Staff Spotlight: Becky Vance
Welcome to our "Staff Spotlight" series! In this collection of ongoing posts on The Western Blog, we shine a light on the incredible individuals who make Western special! From passionate trainers & instructors to knowledgeable nutritionists and tennis pros, and many other dedicated staff members, we'll introduce you to the talented team behind the scenes. Learn about their expertise and background, plus some fun facts!
Our staff member in the spotlight this week: personal trainer Becky Vance! You may know her as one of the friendly faces you see behind the trainer desk or out on the fitness floor but did you also know she can solve a Rubik's cube in a minute and 30 seconds?
Q: How long have you been a personal trainer?
A: 3.5 years
Q: What is your educational and certification background?
A: I am a National Counsil on Strength and Fitness Certified Personal Trainer, and have completed specialty courses on kettlebell training, TRX, kickboxing, and sports fitness.
Q: What made you want to become a personal trainer?
A: I have always been active and into sports and fitness, and I have taught group fitness classes since college. When my gym needed a sub for a small group training class, I volunteered and fell in love with the individual aspect of training in a small group and one on one. I love being able to help people improve their life as they develop a love for fitness.
Q: What is your favorite kind of workout?
A: I love variety! I always include lifting heavy with a personalized HIIT bonus to get my heart rate going. Add some balance and you're golden. My favorite pieces of equipment: step, TRX, Bosuu, and kettlebell.
Q: Do you participate in any other fitness activities outside of Western?
A: Does having 6 kids count? 😉 I frequently help coach my kids' sports teams. And I love walks with my husband and/or kids.
Q: What’s your favorite non-fitness hobby (or hobbies)?
A: I love music, reading, and playing games! I love being outside: hiking, biking, sitting on a hammock, or being at the beach.
Q: What motivates you?
A: Goals for myself–and competition!
Q: What’s your favorite song to wor kout to?
A: Warrior by Evaride
Q: If you could train any celebrity, who would you pick?
A: Chris Pratt
Q: Do you have a favorite quote or any words of wisdom you can share?
A: “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” -Babe Ruth
Q: What’s the farthest you’ve ever traveled?
A: Florianopolis, Brazil 🇧🇷❤️
Q: What’s the best concert you’ve ever been to?
A: U2
Q: What’s your favorite junk food?
A: Warm homemade chocolate chip cookie
Q: What’s the best part of your job?
A: The people!!!
Q: What’s something you’re proud of?
A: Making it to state in the 300m hurdles in high school and also going to state honors choir.
Q: If you had to have a career outside of fitness, what would you want to do?
A: Either real estate agent or travel agent
Q: What are some fun facts about you?
A: I played rugby at BYU and I can solve a Rubik’s cube in a minute and 30 seconds.
Q: Is there anything else you think would be fun for people to get to know about you?
A: My grandpa was a Packer player in 1939, my mom was a Packer cheerleader for one season, and my dad still holds the record for most interceptions in a season at Lawrence University.
Lightning Round: Either/Or Questions
Coffee or tea? Neither
Cats or dogs? Cats
Tattoos or piercings? Piercings
Outer space or the bottom of the ocean? Outer space
Christmas or your birthday? Christmas
Breakfast or dinner? Breakfast
Texting or calling? Texting
Burgers or tacos? Tacos
Movie at home or movie in the theater? Home
Introvert or extrovert? Extroverted introvert
