Amy Bennett

I’ve been playing competitive soccer for about 6 years now, but have played soccer since I could walk. It’s been a huge part of my life. It started with just showing up at practices and games and played as well as I could. But as the years and levels became harder and harder, and now sitting at the top 45 teams in Ontario, soccer became a totally new perspective in my life besides just a game. I learned how much fitness is a necessity in a 90 minute game full of tackles, sprints, defending, and creating a spectacular play into a beautiful goal.

Now, entering the level that I am I decided to make fitness my number 1 priority. I asked Lyle to help me reach that next level with my conditioning. Over the winter I worked out more than ever, trying my best to fit a workout in everyday through my busy schedule, and giving everything I have during the workout. One goal I had through all of this was to improve my cardio for the soccer season. Lyle’s cardio workouts are not easy. He makes each one different and perfectly made to mimic what I do on the field. I buckled down and threw up a lot, but I have improved so much and my cardio workouts are a lot harder and more challenging now than they were when I started.

Not only have I become stronger in the gym physically, but mentally to – especially my confidence. The truth is I used to hate my legs. I used to hate how big and muscular they were while other girls could fit into any summer shorts they wanted. It just didn’t seem fair. However, I’ve learned to like them more. Lyle has taught me through the many workouts I’ve had that right now soccer is what matters most and the strength of my legs is what makes me excel on the soccer field. He’s helped me understand why I’m going through the workouts I’m doing with him. Now I’m more confident knowing how much these size of legs are the perfect thing I need for my soccer. Even though they might be a tad bigger than how I want them, when I’m on the field they’re the favourite part of my body.

The soccer season has started and while I hear everyone complaining and struggling during fitness drills at practice, I’m enjoying myself and feeling proud that all my hard work paid off. More than that, I was named captain of my team and have been asked to lead fitness sessions outside of soccer practice. I’m thankful I worked as hard as I did and kept my goal in sight. My training paid off and now I get to share it with other girls on the team

Through my journey here at LD Fitness, that has only just begun, I’ve learned that I can do anything I set my mind to. But the key is if I set my mind to it. Because my cardio is so much better now I no longer listen to myself say that I’m tired and need a rest, because I don’t. Because I know I can do it. Because I’ve learned through many brutal workouts that the only limits on my life are the ones that I think are there. I’ve learned to face fears, never give up, and to keep on moving forward. I am so thankful for LD!