Hi there! I’m Valerie. You may have seen me around – I consider myself the unofficial welcome committee, and have been a member at PDX Strength since 2014! It’s a bit of my passion to seek out and reassure new faces because I was there once, too, so transitioning to the coaching role feels like a fitting next step. I look forward to guiding you in class, and being a part of your health and fitness journey.
Though I tried a variety of sports as a youngster, my fitness history has primarily been playing soccer (sweeper and goalie). In college at Iowa State, I got my BFA and MA in graphic design. During and following college, I lifted and used cardio equipment on my own, at a 24-hour gym. I didn’t think I needed, nor wanted, a group fitness experience. After moving to Portland in 2014, however, my husband and I joined the gym as a way to get out of the house, meet people, and stay healthy and active. As a true beginner – who was nervous, timid, overwhelmed, and didn’t know any of the movements – I kept at it, and have worked my way towards bettering my mental and physical health ever since.
When I first came to the gym, I couldn’t squat. I have what’s called Patella alta, and my high seated knee caps have been giving me trouble for a long time. Through years of rehab and help from previous coaches, PTs and a dedication to overcoming my limitations, I’ve been able to progress in many areas. Because of this condition, and other minor skeletal hangups, I have ample experience altering workouts to accommodate someone’s needs. I also have knowledge and experience with disordered eating. I hope you’ll come check us out. Any workout can be modified for anything that bothers, limits or ails you, or whatever your body may need instead that day. I also make our marketing material for the gym.