Hi there, I’m Sheila Bondesen, Mobile Fitness Specialist for every body.
I’ll help you find your perfect path to fitness, no matter what your age, shape or challenges. Whether you’re a gym-shy newbie, a housebound parent, a time-crunched entrepreneur or a cancer survivor, I bring the workout to you. And it’ll be fun, I promise!
I get a huge kick out of working with people who are new to exercise and gyms because I remember how hard it was for me to get moving. And I know how to make YOU feel welcome at the gym and help you create an energizing exercise routine you’ll love.
For most of my life, my fitness routine was … well, let’s just call it “intermittent.” I loved exercise, but the gym intimidated the heck out of me, especially that scary weight room, with all its gadgets and those sweaty men who seemed to know exactly what they were doing.
So, I kept putting it off. By my late thirties, I was doing a little cardio and taking the odd class, but I avoided the gym and did zero strength training. How could I squeeze fitness in when all my energy was going to raising a child and building my career?
My fitness epiphany came in 2010, when I was deployed to a conflict zone through my work with the federal government. The work was intense and nonstop, and I was one of very few women. Sleep deprived, overwhelmed and isolated from everything familiar, I was rescued by exercise.
Out of sheer desperation, I started walking on a treadmill at the gym and running and hiking outside. For the first time in my life, I got consistent, beginning and ending each day with exercise. I had to. It was the only thing that helped me handle the overwork and stress.
I returned home exhausted but inspired. I wanted to use exercise to get fit and strong, not just to manage stress. I’d gained the confidence to maybe tackle the weight room and expand from cardio into strength training.
But I knew I couldn’t do this myself. So, I took a leap and hired my first fitness trainer.
Total game-changer.
My trainer introduced me to the basics of gym etiquette and taught me how to set up equipment for my height. She showed me a variety of safe exercises and reassuringly corrected my form.
But even better, she created a safe space for me by being gentle and positive, and by listening to me so I felt heard. I started to trust my body and build confidence in my abilities.
Wow, exciting! I got committed … and consistent. I noticed that doing my fitness routine was the only time I felt totally alive in the moment. Not making lists or thinking about work or family. Just me taking care of myself.
For the first time in my life, I got connected to my body. My weight leveled out and my body firmed up. I felt STRONG.
As exercise reshaped my life (and my body) in countless positive ways, I realized I was becoming a passionate advocate for healthy living at all ages and life stages. I wanted to help others invest in their own wellness as my trainer had inspired me.
But aren’t fitness trainers young, skinny and blonde? I didn’t see a place for someone my age — at least, not until a male trainer at the gym said to me, “Why aren’t you a personal trainer? Women want someone they can relate to.”
I realized this spoke to my deeper values. I believe the fitness industry should be about wellness, not about looks and image. It should be accessible for EVERY body, at every age and body type. If I exclude myself, then I’m not really helping.
So I took a leap and left my successful career in the corporate world to get certified as a personal coach and fitness trainer.
Where do I start when a new client comes to me? Well, with what they LOVE to do! I customize a program to match exactly what you love, what restrictions you have and what time of day and location work best. So, for example, if you love gadgets and weights, we’ll build them into your routine. If you prefer nature walks, we’ll meet at the nearest hiking trail. If you want to exercise at work with your coworkers, I’ll be there!
I want to remove EVERY mental, physical and emotional barrier that keeps you from your healthiest, most vibrant life. Sure, the achievements of great athletes are thrilling, but my heart is with average folks like me. I aim to make the journey to thriving wellness as easy and fun as possible.