Personal trainer working with a client in a downtown Vancouver gym overlooking Coal Harbour

What I Learned Training Over 100 Clients in Vancouver— The 3 Things That Separate the Fit from the Frustrated

If you live in Vancouver and care about your health, you’ve probably tried to “get in shape” more than once—whether that’s through classes, gym memberships, YouTube workouts, or even personal training.


But here’s the truth: after working with over 100 clients in Coal Harbour, Yaletown, and downtown as a Personal Trainer in Vancouver, I’ve noticed a clear divide.


Some people thrive. They move well, feel strong, stay pain-free, and build long-term results.


Others stay stuck in a loop of frustration—starting over, burning out, or getting injured.


Here are the 3 key habits that separate the fit from the frustrated, based on what I’ve learned over thousands of training hours in Vancouver.



1. Fit Clients Train for Longevity, Not Just Looks

Most people come to me wanting to lose fat or look better. That’s a great starting point—but the clients who sustain their results always go beyond aesthetics.


They focus on:


  • Mobility and posture
  • Joint health
  • Injury prevention
  • Balanced strength across all muscle groups

Vancouver’s lifestyle isn’t built for just looking good. Whether it’s hiking the Grouse Grind, skiing at Whistler, or walking the Seawall, your body needs to function well. 


Let’s face it – the weather doesn’t provide much motivation for walking around half naked on the beach for 9 months of the year.


That’s why the fittest clients are training their hips, knees, back, and shoulders with intention—so they can keep doing what they love, pain-free.


2. Fit Clients Build Fitness Into Their Lifestyle

The most frustrated clients are always “trying to fit it in.” They rely on motivation, and if life gets busy—they fall off track.


Fit clients? They schedule their workouts. They treat movement like a non-negotiable meeting with themselves.


They also don’t try to “crush it” every time. Sometimes a 20-minute session is enough to stay consistent—and they understand that consistency beats intensity over time.


This is especially true in Vancouver, where long work hours, parenting, and unpredictable weather can throw off the best of intentions.


3. Fit Clients Don’t Go It Alone

This might be the biggest difference I’ve seen.


People who constantly feel stuck are often trying to do it all alone—YouTube workouts, random meal plans, or gym programs that don’t match their body.


The fittest clients? They invest in coaching.


They realize it’s not about grinding harder. It’s about having a plan, accountability, and support—especially from someone who understands Vancouver’s lifestyle and stressors.


💬 Final Thoughts

You don’t need perfect genetics, endless time, or extreme motivation to get in the best shape of your life.


But if you want results that last—especially here in Vancouver—you need to focus on the right things.


I offer 1-on-1 and semi-private personal training for busy professionals, parents, and high-performers in downtown Vancouver who want to move better, feel stronger, and train with purpose.



📍Looking for a personal trainer in Vancouver?


Let’s chat. Book a free consult here


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