professionally. Personally I love strength training and I love a good leg day doing some barbell squats. Exercise has helped me keep a clear mind and blow off steam and that is my approach to personal training; find some form of exercise that you like and do it! My goal as a Personal Trainer is to be a friend and a trainer, sharing my passion for fitness with clients and hopefully inspiring clients to start their fitness journey. Everyone has a place in the gym and my objective is to help everyone become the best version of themselves.

Experience:

• 5 years of coaching experience
• 5 years of lifting experience

canfitpro-PTS, PhD Biomedical Engineering

Physical activity has helped me in all aspects of my life, playing a central role in my physical health and mental health. As a PhD student with a passion for weightlifting, I prioritize physical fitness alongside education to maintain my physical and mental wellbeing. As a trainer, my goal is to motivate clients to become the best versions of themselves, maintain a healthy lifestyle and provide a safe, nurturing environment to learn and grow. Physical fitness is all about finding the exercises you enjoy and trying your best each and every day. Some days your “best” might look a little different and that is okay! Experience: 5 years of personal training experience, 11 years of gym experience including resistance training and cardiorespiratory training

Experience:

• canfitpro Certified Personal Training Specialist
• 4 years of personal training experience
• 10 years of gym experience including resistance training and cardiorespiratory training
• Honours BHSc Biochemistry Biomedical Research Specialization Co-op (complete)
• PhD Biomedical Engineering (current)

NASM-CPT, H.B.Sc. Kinesiology (c)

I’m a third-year Kinesiology student with a passion for making fitness feel approachable and genuinely enjoyable. I grew up playing basketball and have always loved being active, but for a long time, my weight began to get in the way of both my performance in sport and my overall health. That became a major turning point for me, and I eventually lost over 80 pounds through changes to my training, nutrition, and lifestyle. That journey was far from linear, and I learned a lot through both the successes and the setbacks. More than anything, it taught me that living a healthy lifestyle can be simple, even if it isn’t always easy. That perspective is a huge part of why I wanted to become a personal trainer. I“I want to help others find an approach to training that works with their lifestyle, rather than having to change their lifestyle to revolve around training. My training style focuses on meeting people where they’re at and helping clients understand the “why” behind what they’re doing. Outside of the gym, I still love basketball and pretty much anything that keeps me active, whether that’s hiking, playing sports with friends, or going for a run!

Experience:

• 5 years of gym experience
• NASM-CPT

canfitpro-PTS, Kinesiology

In 2022, a chronic illness diagnosis changed how I understood movement, sparking a deeper enthusiasm for functional fitness: training that builds real strength for real life. I believe a fitness program reflects an ongoing, internal dialogue with our body and mind, one that should always be grounded in love and respect for yourself, never guilt. Drawing on my Kinesiology background from McMaster, I prioritize safe, proper technique in every session. My experience spans coaching older adults at a caregiving centre and mentoring peers within my program.

NCSF, Honours Life Sciences

Sports have always been a huge part of my life; whether that was the fast-paced grit of competitive hockey or the high-intensity endurance demand of cross-country mountain bike racing, I have always loved getting active. Nothing is more empowering than reaching a milestone you’ve worked hard for, which has proven especially true in my own journey through recreational powerlifting and bodybuilding. That’s why I became a trainer. My biggest goal is to make the gym feel like a space where you actually belong, no matter where you’re starting from.

ISSA-CPT, H.B.Sc. Kinesiology (c)

Mac Kin alum and back for Physio school! Sports introduced me to lifts at the gym. My goal is to educate and help you make a life-long change to reach your goals. I believe that slow & consistent effort comes before perfection, and I hope my clients build those small habits to no longer need me in the long run! You get what you put in.

Experience:

• Fitness Instructor Specialist (Canfitpro)
• 5 years of gym experience
• 4 years of Athletic Conditioning Training
• PACE Placement Student
• 2 years REC Sports coach Lead

canfitpro-CPT, Political Science Sp. Public Law & Judicial Studies

Hey everyone! I’m Sabastian, and I’m excited to be part of the team! I’ve been training since 2021, and my fitness journey has evolved from cardio focus to a more balanced approach combining hypertrophy, strength, and conditioning. My current training style is powerbuilding, with a focus on hypertrophy while still chasing progress on main compounds like squat and bench. Along the way, I’ve learned from a variety of gym communities, and my biggest takeaway is simple: training should be something you genuinely enjoy. Outside the gym, I’ve played baseball, basketball, and boxing, and I’ve been playing piano since I was 4! I have extensive Marvel and Star Wars knowledge (quiz me), I’m a massive LeBron James fan, and support the Blue Jays, Lakers, and Bills. I also have a slight Chipotle obsession… (50K+ points). If you see me at the front desk, on the floor, or working out, come say hi! And if you hear Reggae, Soca, or Michael Jackson playing, there’s a good chance I’m nearby!

canfitpro, Kinesiology

I am a third year Honours Kinesiology major with a passion for sharing my knowledge with others. Growing up I played a variety of sports including hockey, curling and soccer, so being active has always been an important part of my life. I believe there are many ways to reach the same goal and that there is a form of exercise that everyone can enjoy. Being in the gym is more than lifting to look a certain way; it is an important part of living a healthy, balanced lifestyle and supporting your mental well-being. I understand how the gym space can feel overwhelming. My goal while working with clients is to help them build confidence, comfort, and knowledge in the gym so they continue their fitness journey. Experience: 5 years gym experience Student performance coach 4 years as a Swimming instructor + lifeguard

ISSA-CPT, Kinesiology

Growing up, I played a lot of sports, and they were always a way to make friends, take a break from school, and have fun. After breaking my ankle twice and then going through the pandemic, I realized how much I missed having movement in my life. I started going to the gym wanting to get stronger, but over time, it helped me feel more like myself again. I built confidence, started taking better care of myself, and found a routine that carried into other parts of my life. Each small step made a difference, and it’s been one of the best things I’ve done for myself. That’s what made me want to become a trainer. I hope to help you find movement you enjoy, build habits that work for you, and discover what you’re capable of so you can carry that confidence beyond the gym.

canfitpro-PTS, B.Sc. Kinesiology (c)

Hi, I’m Shyam, a 5th-year Kinesiology student at McMaster and a certified CanFitPro Personal Training Specialist. My passion for fitness started through playing competitive soccer for many years before transitioning more into the gym. I wanted to become a trainer because I enjoy helping others feel more comfortable in the gym and discover what they enjoy about fitness. My training style focuses on strength and hypertrophy, while creating an environment where clients feel comfortable asking questions, trying new things, and building confidence. I love helping people work toward their goals while developing a positive and sustainable relationship with fitness. Outside of the gym, I enjoy playing and watching soccer, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family.

Experience:

• Student Performance Coach
• Student Clinical Therapist
• PACE Volunteer
• Standard First Aid and CPR-C
• 4 Years of Gym Experience
• 4 Years of Competitive Soccer

CanFitPro-CPT, H.B.A.Sc. (c)

Hi! I am a third year Arts and Science student with a huge passion for exercise and sport. I grew up as a competitive swimmer and have more recently developed a love for biking and running––I am currently training for a half Ironman! My passion and love for sport has taught me a lot about the importance of building strength to both prevent injury and train more effectively. My time in the gym is what has allowed me to stay so active, and I love to help others develop the same confidence in movement!

Experience:

• canfitpro-CPT
• H.B.A.Sc.

canfitpro-PTS, H.B.Sc. Biology – Physiology Spec (c)

I am a third year bio student with a passion to help others improve their well-being through movement and lifestyle. Coming into McMaster, through my program and lab experience, I have gained a strong background about the importance of resistance training and how I can apply current knowledge to help clients train effectively and with purpose. I myself rediscovered my passion for lifting, and it became a source of strength and confidence for me. I want to help you break the barriers, find joy and purpose in movement, and make those small changes that go a long way for our mental and physical health. In my free time I love to dance, take a walk, read a good book or (attempt) a new dessert recipe.

CSEP-CPT, H.B.Sc. Kinesiology (c)

My background in Kinesiology and passion for sports and fitness inspired me to become a personal trainer and support others on their fitness journeys. From years of playing competitive basketball to discovering a love for long-distance running, I have experienced the pure enjoyment of moving my body, pushing my limits, and achieving big goals. Through customized training plans and creating a welcoming environment for members, I believe everyone can experience the joy of training both the body and mind. I hope to continue sharing my knowledge and experiences to help others find the same sense of fulfillment, confidence, and motivation through fitness. On a side note, I enjoy bouldering and playing all kinds of intramural sports!

Experience:

• CSEP-CPT (2 years)
• Standard First Aid and CPR C
• Student Field Therapist (since 2024)
• 3+ years of gym experience