Nina Van Rij
Qualifications
- Cert III and IV
- Level 1 trainer
- Level 2 trainer
- Certificate IV in remedial massage
- First Aid
- CPR
- Bachelor of Science
Why did you get into CrossFit?
A friend introduced me to CrossFit 4 years ago. I got hooked on it, after my first ever “WOD”. The workout may have only taken 5 minutes but I was just as exhausted as doing a 5km run, which was pretty much my daily training routine at the time as well as plenty of Les Mills bodypump and attack classes.
Why did you become a trainer?
I was a personal trainer before I started CrossFit. I ran bootcamps and worked at Sydney University Aquatic Centre. My programs were pretty standard at the time: bench day Mondays, leg day Tuesdays etc. When I discovered CrossFit a whole new dimension on training was exposed to me, and I started to apply it in my client programs from what I learnt through my own training. After approximately 4 months of doing CrossFit I decided to go for my Level 1 trainer course, as I knew from the start that eventually I wanted to make coaching CrossFit my focus.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is seeing members improve in a short amount of time, whether it is in terms of strength and conditioning or even flexibility. Secondly, the community that CrossFit has created is incredible. Whether you’re competitive or not, everyone supports each other. Camaraderie at it’s best!
What’s your favorite CrossFit Movement?
Believe it or not the burpee ? you can take it anywhere!
What do you do to relax away from the gym?
Catch up with friends and go for walks.
What’s your advice for somebody getting started with CrossFit?
Be patient ? some movements take a while to learn and perfect. Even the most proficient CrossFit athlete still needs to practise their technique, hence consistency and patience is the key.