Short version: It's great, you'll learn a lot here. Go for it, you won't regret it.
It's May 2017, but I haven't forgotten my New Year's Resolution. Other than the craziness that comes with moving to a different country and city, if I'm being honest, I waited this long because I was confused and intimidated.
At this point in my life, I've dabbled in many popular classes like HIIT, Crossfit and Soulcycle; but nothing really clicked. In fact, there were times they left me in pain, not a good pain mind you, the sort that takes two weeks to heal. Some people might push through it thinking that it's normal, but instinctively I knew this can't be right.
They only thing I really had a genuine love for and looked forward to was Yoga, and I realized what truly made a difference: my teachers. I chanced upon two gurus over the years who took the time to truly educate me about my anatomy and correct posture. I loved being aware of each muscle and joint as I'm practicing. Doing things the right way not only avoids injury, but it also unlocks your body to its greatest potential. These are cherished knowledge that changed my life and will carry me through a lifetime. But there was something missing, Yoga had its limitations with regards to muscle building and was missing a certain dynamism that suited my personality.
I was attracted to the idea of weight lifting knowing its benefits from well established research. It elevates endorphins and helps you build muscles, which means you'll have more energy and get a metabolism boost even when you're stationary. There's a common misconception that it makes you look bulky, a concern for most girls. Don't worry because it's really not true!
What I wanted was "great", not "good" teachers to help me get there. The kind of people who I can geek out with over anatomy, have the awareness and vigilance in the never ending road to perfection.
I considered getting a personal trainer in Equinox but I'm so glad I had the lucidity to chose Willspace instead. I've never once felt like cattle or detached, as you do in a corporate multinational fitness centre. Willspace is a personal training only gym with exactly everything you need. There's no salespeople pushing you to do this and that. There's no lazy bum laying on a utility bench scrolling through Tinder for 30mins and working out for 10 (lol! what a buzzkill). There's no stinky equipment because the lovely and hardworking Tito is always keeping things spick and span. Even the bathrooms smell great! Things are always tidy because they're always put back where it was before. What you WILL find here are people who genuinely care about your progress, familiar faces and a sense of solidarity.
Willspace was founded by Will, who coached me on my first day. His passion for training was evident and so was his eagerness to share his wealth of knowledge. He's meticulous in every way, including his pick of coaches. He introduced me to Lauren, and we've been thick as thieves ever since!
What I've gained from Willspace is tailored training that speaks to my pace and personal goals. They ensure that I get a balance of strength, endurance and flexibility. They certainly push me to be better but I've never felt unsafe or been injured. You'll get access to the variety of specialized knowledge from its coaches. There's Will of course, Olympic Lifter Chaz, MMA Robbie, Gymnast Jorge, Muay Thai Cesar and Yoga Lauren. Each coach I've noticed, are all determined and always learning something new from each other. They have a genuine sense of camaraderie and I would get helpful tips from a coach I'm not even training with.
In the past 8 months my health and wellbeing has improved by leaps and bounds, and Willspace is a big part of that. They have a machine called the InBody which I love getting on each month to get a complete analysis of what's happening in your body. Recently, I've plucked up the courage to take up Kickboxing with Cesar. It's so much fun!
I love my Willspace family and I'm convinced you will be too! If you made it this far in my super long review, you probably have the desire and determination to change your life so...best of luck to you!
Note: That 1 star review by JD. M gave me the lols. "I'm not looking to train here but can you give me the info of other businesses?" Look things up in yelp in your borough and don't waste hardworking people's time for something you're too lazy to do maybe...? People are so silly. SMH xD read more