What made you want to start boxing? I wanted to change up my fitness routine.

Which is your favorite class at Contenders, and what do you like about the class? Each class has its own charm. What I like best is the social aspect of the classes. Contenders offers a fun and motivating environment.

What is your boxing/fitness goal? Get back in shape and find a race that inspires me.

What is your weakness with boxing/fitness you would like to improve? I’m terribly uncoordinated and have poor balance so that would be something to improve on.

Who is your favorite boxer (pro-boxer, your fellow member, anybody!) and what do you like about him/her? Kevin. Because he’ll be doing my burpees for me. (We’re considering a new tradition that the COTM can have a staff member do burpees, Implementation is pending).

What do you like to do in your free time other than boxing? Mountain biking, trail running.

What is your advice for people who are thinking of starting boxing at Contenders? Do it.

How has your experience at Contenders been?

It’s been quite a journey. When I first started I was just trying to lose a few pounds and certainly wasn’t someone you’d think of as active or into fitness. Less than 4 years later my life has totally changed and I’ve actually started to work in the fitness industry. I would certainly give Contenders a lot of credit for all that’s happened.

Which is (are) your favorite class(es) at Contenders, and what do you like about them?

My favourite classes are definitely the training camps, I don’t have one I prefer over the other. I love the high intensity and challenge they bring; it’s difficult to replicate on your own.

What is your goal in boxing/fitness you are working to achieve?

I just keep trying to push the limits of what I’m capable of. I’m planning to run my first marathon in 2020 and might start getting into triathlon stuff after that.

What is your weakness in boxing/fitness you would like to improve?

I primarily attend the training camp classes, so my actual boxing definitely needs some work.

What/who inspires you to continue training?

I enjoy it so much now that I don’t really need motivation anymore. Maybe being able to eat a tray of cookies before bed without gaining weight!

What is your advice for people who are thinking of joining Contenders?

Do it. The classes and instructors are so effective that all you have to do is show up. Get to as many classes as possible and the rest will work itself out. There’s so much confusion and misinformation with health/fitness these days that simplicity is usually best- if you can get to a class almost every day, any issues with weight or not feeling energetic aren’t going to last long.

What is your occupation and what do you like to do in your free time other than boxing?

As mentioned I now work as a personal trainer and I’m also certified as a “health coach”, so I have a small practice with a handful of clients I’m building. When I’m not doing that stuff I spend a lot of time around the beaches/Stanley Park swimming, paddle boarding, running etc. Hibernation from November through March!

If you have any comments you would like to share with others, please feel free to do so!

Obviously it’s been a tough year with the flood, but great to see how the staff and members have come together and kept things going at the temporary space. I’m sure 2020 will be a great “comeback” year for Contenders! Happy Holidays to everyone.

Great job Cooper! We’re inspired by your dedication and personal transformation in so much of your life. A Contender through and through.