My “Why” for being a Coach

I recently read a book called “Ikigai”. The title and theme of the book translate to a Japanese concept referring to something that gives a person a sense of purpose and reason for living. The graphic shown to represent this concept is a Venn diagram with the intersection of what you like to do; what the world needs; what you can get paid for; and, in the center, what you are good at. This is what Kinesiology has been for me! In the truest sense of the word, the study of human movement has and continues to provide me with my Ikigai. Iam in the Graduate Program of Kinesiology focused on Exercise Physiology in Strength and Conditioning at SJSU, I intend to continue my Ikigai and target a particular part of the health field.

I have been working as a Personal Trainer since 2007– training and educating others about health. I started working part-time while I was studying for a B.S. in Business Management at SJSU. After completing my personal training certification through (NASM) I also enrolled in Kinesiology as a minor at SJSU and I never looked back! 

Not only do I feel fitness is my passion, but I feel it fuels my life. I love sports and working out myself, but even more, I love helping and teaching others about health and fitness. My curiosity in the field is constantly strengthening with the ever-growing array of topics and ideas to dive into. That's why I would love the opportunity to pursue further formal education through this MA program. Strength and Conditioning also interest me because of youth training, which I feel especially passionate about. I realize most kids will not be pro athletes or even college athletes, but I do feel learning the tools to take care of one's health can be sparked foundationally through strength and conditioning. I feel even more purposeful about youth training and development being an expectant father right now.

During the beginning of the pandemic with gym shutdowns and the in-person nature of my work being sidelined, I had time to reflect on my career. I considered changing careers not only because I could not work as much but because this was a pause I had never had. I considered many different routes from firefighting, teaching, psychology and other work ideas I tossed around. Yet, after much thought and exploration, I came back to training as my passion with a reinvigorated drive. I worked to adapt to the situation by using tech to train my clients using apps, video and continuing communication to encourage their fitness. Working really kept me sane and allowed me to feel that I could truly help others through fitness even through these other mediums. The power of being physical and in one’s body was highlighted so much during this time.  

In addition, what I felt and continue to be most grateful for is developing and continuing long lasting relationships with people I would not have the opportunity to even interact with otherwise. I truly consider myself fortunate to work with CEO’s, academics, VC’s, and at home parents from around the world – all people who I have the opportunity to learn from and befriend.  Like many people, I spend more time with my clients then with my personal friends and family, which is a feature of my work that also benefits me  because the experiences reciprocated back to me are very fulfilling. 

The latest development – I am a Papa now! This life-changing news of becoming a “Dad” continues to fuel me even further and blends my love of youth development in the most personal way. Being there for my daughter has given me an even greater appreciation for human movement as well as health overall. I really hope I have the opportunity to work with you and tell you all about it if you want!