We have many amazing affiliates that we got to work with and talk to on a daily basis. Most fitness professionals will stay in the personal training aspect of the industry from 3-5 years. Here at NFPT, we have been fortunate enough to have a bunch of trainers maintain their certification with us for 20 or more years! For our 25th Anniversary, we would like to publicly recognize those trainers who have been faithful and loyal to us from the very beginning. Today we would like to recognize Sheila Berrios.
How long have you been certified with NFPT?
For the last 20 years.
Why did you choose NFPT?
NFPT was affordable, easy to work with and I like they you provide us with updated information in the industry by email. It is hard to travel to cities to get your CEC’s with some other certifications.
Why stick with NFPT? Why so long as a personal trainer?
I stayed a trainer for many reasons, I fell in love with seeing how I could change peoples lives by changing their health. I loved the places that I have trained and the flexibility of the hours.
What made you decide to become a personal trainer?
I was pretty obsessed with working out and the human body and people were interested in how I was achieving my goals. They kept asking me questions about how I train and what I eat so it just kind of fell into place for me.
What changes have you seen in the industry?
Technology, so many new methods of training and equipment — really keeps the workouts challenging, which I love!
What has been your hardest challenge as a personal trainer?
Not being able to help everyone. Some people come to you but they are just not ready to make a change so it is a struggle to keep them motivated which is a disappointment to both of us.
What has been your most rewarding experience as a personal trainer?
I have two. First, I trained a lady who lost 100lbs. We became friends and set a goal to race a marathon in Ireland for Team in Training — so we went together. I jogged it and she walked it but we met up at the finish. Second I trained a gentlemen who was only 34 years old with high blood pressure and his doctor immediately wanted to put him on medication. He said no to the meds and I began to work with him on his diet and exercise routine. In three months his blood pressure was back to normal! He was so happy and so was I that he chose a healthier lifestyle over a quick fix.
Any funny stories from throughout the years?
This story is not funny but inspirational. At the club I trained in we had step mills and a climbing wall so I ran a contest to inspire my clients. I challenged them to either climb to the top of the empire state building with 5,000 steps or climb Mt. Everest (can’t remember how high that was). Within a months time and I had a lady that was 71 years old who accomplished both! She has bloody knuckles from climbing but she keep going — NO EXCUSES, I love that!
Any advice for those who aspire to stay in this industry as long as you?
Two things that pushed my career was that I competed in many things from bodybuilding to marathons. People love to watch their trainer challenge themselves and accomplish goals. Keep setting goals for your clients, from really small ones to competing in local runs. I like to find local events and take a group to participate. It is a sense of accomplishment for them and makes the time in the gym really mean something to them. Keep in mind that you can’t help everyone but the ones that are open to it will change your life!
