Wiley, give a little background history of yourself.

I am 59 years old, married to the same wonderful woman for 38 years, two grown kids, and four amazing grand kids. I have been in retail all of my life, working for companies such as The Athlete’s Foot, Famous Footwear, and Shoe Carnival as a store manager, district manager, and corporate office manager. I left a good paying job that I enjoyed and did well to pursue my passion for fitness.

What made you decide to pursue this area of study (i.e. Personal Fitness Training)?

I have always found great pleasure in exercise and as a by-product I am still healthy and strong while I have seen friends and relatives seriously declining. It is my desire to inspire others to stay fit.

What made you to decide to pursue this interest in the Personal Fitness Trainer program at ACC?

For me it was more than just getting a certification. I wanted a more complete education in Human Anatomy and Physiology.

What was the hardest  part of the program?

This is tough question because I thoroughly enjoyed all of it, and I know that sounds cliché, but it’s true. However, going back to school was very challenging.

What was the best/most beneficial part of the program?

I think the program was well rounded. All areas of the fitness industry were covered; all modes of exercise and all health issues were explored.

Are you currently employed as a Personal Fitness Trainer?  If so, at what capacity?  If not, why not?

Currently I am employed at BodyBusiness in Davenport Village. I do not as of yet have any clients, however, I am leading group exercise classes, such as step classes, aqua classes, and circuit classes.

If you had a single piece of advice for someone interested in being a Personal Fitness Trainer, what would it be?

Apply yourself and work hard. There is no joy in poor performance. You don’t really know if you like something until you are good at it.

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