Laurie Fownes
Laurie balances her love for athletics and her passion for public health by working full time as a Program Consultant for tahe Public Health Agency of Canada and part time as a group exercise instructor.
Laurie completed a Master of Science (MSc – 2006, University of Calgary), a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW – 1999, University of Calgary), and Alberta Fitness Leadership Certification (AFLCA – 2005, 2007, 2009, Provincial Fitness Unit, AB). Laurie believes that health is multidimensional and transcends physical health to include other components including mental, spiritual, and emotional. Laurie’s goal is to promote health through a strengths based approach – continually seeking ways to engage and empower diverse participants and communities in their health and fitness journeys.
Laurie currently instructs three-four RIPPED! classes per week along with volunteering at the Calgary YWCA. In addition to her AFLCA certification, Laurie seeks out new fitness training opportunities to expand her knowledge of the ever-evolving health and wellness industry. As a RIPPED! Instructor, Laurie is motivated every class by the commitment and dedication of participants who are challenging themselves in new directions. The structured of the RIPPED! Program provides participants with education and training to learn about safe biomechanics, functional movements, challenging exercises, balanced nutrition, and support.
Laurie’s lifelong journey and commitment to health is fuelled by more than physical strength gains. One of the greatest accomplishments gained since participating in her first RIPPED! class (March, 2004) is Laurie’s freedom to take more “risks.” This means trying (and often failing at) new activities – outside of the comfort zone. With each mistake comes the opportunity to grow. The benefits of “risk-taking” far outweigh the consequences of failure. For example, Laurie has expanded her athletic and educational pursuits to include mountaineering activities (such as scrambling, rock climbing, glacier travel); participating in and instructing a greater variety of group exercise classes; and tackling a broader range of health issues (through a health promotion approach).
Guarantee: if you cannot locate Laurie at work or in the gym, she will be out exploring the next mountain peak (while in the company of great friends, family, and her dog Kinta). Which challenge (or peak) is next?