By: Joe Cardoso
Summer over already? Maybe for most of us but some people still get to enjoy a few more summer days as the leaves change and we hit the home stretch of 2021 fitness goals and healthy living roll on. The holidays are right around the corner and that means some really really good eating is on deck! This month we take the spotlight over the bond and land in London, England to introduce you to a personal trainer with drive and a goal to spread body positivity. Let’s get to know Amy Shockett
Joe Cardoso: Let’s go back to the start, growing up did you play any sports?
Amy Shockett: Growing up I had 4 older brothers so I was always pretty sporty and remember always playing football in the garden with them. In school, I mostly did running and gymnastics
JC: How did you get into the world of fitness?
AS: I got diagnosed with a migraine disorder at the age of 19 and was told by my doctors that being fit would help me so after taking months of work at the time I became a Regular at Pilates classes and joined a gym.
JC: Always a great question to ask. How did you go from working out to wanting to be a trainer and help others?
AS: After years of not really knowing what I was doing I decided to get a personal trainer and started weight training this ignited my passion straight away. I was hairdressing at the time and didn’t like what I was doing, I always had a passion for helping others and fitness so decided to do a course. By the time I’d finished the course I was convinced this was my path. I haven’t looked back since, that was almost 8 years ago now and I truly wake up every day and love what I do.
JC: How did you get through Covid lockdown and stay positive?
AS: The lockdown was hard, the first one however felt like a holiday almost as the weather was great and my good friend moved in with me, she’s also a trainer. I started doing live classes online and this really kept me going for most of the lockdowns. Fitness is actually what got me through all the ups and downs of the lockdowns.
JC: Why are you so passionate about body positivity?
AS: Body positivity is very important to me. I didn’t grow up confident at all and was forever wanting to change myself. Fitness actually allowed me to feel more confident but gradually accept my imperfections. With social media these days it is increasingly hard for young girls to not have body issues, so for me, it’s very important to use my platforms to show reality and that perfection does not exist. That you really do have to find self-love from the inside out despite what social media shows.
JC: Being so busy, what does a typical week look like for you?
AS: A typical week for me usually involves 30 sessions of online and face-to-face clients, then 4 training sessions for myself. This is all before my social life lol. However, I love being busy so I can’t complain.
JC: What is 1 thing you love about the fitness industry and 1 thing you hate and why?
AS: The one thing I love about the fitness industry is the community and the way it can bring complete strangers together doing something they love that makes them feel good. The one thing I hate is the politics and false advertising, quick fad diets etc.
JC: Before the end of 2021, you want too____?
AS: Before the end of 2021, I want to launch my new website and go on holiday!
Bonus Question:
JC: When not coaching or training what do you do for fun?
AS: When I’m not working, I love seeing my friends and family going out to eat, the movies, spending time with family means a lot to me.
JC: You battle migraines. What advice would you have for those who suffer from them?
AS: I have battled migraines since I was very young, my most recent relapse 4 years ago put me in bed for over a year. My biggest advice for anyone suffering is to advocate for yourself, do your own research, and find a good understanding doctor. Then be kind to yourself and know that the body can and will heal.
JC: Who is Amy Shockett?
AS: Amy shockett is a fun and caring personal trainer from London. I’m A big kid at heart and I’m a massive geek believe it or not I was definitely never one of the cool girls growing up. I am just someone who is trying to make a difference in any small way I can.
I want to thank Amy for taking the time to share her story and the “why” behind why she does what she does. The industry needs more people pushing to end false information and fad diets. Make sure to keep up with her on social media as well.
Instagram
Website
YouTube
As we look towards the holiday season the spotlight keeps going as we look to inspire and motivate you to be the best version of yourself. Until next time!