Staff Spotlight: Val Oestreich
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: Group Fitness Instructor Val Oestreich! You may know her as one of the friendly faces you helping you find your zen in the yoga studio or kicking butts during early morning Shred, but did you know she’s also run 14 full marathons?
Q: How long have you been teaching group fitness?
A: 18 years
Q: What are your certifications or relevant education?
A: personal training, barre, group exercise, strength, running coach, and yoga certifications
Q: What made you want to become a group fitness instructor?
A: I love sharing fitness with others and helping them reach their health and wellness goals!
Q: What are your favorite classes to teach?
A: Yoga, Barre, & Strength
Q: What is your favorite kind of workout outside of group ex?
A: Running
Q: Do you participate in any other fitness activities outside of Western?
A: Yes, I run several running races and love to bike and hike .
Q: What are your favorite non-fitness hobbies?
A: Reading and going to see live music
Q: What motivates you?
A: I love to challenge myself.
Q: What inspires you?
A: Working to reach a goal together–like in a group fitness class or race–I always think we are all in this together!
Q: If you could have any famous person in one of your classes, who would you pick?
A: Rob Lowe
Q: Do you have a favorite quote or any words of wisdom you can share?
A: Be you…everyone else is taken!
Q: What’s the most interesting place you’ve ever visited?
A: Hawaii
Q: What’s the best concert you’ve ever been to?
A: Paul McCartney
Q: What’s your favorite junk food?
A: Chocolate
Q: What is one thing on your bucket list?
A: Traveling to Europe
Q: What’s the best part of your job?
A: I love interacting with like-minded people
Q: What’s something you’re proud of?
A: I have run 14 full marathons and 52 half-marathons and counting!
Q: What are some fun facts about you?
A: I hated gym class in high school and also had perfect attendance from 6th - 12th grades!
THIS OR THAT
Coffee or tea? Coffee
Cats or dogs? Dogs
Early bird or night owl? Early Bird
Power of flight or invisibility? Invisibility
Tattoos or piercings? Tattoos
Outer space or the bottom of the ocean? Outer space
Christmas or your birthday? Birthday
Breakfast or dinner? Breakfast
Texting or calling? Texting
Burgers or tacos? Burgers
Movie at home or movie in the theater? At home
Introvert or extrovert? Extrovert
