What do you do that contributes most significantly to your overall wellness?

I try to get eight hours of sleep every day and try to sleep and wake up at the same time every day. I have realized that sleep is one of the most important things for a balanced state of mind. In addition to this, I workout three times a week and try to do cardio about five times a week.

How or why did you start with it?

I was referred to the wellness centre through my counselor at the MacEwan Wellness and Psychological Services. I was struggling a lot with my mental health and was in a dark place. Working out has not fixed all my problems, but I have found a place where I can just be with myself for a few minutes without thinking of anything else.

How has MacEwan University Sport and Wellness helped you along the way?

Meagan Stewart, a trainer at the MacEwan University Sport and Wellness, trained me and helped me learn different exercises. She showed me how to use the machines along with teaching me exercises I could do at home. Now, I can go to any gym and feel confident in what I am doing and in using the machines present.

What's been your greatest challenge with it along the way?

Consistency is definitely something I have struggled with. Due to frequent sickness, I am not always able to make it to the gym or work out at home. However, Meagan's training style has made me look forward to coming to the gym instead of dreading it, so I bounce back quicker than before now.

What's your favourite memory of this journey?

My favorite memory of this journey has been the first session I had with Meagan. I was doing a dumbbell pullover and I had a sense of immense relief and gratitude for being present with a trainer who really understood how I needed to be trained. She helped me go slow, which in the long run, has made me want to continue coming to the gym.

What are the two most significant gains you've made from doing this?

Better mood and increased energy. I struggle with my mood, and that has impacted everything in my life, including academics, relationships, routines, and finances. In the past, I would look towards external support for a good mood; now I feel I can regulate my own mood by going to the gym and exercising, even if it is for 30 minutes. My energy level has improved; I am more attentive in class, feel more present in my conversations, and even manage my finances a little better now.

What wisdom would you like to share with someone thinking about doing it?

Please go for it. The gym at the Sport and Wellness centre is one of the most friendly ones I have ever been to. As a student, you can go to the Value-Added classes, which are absolutely free. I know it can be intimidating, but you will be fine once you set foot in the gym. Additionally, you can join the Fit Buddy program and workout with a partner to get familiar with the gym.
All I want you to know is that the gym is not just for athletes; it is for everyone. As students, there is a lot we are struggling with; you will thank yourself for the 30 minutes or an hour you spend on yourself by being at the gym.

What’s next for you?

I want to pay this forward by encouraging as many people as possible to include exercise in their daily life. I want to share the message that exercising or working out at a gym does not have to be daunting. I truly believe in the positive effects of exercising, and I want to share this with everyone who may or may not be struggling as me. Thank you Meagan and Sport and Wellness.