Energie Fitness Coach and Personal Trainer, Fiona Slingerland, has always had a passion for sports and fitness. She tells Farah Baig about the importance of training, her specialities and goals too.
Women all across the world are making their mark across several fields – achievements that make their way into the spotlight every International Women’s Day but deserve recognition the year round. In the world of health and fitness, too, women have proven that they have the determination to succeed and make a difference in their communities.
Coming from a sports-centric family, Energie Fitness Coach and Personal Trainer, Fiona Slingerland, uses her passion to help others achieve their exercise and health goals. Originally from Ireland, Fiona has lived and worked in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan, USA and the Kingdom of Bahrain over the last 16 years.
“My parents always encouraged my siblings and I to participate in as many sports as possible. Eventually for me it grew into something more. I was lucky to have had the opportunity to represent Ireland at an international level in table tennis at camps and tournaments across Europe. I have also been a runner since the age of five!” says Fiona.
Having moved to Bahrain with her husband in 2019, Fiona appreciates the investments made in walking and running tracks in the Kingdom. “I really like the fact that I see so many people out exercising on a daily basis. However, some people underestimate their caloric intake and how intense their exercise should be,” she says.
At Energie Fitness, Fiona teaches a range of classes and private sessions aside from doing assessments. “Along with doing Personal Training I teach TRX, which is a total body resistance workout. I also teach a variety of High Intensity Strength and Conditioning classes each week. We have a great fitness team and each of the trainers have their own unique specialisations,” she states.
Notably, Fiona has qualifications in Pre- and Post-natal Training, and Strength and Conditioning Training. “Exercising while pregnant has so many benefits for overall health. However, it’s very important to have received clearance to exercise by a doctor before embarking on a pre- or post-natal fitness plan,” she says.
Regular exercise as part of a pre-natal programme can reduce the risk of complications such as lowering blood pressure, easing back pain and reducing the risk of gestational diabetes. “It can aid in helping a woman to sleep better, help deal with stress and anxiety, and help build strength and stamina. Post-natal training, on the other hand, aids in recovery and helps with an overall positive mental boost once the baby is born. It can help rebuild muscle, promote weight loss and help increase energy levels,” she explains.
Strength and Conditioning programmes are known to increase metabolism, promote muscle building and prevent injuries. Her own programmes have helped her remain injury free over the past 20 years while running at a sub-elite level internationally.
“These can be adapted to any age group. As a person ages, strength training becomes very important as it allows people to stay healthy and active for longer. There is a definite need to focus on muscle building, balance, flexibility and coordination. Conditioning training when adapted correctly can have a lot of cardiovascular benefits,” she explains.
Fiona is currently studying to become certified as a Weight Management Specialist and, in the long run, hopes to move back to Ireland with her husband and continue working in the fitness industry. “Women play such a vital role in society and it’s very important to celebrate their achievements. As this year’s theme is a focus on gender equality, I think it’s very important to highlight the progress that has been made but still strive for a greater goal,” she says.
“As for myself, I have learned over my years of travel to be true to what I believe in and have the confidence to stand up for myself whatever the situation may be,” she concludes.
