Meet Jackson: A lover of nature & movement (our kind of guy). Read about his journey with FAT, his love for outdoor workouts, and why he believes fitness should be fun!
Tell us a bit about yourself :)
Ciao! I’m Jackson, originally from New Zealand’s sunshine capital, Nelson, before I slowly made my way up to Auckland. For as long as I can remember I’ve been addicted to the great outdoors, whether it was skiing in the snow, mountain biking through forest trails or spending time in the water, my days were always jam packed. I’m an outdoor lover and frequently find myself venturing into the wilderness chasing ‘big energy’ moments. Those special times where you pause, breathe and appreciate how beautiful the world is, and how incredibly lucky we are to be in it!
How did you hear about FAT? Do you remember your first session?
It was definitely a while ago! By memory I heard about FAT the same way as many of us, through social media. My first session was during COVID lockdowns. A friend and I jumped into one of the virtual sessions to keep active and stay sane! Eventually I made it down to Silo Park for one of my first in-person sessions and was hooked. Having the opportunity to workout outside, surrounded by smiling people, and during sunrise… you can’t start your day better than that!
We have shared a few workouts together, what makes you keep coming back?
I was previously a member at a well known commercial gym for about six years and although I really enjoyed my time there, near the end I felt the gym was a little too industrialised and busy - it felt hectic and I wasn’t getting that mental escape I'm after when working out. To be honest, it turned fitness into a chore.
FAT is the complete opposite to this. It’s a place where fitness and fun collide! It’s a chance to work out in fresh air, next to the ocean, and in any weather!
What would you say to someone hesitating to come to FAT?
As with starting anything new, I can understand the nerves that someone may feel when contemplating turning up to your first session, but I’ve personally found the trainers and people who head along to FAT as some of the most welcoming and genuine people I know. Turning up is the hardest step, but you won’t regret it!
If you are thinking about heading along, feel free to come say hello to me!
Do you have a most memorable moment with us?
Each training session is a little unique, fun and memorable, so I don’t have any standout moments. But I can say my favourite sessions are the ones leading into summer. You get to start your day in the warmth, raise your heart rate and get some natural sunlight in your eyes!
Outside of our weekly session, what is your relationship with exercise / movement?
I’m an addict, I love it! I find exercise and movement an incredibly powerful tool to reconnect/reset and to manage stress.
I also aim to keep it interesting and I am constantly changing it up by trying new things, for example I’ve started to surf and play tennis. Health is wealth, so I will alway have some level of engagement in exercise / movement!
What are your health/movement and life goals for the second half of 2023?
I’m either spontaneous or unorganised, haven’t decided yet, but I currently don't have any health or fitness goals locked in for the remainder of 2023. I guess my long term goal is to always stay healthy enough to be ready to do anything, and to keep up with my go-getting lifestyle. Whether it is as simple as a walk on a beach, or an offer to climb a mountain, life is too short to miss out on amazing opportunities so I always try to stay ready!