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At the young age of 49, Gail Brooks began training for Ironman races and achieved her dream goal of becoming an Ironman at 52.  Gail’s desire to continue goal setting, achieving one’s dreams and living life to the fullest has helped her on her impressive journey as a ‘senior’ triathlete, having started the sport later in life. And she’s not done yet, qualifying for the ITU World Triathlon Edmonton in 2020 at the age of 54, and participating in the 2020 Ironman in Penticton.

Gail has been a long standing canfitpro member since 1995 and certified as both FIS and PTS, instructing at YMCA and City of Calgary.

Gail Brooks
Gail Brooks

Why did you choose canfitpro?

I am proud to say I have been a canfitpro member for 24 years!  Originally certified in Quebec, I moved to BC and now live in Alberta. Having the canfitpro certification has provided me with the freedom to instruct throughout Canada.  My canfitpro membership allows me to be able to recertify annually through continued education courses and conferences, providing me the opportunity to meet fitness leaders and instructors alike.

Gail Brooks
Gail Brooks

What is your WHY? Why have you chosen this profession?

I am a Gemini! I feel I have always had two sides to my personality. One side of me has grown a career as an Executive Assistant for over 25 years and the other side of me has grown as an avid instructor and amateur athlete. Instructing and facilitating wellness opportunities is my passion. The feeling I get from instructing classes is like no other – I truly feel connected to my participants, to a greater purpose, and mostly to my true self.

Gail Brooks
Gail Brooks

What gets you excited to go to work each day?

Knowing I will be moving my body at some point during the day. It is akin to brushing my teeth – I can’t imagine a day going by without either instructing or training. This is my joy. I find that regular exercise keeps my mind, body and spirit primed for my full-time job and life as a working wife and mother to two children and an athlete.

Gail Brooks
Gail Brooks

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Meeting people and helping them push themselves to achieve more than they ever thought they could. Building a community within my classes and making participants feel as special as they are. The time I share with participants is unique as it may be one of the only times in the day where we connect to what is truly important in our individual lives. Sharing these moments together is a gift.