December Trainer of the Month - John Ellem
The YMCA of Parkersburg's Trainer of the Month is designed to help you get to know the trainers that help make our Y community great. This month, we’re introducing John Ellem who instructs some of our Yoga classes. Get to know John by reading his responses to our interview questions below.
1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself: what are some fun facts about you?
I have practiced law for 28 years, served in the WV Legislature for 14, and practiced Yoga for 20. Yoga has helped keep me centered throughout. I once spent a month in Cambodia, which included teaching English at a rural school and living at a Buddhist monastery for a week learning meditation while also teaching English.
2. What fitness class/classes do you instruct?
I teach Gentle Yoga at the YMCA of Parkersburg and also volunteer to teach Yoga classes at the Parkersburg Correctional Center.
3. When and why did you become a trainer? What's your style of training?
I went through Yoga teacher trainer in 2016 and registered with the Yoga Alliance. I became a teacher to share the amazing variety of poses and their benefits.
4. Tell us a bit about the class you instruct.
The Gentle Yoga Class I teach is suitable for both beginners and experienced students. It is designed to relax the body, calm the mind, and improve strength, balance, and flexibility. We do a nice variety of Yoga poses (asanas) and an emphasis is also placed on proper breathing.
5. What is your favorite part about instructing at the Y? Favorite part about the Y?
I love that the Y introduced Yoga classes around 15 years ago and has always offered wonderful Yoga instructors. I enjoy seeing new and returning students in class and helping them grow in their practice while I grow in mine. It is simply a great time and place to relax, release, and improve your fitness.
Interested in joining the Y community?
For more information about group fitness classes and trainers, please contact Crystal Leonard, Health & Fitness Coordinator, at 304-485-5585, ext. 213 or crystal.leonard@parkersburgymca.org.