BBR Trainer Profile - Blair Ward
The Bodies by Ryan community is frothing over our new trainer, Blair Ward. With so much experience, wisdom and general awesomeness, Blair has glided into the BBR world like he’s been here forever. Which makes sense when you discover his connection to BBR owner Ryan Devereux and the incredible health journey he experienced at a young age. Take it away, Blair…
BBR: How did you end up at Bodies by Ryan? Take us through your fitness career, any education and connection to BBR or Ryan…
BW: It’s been a full circle journey, Ryan and I both use to work at the Christ Church Grammar School (CCGS) gym back in 2013-17, before he started BBR. We actually looked at the Jolimont site way back in the day when it was the old Christmas shop. I remember painting walls at the Government Road gym in Nedlands and the now Claremont HIIT gym with Ryan.
I decided to stay working at CCGS I was heavily involved with the rowing and sports programs. We always stayed in touch as we’d become good friends. Moving forward to the a few months ago I had just sold my Fitness & Education company and was looking for somewhere to continue to work and train my clients.
BBR: What’s your earliest memory of fitness, take us back to the ultimate starting point…
BW: This is a hard question! I think growing up watching the mighty West Coast Eagles was my first exposure to elite athletes and sport. My first memory of training and the gym was from rowing. In year 9/10 we had our firsts weights session and I was paired with a first 8 rower. I tried to keep up and pushed myself so hard I couldn’t bend my arms for a week!
BBR: Where was your first job and what was the biggest lesson you learnt from it?
BW: My first job was at Farmer jacks in Claremont the day I turned 14 and 9 months. I worked behind the checkout and in the fresh fruit and vegetable department. Working every Sunday from 6/7am for pennies on the dollar! This taught me the importance of saving and being smart with how I spend my hard-earned money, something I’d like to think has aided me with my success to date.
BBR: What type of fitness do you partake in outside BBR?
BW: As I’ve matured and aged, I’ve been engaging in a lot of activities outside of just lifting weights. I enjoy getting out and about, currently I spend most of my time either playing golf or walking. You might catch walking around Claremont lake, Bold Park Zamia trail or up in the foot hills.
BBR: What do you love about working in the fitness industry?
BW: I love being able to help other people, I worked out early in life that as personal trainer, we can have a direct impact on people’s lives. It’s the little things in every day/class or session that keep me wanting to get up at the crack of dawn and head to work. Clients’ new PBs, fitting into that suit or dress, reaching a long-term goal or even accomplishing something they never thought possible. We have the best job on the planet in my opinion!
BBR: What would BBR members be surprised to learn about you?
BW: I recently sold my fitness and education company as I wanted a slight change of pace. I also love my golf and hiking.
BBR: What has been your biggest challenge in fitness/career/life (you pick) and how have you overcome it?
BW: The biggest challenge in my life was, hands down, my brain tumor. As a 17/18-year-old, you’re generally a little lost for purpose and just stepping into the big bad world. While it came with its own challenges, it was one of the best things that’s ever happened to me mainly because it taught me a lot about myself and I learnt so much including; hard work always pays off, don’t ever give up, and your body is amazing and can achieve almost anything!
Above: Blaire with his sister before his tumour, discovering his tumour and his beloved hair being chopped during his treatment.
BBR: What health/wellness services do you invest in regularly to keep your body in fine tune (include where you go and how often)?
BW: I’m an avid sauna user, currently I’m using one at a friend’s house however I will be looking at the Recovery Lab near Jolimont BBR very soon! Other then the saunas, I love walking and getting out in the fresh air playing golf.
BBR: What are you currently working on to improve yourself? (Inspire members with your own goals!)
BW: Currently I’m looking into completing some nutrition courses to grow my education in the area. I’m personally training to improve my strength and flexibility to assist with my golf game.
Fast five favourites
1. Favourite BBR exercise? This is a tough one; a DB press or any heavy quad exercises. There is no greater satisfaction then pushing yourself 100% trying to achieve that PR!
2. Least fave BBR exercise? I love them all, but generally the Sled gets me the least excited!
3. Fave café and your order there? Not much of a Café person. I do enjoy the Spiced eggs Benedict at Typika with an iced long black!
4. Favourite meal to prep? Homemade Beef Taco salad bowl & overnight oats hands down!
5. Fave Holiday destination? Top 3: Winter trip to Bali to work on my non-existent tan! Snowboarding in Japan! Canal Rocks in Yallingup!
