Scrubs, Techno, and Gymnastics – A Chat with Coach Jena

What inspired you to become a trainer, and what's your favorite part of coaching at Primal?

I’ve always been greatly involved in sports and began teaching gymnastics 9 years ago after stopping gymnastics as a student. Wanting to keep myself involved in a sport that I love! My favorite part of coaching at primal is my adult gymnasts! They bring me sunshine every session and are consistently working hard; keeps us coming back! I love to see their progress :)

Can you share a success story from one of your clients that really motivates you?"

Lorna has been one of my longest gymnasts working at Primal coming up on two years this September. Her strength & abilities have improved greatly from years of consistency and discipline to her craft. Where we were once working on handstands and cartwheels dreaming of flips, she now has her Roundoff back handspring unassisted & Roundoff back tuck and standing back tuck with assistance. Soon enough she’ll have them all by herself. She gives me great inspiration as a coach. 

Sia (Anastasia) has become quite an amazing gymnast over the past six months. From a complete stranger to gymnastics, she has now progressed to joining the most advanced gym classes at primal. What started as basic rolls and handstands has now turned into strong & confident roundoffs, handsprings and flips! Her dedication, strength and progress speak volume for what one can accomplish when they truly put their mind to it. She is one of my most impressive gymnasts! 

I could go on and on, everyone works so hard and is so impressive!

What's your go-to workout song or pump-up anthem?

Anything and everything techno. I LOVE an upbeat remix of classic songs. Sunshine by Wuki is a classic but I’m currently loving Stick-Up by pimp chic!

Outside of the gym, what's your favorite way to stay active or recharge?

a) I have no life. I do nothing. 

b) I love being outdoors and going on walks or hikes with the dog and friends.
Anything active & outside makes me a very happy human. 

c) A handstand a day keeps the doctor away ;)

What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone who's just starting their fitness journey?

JUST START. 

You don’t have to be great to start but you have to start to be great! Small steps towards big goals & I know we’ll get there!

What's your favorite discipline to teach at Primal Gym and why?

Gymnastics duh!!! I love small group sessions i.e PT or specialized small classes. It’s what I do best, my adults make me feel cool and impressive no matter what I do. My adults inspire me to believe in myself and keep taking steps towards my success.

What's something people might be surprised to learn about you?

Probably that I’m a vet student, dog mom and gymnastics coach all in one. People might also be surprised to learn I’m not flexible or about my hand surgery.

Why is Primal Gym the best place for someone to achieve their fitness goals?

BECAUSE OF PRIMAL PEOPLE!!!! 

It's the amazing humans that are a part of Primal that make us so great and special. I may be biased but I truly believe we have some of the best coaches in the UK. They are extremely knowledgeable in their disciplines and always run an upbeat, fun and interactive class. Every accomplishment no matter how big or small is celebrated. Primal people create a unique environment where we care about, encourage and support everyone that walks through those doors. The love you feel at Primal is unlike any other gym out there! 

If you’d like to train with Jena through private sessions or gymnastics classes, click the link below!