Staff Spotlight: Larissa Escamilla-Ocanas

What is your role at Ballard Health Club and how long have you worked at BHC?

I am a personal trainer and the Personal Training Coordinator here at BHC. As a trainer, I work with folks to design strength training and mobility programs, teach people how to use various gym equipment, and correct and improve movement deficits. Most importantly, I teach folks how to gauge workouts that will contribute positively to their holistic health. Many of the clients I work with have some kind of chronic condition they are dealing with (shoutout to my hypermobile community!) and I strive to get people moving within their capacity.

What do you love most about working at BHC?

I love empowering people through education; knowing how and what to move can be life changing, especially for folks dealing with chronic mobility or health issues. I love the ability to network and build community, and am working to help establish more communal opportunities in the club. The exhibition meets that we've had previously are one example of the community opportunities I love to bring to the gym. If I'm ever not working with a client, feel free to say hello!

Do you have a favorite success story from working with a member?

I frequently work with folks that are hypermobile or have connective tissue disorders. Being able to take someone from not being able to walk without pain, to squatting with heavy weight pain free is incredibly rewarding. 

What’s your favorite part of your job?

I love being able to teach and educate...and I love my clients :) I wouldn't be here without them. They help challenge me to learn more about the human body and our biomechanics every day. Being able to reconfigure even the smallest movements is a fun puzzle for me!

What’s something fun or surprising about you?

I'm a competitive strongwoman and I've lifted a car 18 times in one minute. I'm hoping to pull a semi truck someday!

Any hobbies outside of the gym?

DnD (Dungeons and Dragons), board games, video games, attending concerts or raves, flowing with my poi or juggling (helps me learn how to be more in tune with my body!)

Favorite workout playlist or hype song?

I usually listen to Dubsteb, alt rock or recession pop (early 2000s).