Sterling's Story
Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Sterling now resides in Langford, BC. He operates his business and home gym from his residence, embracing a lifestyle centered on family, wellness, and personal growth.
Sterling’s journey is deeply rooted in overcoming personal adversity. In his youth, he faced significant challenges with addiction, ultimately making the pivotal decision to reclaim his life. With unwavering support from his family and a strong commitment to self-improvement, Sterling not only overcame addiction but also dedicated himself to ongoing personal development.
His experience with recovery inspired him to prioritize both mental and physical health. Sterling began his professional path in mental health, supporting foster children, before embarking on his own fitness journey. Having struggled with body image issues as a tall, underweight child, he understands first hand the impact of self-esteem and the desire for positive change.
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Fitness became a cornerstone of Sterling’s recovery, providing structure, discipline, and a sense of accomplishment. Through personal training, he discovered a powerful tool for transformation—one that addresses both the mind and body. Sterling is passionate about helping others facing similar struggles, to realize that overcoming adversity is possible when mental and physical health are aligned.
Sterling’s approach to training is grounded in efficiency and evidence-based methods. He emphasizes hard work, proper technique, and consistency, steering clear of quick fixes or fad diets. Instead, he empowers individuals with the knowledge and support needed to maximize their results, making fitness an accessible and sustainable part of their recovery journey.
With over a decade of experience, Sterling has developed a specialized training system tailored for people of all ability levels and lifestyles. His programs focus on low-volume, high-intensity workouts that are personalized to fit into anyone's schedule. By integrating fitness with addiction recovery, Sterling helps individuals build resilience, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose both inside and outside the gym.
The Program
Course Overview
This intensive 2-day course is designed for individuals interested in the intersection of physical fitness, addiction recovery, and mental health. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of how structured fitness programs can support recovery from substance abuse and improve mental well-being. Participants will gain practical tools, evidence-based strategies, and hands-on experience to integrate fitness into treatment plans.
Day 1: Foundations of Hypertrophy & Understanding the Connection
Morning Session: The Science Behind Fitness, Addiction, and Mental Health
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Introduction to myself and my story
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Introduction to addiction and common mental health challenges
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Overview of how substance abuse affects the brain and body
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The role of exercise in neuroplasticity and brain chemistry
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Evidence-based research on fitness as a complementary therapy
Midday Session: Assessing Readiness and Building Motivation through Knowledge and Progress
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Identifying barriers to exercise in individuals with addiction/mental health issues
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Setting realistic, personalized fitness goals
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Safety considerations and medical screening
Afternoon Session: Designing Fitness Programs for Recovery
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Learning how to exercise safely and effectively
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In gym demonstration of proper training techniques
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Types of exercise beneficial for recovery (aerobic, strength, yoga, mindfulness-based movement)
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Structuring sessions and programs for different fitness levels
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Adapting programs for co-occurring mental health conditions
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Group vs. individual exercise - benefits and challenges
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Day 2: Nutrition focus. Practical Application & Program Implementation including Nutrition Strategies
Morning Session: Hands-on Fitness Activities (review of previous days)
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Demonstration and participation in sample workouts
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Mindfulness and movement: integrating yoga and meditation
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Breathing techniques and stress reducing exercises
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Adapting activities for limited mobility or motivation or home workouts with limited equipment
Midday Session: Integrating Fitness into Treatment Plans
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Collaborating with mental health and addiction professionals
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Tracking progress and adjusting programs
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Addressing relapse and setbacks through fitness
Afternoon Session: Complete breakdown of nutrition education in relation to health and fitness
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Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
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Explain the physiological and psychological benefits of fitness in addiction and mental health recovery
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Assess clients’ readiness and tailor fitness interventions accordingly
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Design and implement safe, effective fitness programs for themselves
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Address challenges and setbacks with empathy and evidence-based strategies
Who Should Attend
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Anyone who is in active recovery or post recovery
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​Individuals supporting loved ones in recovery
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Addiction counselors
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Fitness trainers and coaches
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Mental health professionals
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Social workers
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Anyone interested in adopting fitness and health into their lifestyle
Materials Provided
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Course manual and resource guide that includes all information provided in this program
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Sample fitness program templates and guidelines on how to continues to progress in fitness and nutrition moving forward
Note: This course provides ideas and strategies based on current research and best practices. It is not a substitute for medical or psychological treatment. Always consult with healthcare professionals when implementing new programs for individuals with complex needs.
Experience & qualifications
With extensive experience in addiction recovery, mental health support, youth care, and fitness training, I have developed a diverse skill set tailored to supporting individuals with complex needs. My background includes both frontline and managerial roles in hospital security, addiction recovery, foster care, and personal training and nutrition coaching.
Professional Experience
Hospital Security – Eric Martin Pavilion
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Provided protection services at the Eric Martin Pavilion, specializing in working with individuals experiencing a wide range of mental health conditions.
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Collaborated with healthcare professionals to ensure the safety and well-being of patients, staff, and visitors.
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Utilized de-escalation techniques and crisis intervention strategies to manage challenging situations.
Kiwanis Detox Centre
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Supported individuals undergoing detoxification, offering supervision, crisis support, and compassionate care and therapy.
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Maintained a safe and structured environment, responding to emergencies and providing emotional support.
Kiwanis Emergency Youth Shelter
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Dayshift Worker: Delivered direct care and support to youth in crisis, assisting with daily routines, conflict resolution, and resource navigation.
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Full-Time Manager (3 years): Oversaw shelter operations, supervised staff, coordinated care plans, and ensured compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
Level 3 Foster Home
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Respite Care Worker: Provided temporary relief and support in a level 3 foster home, working with youth facing significant mental health and addiction challenges.
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Full-Time Manager (10 years): Lead a team in delivering trauma-informed care, developing individualized support plans, and maintaining a therapeutic home environment for youth in foster care.
Education & Certifications
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Community Mental Health and Addictions Certification – Camosun College
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Canfitpro Personal Training Certification
Entrepreneurship & Fitness Training
Owner – PROform Fitness BC
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Operate a private, self-owned gym offering one-on-one personal training sessions.
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Provide online personal training through a customized fitness app, tailoring programs to individual client needs and goals.
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Combine expertise in mental health and fitness to support holistic well-being.
Key Skills
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Crisis intervention and de-escalation
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Trauma-informed care
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Team leadership and staff supervision
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Program development and management
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Client-centered fitness coaching
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Communication and relationship-building
Summary
My career reflects a deep commitment to supporting individuals with complex needs, whether in mental health care, addiction recovery, youth services, or fitness. I bring a compassionate, professional, and proactive approach to every role, striving to make a positive impact in the lives of others.