Patti Bishop
For Patti Bishop, personal training isn't just about helping people look better, it's about helping people feel better. Her focused, dynamic workouts seek to improve your overall health and well-being, from strength and vitality to self-esteem and confidence. Tailoring each session to your specific goals, she infuses every experience with knowledge, energy, and passion. With programs to serve older adults, pre- and post-natal women, and those recovering from injuries as well as brides-to-be who want to get in shape and reduce stress throughout the wedding process. Patti stands behind the North Star Fitness promise to be "your guide to a healthier lifestyle."
A natural athlete, Patti has had a lifelong love affair with fitness. She grew up in a small town in the Kootenays, spending her free time skiing and playing on numerous teams. "I think that it gave me a lot of self-confidence," she points out. "I felt really good about myself." After high school she attended Selkirk College, and then completed a degree in Biology and Environmental Studies at the University of Victoria, where she was active in intramural sports. Always one to embrace a challenge, she soon added boxing to her repertoire. "Getting into the ring is one of the hardest things I have ever done," the fitness enthusiast shares. "If you can do that, you can do anything."
Given her interests, it was no surprise when Patti embarked on a career as a personal trainer in 1999 with Good Life Fitness in Ottawa. Since then she's held several esteemed positions, such as Director for Personal Training at the World Health Club in Calgary, and trainer at the Fitness Group and the Vancouver Lawn Tennis and Badminton Club. Building on these successes, she launched North Star Fitness in early 2004.
Throughout the years, she has been dedicated to expanding her knowledge and expertise with countless courses and specifications. Patti has also been committed to contributing to the community, offering classes at the Jewish Community Center for aging adults and those recovering from strokes and movement disorders (such as Arthritis and Parkinson's Disease).
Patti's own rehabilitation from knee surgery has given her unique insight on those living with pain and physical limitation and this empathy is a quality that she brings to all of her work. "I definitely have patience and I think that helps me with my clients," the trainer reflects. "When they have injuries, I know what that's like. You can't do anything, you can hardly step up onto a step. Some of my clients say, 'How do you put up with me? You must be so bored.' No. I've done the same thing as you. From the very beginning. I know what it feels like."
Ultimately, the key to the North Star approach lies in the ability to make the training process personal, motivating, and effective. "I am one hundred percent focused on my clients," Patti explains. "During the session, we'll talk about what they've been doing, what they've been eating. I want to know: How can I help you work out more on your own What do you need from me And I'll be there with whatever they need. I really want people to achieve their goals."
Certifications
Can-Fit-Pro and BCRPA - Personal Trainer Specialist
As a Can-Fit-Pro and BCRPA Certified Fitness Professional, I demonstrate commitment to the fitness industry and show a high standard of competency and ability. As a leader in the future of Canadian fitness, I provide a reliable source of fitness knowledge and safe, effective exercise for all levels of exercisers.
Can-Fit-Pro and Fit to Deliver - Pre and Post Natal Fitness Specialist
WaterART - Personal Training Specialist
Aquatic Personal Training is different than land training because of the unique properties of water. The properties of water need to be maximized to help our clients get results. We educate our clients on how their body works as well as empowering the client with unique body awareness and balance. The use of progressive techniques to help the client learn and execute movements correctly is paramount for achieving results.
WaterART - Specialized Populations Instructor
WaterART - Parkinson's Instructor
The goal of the WaterART Parkinson's program is to expand and develop the accessibility of both water and land-based fitness programming for those with Parkinson's disease and/or movement disorders. In doing so, we will be able to help those afflicted with Parkinson's disease improve their well-being, and maintain or enhance their quality of life.
WaterART - Arthritis Instructor
The goal of a water Arthritis program is to provide overall physical improvement for performing daily a ctivities such as household tasks, social events and sports. This program aims to improve quality of life by decreasing pain, swelling and stiffness and increasing joint range of motion, agility, balance and strength to prevent injury.
Osteofit Instructor