On fitness: Trainer changes woman's life
Many people turn to fitness to accomplish a lifelong goal. Some train to run that first 5k or to complete a triathlon. Preparing for a fitness event serves as a great form of motivation and makes those trips to the gym a bit more bearable. Monique Brindel of Gulf Breeze, however, was motivated by two very different life-changing desires.
"Most important to me was to stay in shape all of my life," said Brindel.
Her top priority was simply to be a healthier individual. Throughout her life she had played tennis and taught yoga. Seventy-eight years, however, had brought on health issues that she believed would keep her from reaching her goals. To turn the years around she sought an expert and an appropriate fitness program.
Personal trainer Racquel McElroy of Pensacola took Brindel under her wing in July of 2002. Together they packaged a program to help Brindel become that healthier person.
"We meet twice a week to help me continue my exercises," said Brindel. "Racquel is so professional and is helping me to take care of myself".
Obviously, turning to fitness as a motivation for becoming healthier isn't all that uncommon. What is unique about Brindel's dedication, however, is her second desire. Brindel returned to the gym each week because it offered her an opportunity to practice the English language.
Brindel and her husband had moved to the United States from France to be with their daughter, and it was their desire to make America their new home. To gain her citizenship, Brindel needed to understand English and it was fitness that allowed her to reach that goal. "The transition was very hard," said Brindel. "Going to the gym gave me the chance to learn to speak English".
Each week McElroy taught Brindel the proper exercises to help her become healthier. And each week McElroy taught Brindel English. For two years they battled towards accomplishing both goals and in 2004 Brindel became a U.S. citizen. "Racquel has been so friendly and I am able to continue yoga and speak better English thanks to her," said Brindel. They continue to work hard in the gym twice a week and while the second goal has been attained, Brindel continues to work on the first goal - to be the healthiest American she can be. Je vous verrai a la gym!
Elese Woollen
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