Personal trainers with disabilities : Cerebral palsy is often perceived as a limitation for pursuing physically demanding careers.
However, Connor Johnstone has proven otherwise, defying expectations and embracing his challenges.
He is a fully certified personal trainer with a sports science degree and a master’s in strength and conditioning.
Breaking Barriers: Personal Trainers with Disabilities
Now, he is dedicated to supporting others with disabilities who face challenges in staying active at the gym.
However, his self-confidence wasn’t always as strong.
“I used to doubt myself, thinking I couldn’t perform gym movements like everyone else or wasn’t smart enough,” he shared.
“Those thoughts were more about the labels I placed on myself rather than reflecting reality.”
Defying Expectations: Connor Johnstone’s Inspiring Journey
Support from his parents and therapists played a crucial role.
“One of the most important things for me has always been finding ways to adapt,” he explained.
This philosophy is something he now passes on to his clients.
“In one of my previous roles, I worked with many children with autism, creating enjoyable and engaging approaches to exercise since traditional routines often lack the stimulation or fun they need,” he shared.
Challenging perceptions
Shaznaye Bin Kali, 15, is redefining the image of a typical gym enthusiast.
Living with hemiplegia, a condition that affects the left side of her body, including her arms, legs, and facial muscles, she faces unique challenges.
However, her weekly training sessions with dedicated personal trainer Grant Gillon have become a source of empowerment and support.
“Shaz began her journey and hasn’t looked back since. She eagerly looks forward to our sessions every Friday,” Grant shared.
Shaznaye shared that she enjoys the lighthearted banter with Grant during her workouts.
“I love doing lat pulldowns, bench presses, cycling, playing tennis, football, and frisbee,” she said.
Empathy helps
One of the key connections between Shaznaye and Grant is his late diagnosis of ADHD, which he feels has allowed him to build a stronger rapport with clients who have disabilities.
“My thought process is very similar to many individuals with disabilities. I can be quite spontaneous and sometimes need to step back and ground myself,” he shared.
“I’ve also learned that, like me, others often need things repeated multiple times for clarity.”
Grant emphasized the importance of adaptability.
“That’s probably the biggest lesson—being able to think on my feet,” he explained.
If something doesn’t go as planned during a session, he focuses on maintaining momentum by transitioning to the next activity.
“You can’t afford to dwell on it for too long,” he added.
Grant shared that training with Shaznaye requires extra preparation to ensure her safety during workouts.
“We take the time to make sure she has a secure grip, and often, I’ll place my hand over hers initially to prevent her grip from slipping,” he explained.
“Sometimes, we experiment with different attachments and handles to help her achieve a stronger, more comfortable hold,” he added.
Grant explained that his decision to become a personal trainer was driven by his passion for fitness and a desire to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to engage in it.
“The gym isn’t always accessible to everyone,” he noted.
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“That’s probably one of the biggest motivating factors for me,” he added.
Push for more PTs with a disability
Grant explained that his decision to become a personal trainer was driven by his passion for fitness and a desire to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to engage in it.
“The gym isn’t always accessible to everyone,” he noted.
“That’s probably one of the biggest motivating factors for me,” he added.
Grant encourages aspiring personal trainers with disabilities to dive in and gain experience to learn and grow.
“I’m deeply passionate about what I do, and I love seeing the results,” he shared.
“I don’t view what I do as extraordinary or special. In fact, I almost feel selfish because it’s something I genuinely enjoy.”
Connor shares a similar perspective, adding, “When you’re passionate about something, there’s always a way to make it work.”
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