Education & Experience
James’ passion for health and fitness dates back to his early teens. He grew up playing multiple sports but, despite his long-standing athletic experience, James suffered multiple injuries. He decided it was time to stop being a passive victim to sports injury, and understand why this kept happening. James began learning about the principles of strength training and movement. With these principles he rebuilt his body and began moving better and stronger than ever before. He decided he wanted to help other young athletes avoid the hardships he had faced, by teaching individuals how to “injury-proof” themselves with preventative measures and proper training.
James at the RKC Level I certification in St. Paul, MN 2009
James began in the fitness industry in 2008 when he fell in love with hardstyle kettlebell training and subsequently completed CFES Instructor and Knowledge courses through Douglas College. James began his professional career in 2009 after successfully completing the Russian Kettlebell Instructor Certification (RKC), and shortly after became certified by the BCRPA. During his time as an RKC Instructor from 2009 - 2013, James was the highest rated RKC in Canada, with all reviews rating him 10/10.
James began working with clients with a focus on kettlebell training but, having an insatiable thirst for learning and gaining a holistic understanding of strength and movement, soon branched out into other fields of practice. In 2010, James became a certified Crossfit Level I Instructor, as well as received certifications in Olympic Lifting and Certified Kettlebell Functional Movement Screening (CK-FMS).
James at It's Time Fitness Results, in North Vancouver, 2013
In April 2013, James followed RKC developer Pavel Tastouline with hundreds of others to a new kettlebell movement and organization, StrongFirst. James, attended the first ever StrongFirst (SFG) Instructor Certification Level I. James continued to train and progress and since 2013 has attained and maintains his SFG Level II Certification.
James' inner monkey and love of real, natural human movement led him to become a Primal Move Fundamentals I instructor in 2013.
James has also participated in Ido Portal's Movement Culture workshops in 2013 and 2015.
He has taken multiple workshops with the late Charles Poliquin and the Strength Sensei group. Through Strength Sensei, James has had the opportunity to learn from legendary Olympic weightlifter Dimitri Klokov and coach Pierre Roy.
Since his initial beginnings specializing in kettlebell training, James has become versed in a multitude of strength conditioning methods and movement practices. His practice is constantly improving. He has come from working primarily with athletes to working with a spectrum of individuals including general public, athletes, and industry professionals alike.
Perspective
James is a firm believer in the ability to balance health, fitness, and lifestyle habits in a way that allows a person to truly enjoy life. He believes that a solid base of functional strength and movement serves as a platform for which to grow and cultivate an amazing life. Through strength and movement, James believes you can truly gain a sense of purpose, find your passion, and feel real pleasure in your life.
James enjoying some work on his Olympic lifts
James prides himself on being a life-long learner. He continually strives to educate himself and improve his personal and professional practice.
Nothing he does is half-hearted; James' drive and genuine passion for what he does is just one aspect that sets him apart from other trainers. His unique perspective and approach, inspires and motivates his clients in ways they never thought possible.