PERSONAL TRAINING
TESSA Morris has made great strides since enrolling in the New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 5) at Otago Polytechnic.
‘‘I definitely was not a sporty kid. I always felt unco-ordinated and out of place in sports, so it wasn’t until I started exploring different types of exercise in my final year of high school that I really started to take part,’’ Tessa reflects.
After trying a range of gyms, classes, and approaches to exercise, she slowly grew more comfortable. Now, she has reached a point where she’s excited and inquisitive, and keen to educate others on the many benefits of exercise — feelings she says shares with many of her classmates.
‘‘It’s a very encouraging and happy place to be.
‘‘The type of learning that happens at Otago Polytechnic is personal, interactive and hands-on. I personally learn better that way.’’
Tessa isenrolled in the six-month full-time option (would-be learners can also study the same programme part time over a year).
‘‘I’ve loved meeting everyone involved in the programme, instructors included. Everyone has been supportive and encouraging. Everyone is happy to chat, help, and listen — and that can be a lifesaver some days.’’
Tessa’s long-term goal is to become a secondary-school teacher, and she would love to combine her enthusiasm for exercise into her teaching ambitions.
But she’s keeping her options open, too:
‘‘For me, if the right opportunity in the fitness industry comes along, I would love to take it. I would be interested in taking a role in group fitness, such as classes or a boot camp.
‘‘There is so much to learn in and around the exercise industry. Hopefully, I can spread the skills and knowledge I gain to others and help them achieve their goals.’’
For more information about Otago Polytechnic’s second-semester programmes and Fees Free eligibility, visit www.op.ac.nz
