Jessica Staley
September 25, 2019
How long have you been a member at Ballard Health Club?
13 years (with a break in the middle).
What is your favorite piece of equipment or exercise to do in the gym?
Haha - this is a trick question. I'm pretty opportunistic about using a variety of equipment to achieve my goals. I appreciate how Pat and team actively listen and respond to membership needs - for example, providing heavier kettlebells. Some of my current favorites are sumo deadlifts, split squats, medicine ball throws, and landmine press.
Why do you work out?
Two major reasons - the long game, and the short game. The long game is I'm hoping to live as long and as well as possible, so building a foundation to do that. The short game is I'm training in Muay Thai (kickboxing), so developing all the skills, power and agility needed to win and avoid being knocked out. I also just enjoy focusing on physical creativity and getting out of work mode.
What do you do to work out?
I aim to build strength into power. So I build a foundation of strength, and then speed those movements up. I also put emphasis on physical therapy exercises, to prevent injury.
What in the gym has worked for you in attaining your goals?
Wow - how the building space has been completely maximized! Every nook and cranny has been outfitted to carve out specialty functions, from stretching, to boxing, to spinning, to yoga. Creative, efficient, effective.
Why do you choose to work out at BHC?
BHC is community-oriented, with a diverse membership. I love the fact that there are older Silver Sneakers participants, power lifters and CrossFit-ers, fitness newcomers, marathons trainees, all co-existing amicably in the same space. I also look forward to working out with and joking around with my husband Shane (fellow BHC member).
The staff are awesome - knowledgeable and friendly. I've learned some helpful techniques from them. The training model included with membership is unique and valuable - shows they care about the growth and development of the members.
BHC is the ideal gym - they have high standards and strong values.
Anything else to add?
Summary: "BHC is community-oriented, with a diverse membership. The staff are awesome - knowledgeable and friendly. BHC is the ideal gym - they have high standards and strong values."