This week we caught up with local trainer, Kristy Quigg @Collecor to hear a bit more about Kristy, and the difference she is making to her community. Before launching in, Kristy had an amazing success and was a finalist in the Goulburn Bright Stars start up award which is a credit to Kristy, and all of her hard work and dedication. She definitely goes above and beyond for her community and we are very lucky to have her as part of our team

Can you tell us a bit about you and where you grew up?

Growing up I’ve always been around small country towns in the Crookwell area. I played soccer, took hip hop dance classes and have been involved within the gym industry since I was a teenager.

Coming from a rural background, how does providing a service aimed at the rural community resonate with you?

It’s so important to me, not only for the members of the farming community to get together but also the children and the women of the community to have a chance to interact socially. Exercise increases the "feel good hormones", so it’s a great stress relief.

People have been asking me “aren't farmers active enough?” I say of course they are active I’m not trying to get them to loose weight I am here to promote mental health and the importance of taking time for yourself to relieve stress and meet people in the community, outside of the farm and the stress.

Can you tell us how you keep motivated?

I don’t think I am always motivated but I am dedicated to helping others, and it’s the success of others and the pure joy of seeing people accomplish new personal bests and all the laughs we have during training that motivate me to keep providing classes.

Have you got some tips about getting yourself to class when its early in the morning or after a long day of work?

I always have my clothes ready to go, along with my drink bottle, so all I have to do is get up and go. Having a training buddy is another great way to motivate you.

What advice would you give someone considering coming to your Active Farmers classes?

You don’t need to be physically fit, just bring a smile and some positive energy, Active Farmers classes are about bringing people together and are designed to be a fun and inviting environment.

Can you talk a little about what to expect at your classes?

A fun positive environment, we are always laughing and chatting. We also sweat and work hard but we have a lot of fun while we do it. The exercises are designed to strengthen the body and are always progressed and regressed for fitness levels involving functional fitness with body weight exercises, boxing and weights.

How important do you think exercise and socialising is for the farming community?

For me, moving to a new area a year ago, forming the Active Farmers class has helped me establish many friendships in the area, it’s a place where we can share common interest and just take time to catch up with people.

"We always notice when someone is missing from class and I love that I can reach out and ask if they are ok. A strong community is a resilient community".

Can you tell us about your recent nomination as a finalist in the start up superstar competition?

I was nominated as start up super star this year both as Active Lifestyle by Kristy but also through the Active Farmers network, I was completely shocked but also very excited that my clients had nominated me for such a great reward. There were many businesses that had been nominated in the same category and also very deserving.

Although I didn’t get first place I am so excited that I got a finalist spot. To be recognised for such an achievement has given me even more motivation for this industry and I strive to reach even more people and hope to have more attendees at Active Farmers in the coming months.