Community Champion – Lida Frydrychova
Lida works as a yoga instructor at a variety of clubs across the city, inspiring those she teaches to develop a healthy and active lifestyle
Why is physical activity important to you?
It makes me feel good about myself, I meet new friends, I love to be outdoors and I really enjoy being active.
Can you describe some of the things you have done to promote PA in your community?
I have taught many types of fitness classes in clubs throughout the city including yoga, cycling, aerobics and strength classes. I also like to get my friends out doing activities with me. I often take them to the mountains to cross-country ski, mountain or road bike, and hike. Calgarians are lucky to be so close to the Rockies, there are endless activities to be done there!
What does the concept of “giving back to the community” mean to you, and how have you done this?
I learned to teach many different types of fitness classes when I first moved to Calgary through the YMCA. Since then I have volunteered at the Y for close to nine years. They have a great volunteer community where everyone knows each other. The Y provides ongoing support and education for their volunteers making us happy to share our passion for fitness with the public.
What words of advice would you give someone who was trying to incorporate physical activity into their life?
The most important thing is to make physical activity a priority. I have a very busy working life as a articling chartered accountant at one of the big four CA firms, therefore I must fit in my fitness classes in the early mornings, late evenings or weekends. I also book activity into my daily schedule as I would appointments with my clients, this way I am prepared and never have to miss out. If you are just starting to become physically active, I would advise choosing something simple and inexpensive; walking, running or biking is a great way to start. The fewer barriers you have to begin with the more likely you are to continue with your activity. Finally I would say pick something you enjoy, this will help ensure you develop a life-long habit!
