Ainsley Braithwaite

Ainsley Braithwaite

Ainsley Braithwaite

New Leaf Ambassador

Now that my picture caught your attention! I’ll tell you a little about myself. I’m An actual ft mac local who was raised here. I know, you never meet many people from here, so I’m told!

Growing up here I was fortunate enough to have ample opportunity to participate in just about any sport I wanted. My schedule was jam packed with years of Scottish dancing, volleyball, snowboarding, soccer, figure skating and running (Just to name a few!) Competing at national levels in most of these sports was tough work so being anything but the best was the only acceptable outcome.

Some where along the road I lost that drive.

Fast forward to now.. I’m currently a heavy equipment operator in the oil sands. Sometimes the long hours and rough conditions can take a toll on your body and mind. Throughout my career, I’ve tried to beat the unhealthy weight gain and laziness that can creep up on you by surprise with every fad diet there is. I’d follow these diets and find my self in the gym for a month but would always give up with a lack of interest or changes. I always figured there had to be some quick fix out there but I was completely wrong!

This past summer I spent a lot of time in BC with family and friends indulging in the finer things in life. I know how uncomfortable I felt but looking back on some of the pictures solidified that I wanted to change something.

Initially I was just trying to find out how to count macros! But after a quick chat with Kirsten and Justin, I was signing up for my first 12 week program (which then turned into a second!) I was very unsure of myself and didn’t actually think I could do it.. turns out It was the best decision I ever made!

Working with Kirstin and Justin in this journey has been nothing short of amazing. Kirstin has taught me so many new things about diet and training that I’ve completely thrown anything I thought I knew out the window. To put it simply she has helped me turn this into a new passion. I wake up everyday excited to hit the gym or get outside and do something active. The gym and healthy eating has become so much a part of my daily life again I can’t imagine giving it up for old habits!

Not only have I become more comfortable with myself and the changes in my body, my strength and endurance is better than it’s ever been. Anyone that knows me knows I live for snowboarding, volleyball and anything to do with water. The improvements I’ve noticed in these are awesome. I used to be sore and tired after 1 game of volleyball or a couple hours on the slopes. Today I can play in 2 day tournaments without skipping a beat and spend days (not just hours!!) In my favorite place, the mountains.

This change in my life is still on going and I’m striving to push myself a little more everyday. I can’t wait to see where I can be in the future, and that’s thanks to Newleaf for their coaching and helping me to reach a new personal success. Continuing to work with the Newleaf family is something I’m very proud and excited to be a part of !