Pulse People

March 2020 - PG GNCH

I have been coming to the PG Gym since September of 2018. I initially joined the PG gym because running outside on the cold and icy sidewalks was not favorable. This actually worked out in my favor as last December I hurt my knee and started strength training to rehab the injury. I enjoy the accessibility of the gym and meeting, socializing and encouraging all the other GNCH members who come to the gym . I have made quite a few gym friends as a result of coming to the PG. I am currently training to keep running and to complete 3 Half Marathons in 2020. Being active and keeping fit has become a lifestyle for me and I loves how I feels after running or doing a strength training session. I believe this is the best way to get those HAPPY endorphins! Working out also allows me to enjoy all the foods I love, particularly cheese and chocolate! I recommend to anyone if you are looking for a small change or something small to commit to, join the gym, you won’t regret it!

February 2020 - PG EMS Edmonton

For approximately 5 years I have accessed the PG at the UAH and now at the new EMS Northwest Station. What makes the PG so great to me is the staff, programs, atmosphere and accessibility. I remember when Joan trialed a few different workouts for a 50 and up group. It was great and I could hardly wait for what was next. The PG is a great place to go on my lunch break - from stretching to lifting a few weights to the row machine, all while listening to your favorite tunes, is not only a good physical release but mental as well. I find what I do in the PG adds a good balance to the other activities I enjoy such as swimming, skating, bike riding. 

What motivates me? To be able to do all the physical activities I did with my children with my grandchildren; the other people in the gym; and oh a challenge … when EMS Calgary challenged EMS Edmonton in push-ups through the PG gym I was all in.

November 2019, PG UAH

 Manny has been a long time PG member since 2003. “The PG is conveniently located at the UAH, so there is no reason for me to skip a day without working out. Doing exercise at lunchbreak is a good way for me to cut my day short, relieve stress and free my afternoon for other chores. “ He initially joined to stay fit as he ages and considers his age as just a number. His workout routine consists of both lifting weights and some cardio. Manny has noticed that keeping fit has allowed him to continue doing activities that other people of his same age can no longer do.  

 October 2019—PG GNCH

I initially joined the Pulse Generator in 2017 after experiencing a back injury. I needed an easy way to incorporate fitness into my life to strengthen my core and prevent further injury. Being able to head down to the gym at the end of my work day makes for a no excuse option. The small but mighty gym is not intimidating for a newbie like me and offers many work-out options and equipment. The Thursday afternoon Hatha Flow Yoga class at GNH has become a staple of my week. Each week I look forward to a challenging, yet relaxing session with awesome instructors that make you feel so welcome.

September 2019—PG RGH

I joined the PG in Feb of 2019 so I could have somewhere to go on my lunch break to be active. Knowing there is a gym right on site leaves me with no excuse for not going. I like that the PG is small and not overwhelming like a big box chain gym. Also, it's usually the same group of people in the gym at the same time so it's nice to be able to build friendships with people you may not interact with regulalry.

Don't be afraid of the gym. The first day or two are always scary and overwhelming, but if I can do it, you can do it too! You just need to start small and work your way up as your body becomes more accustomed to your new active lifestyle. I also like to help people so if you ever see me around and have questions about my journey or need someone to talk to, just give me a shout.

Working with my trainer 2x per week makes me feel powerful and strong! I have lost 70lbs so far in my journey and cannot wait to keep going! Outside of the PG, I love taking my dog for a walk at the end of the day because it helps me to unwind and relax. I also really enjoy swimming.

  July 2019, PG Misericordia

Laurie has been a member of the Pulse Generator at the Misericordia Hospital since the doors first opened. As long as her schedule allows, she goes everyday at 10:00 for a 30 min workout instead of taking coffee breaks.  Laurie is actively involved in Dragon Boat  Racing and manages a mixed team that races all over the world – Portland, San Francisco, Calgary, Vancouver etc.  She has also represented Canada in Worlds in Italy and the Pan America Games in Puerto Rico.  She recently turned 65 but tries to maintain north strong in her physical activities. Apparently the key to a healthy lifestyle other than “nachos and beer” is to keep active.  If you love a sport it is easy to stay with it.

 June 2019, PG - Calgary

Michelle Stensrud has been teaching lunchtime yoga for AHS staff at the Quarry park locations for 2 years.  Michelle completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2011. Michelle previously ran her own yoga studio in downtown Calgary, before taking on her business analyst role with     Alberta Health Services.  She was very excited when the   opportunity arose to return to teaching yoga to her    coworkers to help them relieve the tension from sitting at a desk all day, improve their mental clarity and provide a fun social activity. In her spare time, Michelle is the member of multiple book clubs and is currently training for her first ½ triathlon this summer. 

 May 2019, EMS-Stonegate

 Adam has been a member of the Pulse Generator EMS in Calgary for 2 months now. Adam likes pretty much any sport but sticks mostly to ice hockey. Outside of the Pulse Generator Adam enjoys yardwork, and just being outdoors. He joined the PG to stay active and keep in shape. The easy accessibility to the facility and the staff onsite are great sources of knowledge for Adam. He also likes the cleanliness, quality of equipment. For Adam, staying active, even just a little, with good nutrition and sleep  keeps his mind and body fresh & rejuvenated.   

   April 2019, PG- UAH

I initially joined the Pulse Generator in June of 2017  because it was so convenient being located at my place of work. No excuses to miss a workout! Running is my favorite exercise. I am currently training to run the NYC Marathon with the PG Destination Fitness group in November, as well as feel confident at my wedding in July. In the future, I may take up swimming and try out an Ironman triathlon. As an RN, keeping fit allows me to be an example of healthy  active living to my patients. A healthy lifestyle is doing what my body tells me to do to feel its best physically and mentally.

 March 2019, PG-UAH

This year will mark 20 years that Chad Wu has been a  member of the Pulse Generator. The PG is a very convenient place for him to get to for weightlifting and playing basketball. Over the years Chad has seen big improvements in both management and gym equipment and facilities.  Keeping himself fit has allowed him to keep up with playing badminton and basketball for over 20 years. Chad  supports the PG in helping serve all its members with health and happiness. 

 February 2019, PG Southport

 Jocelyn has been a member of the PG at Southport ever since the facility started to operate in Calgary. She feels that being able to exercise during her lunchbreak has made her a better employee. Getting in some fitness during the day relieves stress and keeps her more alert so she can stay focused. Daily fitness also frees up time in the evening for social and family and friends time. Jocelyn is into tennis, yoga, and activities that she can do in the mountains like hiking and snowboarding. Its been great to see all the things the Pulse does to stay connected and engaged with the PG. She joined the United Way plane pull team last year and had a lot of fun! Follow her wellness page on Instagram! @mindjowellness