I have a regular workout schedule that includes swimming, running, hip hop classes, and every Wednesday morning a class called CRT (Cardio Resistance Training). It is taught by a scary, evil lovely woman named Donna. I am convinced she enjoys inflicting pain. However, even though at some point in the class each week, I am convinced I am actually going to die, I guess you could call it a sado-masochistic relationship that seems to work for both of us.
The last couple of weeks we have had a substitute teacher.
The first week, we had a woman named Mary. She was in great shape ( a marathon runner I'm told) and did a pretty darn good job of teaching the class. There was a point when I thought if she uttered the words "10 more push ups" again I might have to inflict some for of bodily harm to her. Luckily, she did not, in fact, utter said words again and we both managed to leave our time together unscathed. Plus, I felt like I had worked hard and had a good workout.
The second week with a sub, things took a turn for the worse. I am not sure what our sub's name was...she never said. This was not my main issue with her. She did say that she is a certified personal trainer and aquatics instructor. Here is where my small issue with her comes in. She is significantly overweight. Please don't misunderstand me, I have total respect for people who are overweight working out and trying to get healthier. I am by no means in perfect shape either. I work hard, try to eat well, and all around do my best. My issue is the she is A PERSONAL TRAINER that is overweight. Why exactly would I want to take advice on how to be in shape from someone who is not. It sort of sounds like taking financial advice from someone with debt out their ears and their home in foreclosure doesn't it? To make matters worse, she read each exercise we were to do off of a piece of paper with zero enthusiasm and NEVER, doing a single exercise herself. Not a very satisfying experience.
Tomorrow is time for class again, and I really hope Donna is back. I never thought I would say this, but I miss that little drill sergeant.
I'm with you, I would find that exceedingly strange.
Posted by: Fannie | June 09, 2009 at 11:32 AM
that's absurd!!! and didn't even DO the exercises? hmmm...hope that donna's back tomorrow!
Posted by: libby @ ninesandquines | June 09, 2009 at 04:14 PM
I don't mean to use a cliche but Don't Judge a Book By It's Cover. Yes, it feels odd however, from experience I had a "bigger" female trainer years back and she was the best. I found out that under that skin was a woman a muscle who kicked my butt each session. However, her not doing the exercise is distribuing. She is running the class and should be active in it.
Posted by: The Eastsider | June 10, 2009 at 05:00 AM
I would agree with the "don't judge a book..." saying BUT the not doing the exercises puts up more of a flag than her size.
At the same time...doesn't it always seem that when someone is horrible with something in their own life; they are great at it in their occupation?!?!
Posted by: Helen Wright | June 10, 2009 at 10:46 AM
I agree -- I want my instructor to look like what I am working toward -- not what I'm trying to get away from!
Posted by: Sandra | June 13, 2009 at 10:36 AM
Yep! I have a love/hate relationship with my trainer too ;)
Posted by: Jules from The Roost | June 16, 2009 at 09:33 PM
I get ya. I have to get back to the gym too. There's a weight machine there I need to kick. :)
Posted by: Leanne | June 18, 2009 at 07:10 PM
I'm changing my opinion. I believe I had her for Water Aerobics last night. She didn't even do the exercises on the pool deck. Most do, so you have a clue what you are doing. She is lazy. I may have to include that in my letter between, no towels in the locker rooms the past 2 times, and crazy drivers in their parking lot.
Posted by: The Eastsider | June 25, 2009 at 08:31 AM
Something's amiss all right--you aren't writing your blog anymore, and I miss it! xo
Posted by: HHKaysie | August 14, 2009 at 07:16 AM