INLIV is an industry leader in providing highly customized, one-on-one personal training and fitness services. Our team approach enables us to draw on the knowledge and experience of a diverse portfolio of health and fitness professionals. We interviewed Madison Bonsel to ask her about her career journey as a personal fitness trainer and why does what she does.
Personal Fitness Trainer Spotlight: Madison Bonsel
Why did you become a personal fitness trainer?
It was early in my own training as a ringette athlete that I realized that I was fascinated by the human body, interested in how it moves, how it works, and how my own body moves. I soon became interested in the “diagnostic” aspect of human movement – i.e. wondering why some people walk with a different gait. In my first experience as a personal trainer, I knew that it was for me. Through personal training I get to use my education, have variety in my days, communicate with many personalities, and most importantly help clients achieve their goals!
What are your current certifications and designations?
I completed my Bachelor of Kinesiology at the University of Calgary. I am also a Certified Personal Trainer through the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiologists (CSEP).
What is your most satisfying personal fitness training moment or your favourite client succes story?
My most satisfying training moment is when a client is genuinely surprised by what their body is capable of. It doesn’t happen with every client, but when it does, it makes my job so worth it. This moment may come after an injury has left the client unable to do certain exercises or after progressively building strength month after month, but the moment is magical. Although I may have known that they were capable of this goal the entire time, the elation and authentic pride that the client has in themselves, and their body makes the work leading up to that moment worth it.
What are your hobbies outside of work and physical activity?
A lot of my hobbies outside of work do include at least some form of physical activity – I’m sure that’s not a huge surprise to those that know me. Over the past few years, I have taken up skateboarding during the warmer months, including a nasty road rash accident this summer. I also love baking in my spare time, cookies are my favourite!
Do you have a personal goal you’re currently working towards?
I am currently working on getting into medical school. After writing the MCAT in June 2021, my applications have officially been sent in as of October 1st, 2021. This has been an aspiration of mine many years in the making, and I am hopeful and excited to start this journey.