DESPITE gyms being one of the first businesses ordered to close its doors, local strength and conditioning trainer at The Station Gym, Ash Storey, said it has been a giant learning experience, and anticipates a boom in the fitness industry when things return to normal.
Storey, 20, said his obsession with all things fitness started at a young age, and his path never really wavered.
“I’ve always lived in the area – up in Hewett – and never moved,” he said.
“In my childhood I was the kind of kid that played in creeks, ran around, rode bikes and stuff like that, so I’ve always just been into the fitness culture I guess.
“When I was 12-years-old my mum got me my first barbell, so I just used to deadlift and squat a lot, then after a while we found The Station Gym and I wanted to take up boxing.
“After I finally figured out I wanted to become a PT and did my qualifications, I did my work experience there, and they actually needed a trainer, so they took me on because they liked the work that I’d done.”
With gym doors closed, Storey was forced to expand his knowledge and adjust his business to be able to work in a non-traditional fashion.
“It’s been a bit weird,” he said.
“It’s made me learn how to really train clients with what they should be doing. I’m primarily a strength trainer, but now instead of just relying on weights in the gym, I’ve educated myself further on resistance bands, different kinds of positioning – just using different forces.
“I’ve lost quite a few clients, but also gained a few new ones. It’s becoming a bit more of a trend to post physical activities online, especially with gyms closed, there’s a demand to get outside and be active – it’s why I’m expecting a spike in interest as soon as we come out of all this.”
For those stuck in a bit of a physical rut, Storey recommends one simple activity that can be done safely with little-to-no risk of COVID-19 transmission – hiking.
“I’d suggest people try hiking,” he said.
“I love it – it’s low impact on the body, it’s a great cardiovascular exercise, and great for the legs as well.
“I think all this time being spent indoors is pretty mentally challenging, so getting out is a great way to deal with things, get some air into your lungs, and get endorphins pumping.”
When The Station Gym re-opens, Storey said its already-solid hygiene protocols will be expanded on to make sure everyone feels safe during their exercise.