I started in the fitness industry in 1985, teaching different styles of high-energy group fitness classes. This I did full-time for just over a decade, teaching/training up to seven classes per day. In the early 90’s, I also started entering Ms Fitness/Ms Physique/Natural Bodybuilding competitions, where I was selected to represent SA for two years in a row at the WPF Universe Competition in 1994 and 1995 in France and Italy respectively.
During this time, I also trained JKA Shotokan karate, achieving a Brown belt, before unfortunately having to relocate cities. The relocation took me to a well-known powerlifting centre, where I dabbled in lifting for a few years, entering a few low-key events, whilst continuing to teach group fitness classes.
Because of the success in the Miss Fitness/Physique/Natural Bodybuilding above, I was offered a position to work for my sponsors at the time, a supplement company that imported all the top name brands from the USA.
In 2002, an opportunity arose for me to purchase a supplement retail outlet, where I continued to stock all the major name-brands imported from the USA, as well as some locally-manufactured products. This was the start of Pace & Power. I continued with my gym training and clean eating – as always…And of course, writing numerous meal plans and training programmes for clients who wanted to get into great shape!
I started Kettlebell training in 2006. At the time, it was virtually an unknown entity in SA. In 2008, Steve Cotter, head of the IKFF (International Kettlebell and Fitness Federation) came to SA and I was able to complete CKT (Certified Kettlebell Trainer) Level 1. This was a great experience as Steve introduced the group to systematic training methods and new, mechanically efficient techniques! The relationship with the IKFF had begun!
In 2006, I completed a general personal trainer certification with HFPA, (Health and Fitness Professionals’ Association) and the following year, a Diploma in Exercise Science with the same school. Not truly satisfied with this, I then went on to complete a more in-depth personal training course with the American NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association), the NSCA-CPT. This was then followed by the NSCA-CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist).
In 2010, I (unsuccessfully) attempted IKFF-CKT Level 2 (ketttlebell certification) and so, it was back to the drawing board. A year later, under Coach Trent’s training and applying the new IKFF techniques and programming, I re-attempted CKT2 – this time successfully. CKT2 involves lifting double kettlebells…And this was where my love for training/competing with 2 kettlebells began… I think that, in life, the things you struggle with the most, ultimately grow into your greatest passion and appreciation: The improvements are so small and so precious that one embarks on a love-affair with the nemesis! So it was for me and double kettlebell lifting…
In 2013, I successfully completed IKFF-CKT3, together with MKS (Modern Kettlebell Sport, a certification on competitive kettlebell lifting). IKFF has always led the way in offering enormous opportunity to learn and have access to the latest training information and techniques. In 2013, I was awarded Master Trainer for the IKFF, one of 22 trainers worldwide. I am also the only female Master Trainer, an honour that I cherish and am committed to uphold.
Kettlebell Sport has taught me to be patient with my body and myself: All things take time. Greed for faster results has no place: It is time under load, remaining calm and focused in the face of challenges; in addition, I respect everyone who steps up to participate in this challenging sport.
My training now combines both single and double bells, as well as body weight moves/lifts, some plyometrics, short runs (hills only) and stretching.
Several years ago, Pace & Power took another step upwards: We started manufacturing our supplements locally. Virtually all of our ingredients are imported, but we blend locally. In this way we are able to keep our prices very affordable, but our quality exceptional! Our attention to detail in the development of each formula, as well as our conscientiousness with each and every production sets us apart: Our focus has always been quality and safety: Health first! We pride ourselves in having a “clean label” as well as producing outstanding athletic results safely.
Despite not ever marketing ourselves, Pace & Power has continued to grow steadily and consistently since 2002. We have grown purely through word of mouth. We have become a trusted name amongst athletes who are serious about their performance with safe, clean supplements.
“Under promise. Over deliver” -Jim Rohn
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist at NSCA-CSCS
Certified Personal Trainer – NSCA-CPT
CKT Levels 1-3 at IKFF, International Kettlebell and Fitness Federation, Master Trainer
Diploma in Exercise Science – HFPA
Certified Personal Trainer HFPA
B. Mus (1987, University of KZN)
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