Hector Paredes works as an Exercise Specialist in Sydney (Australia), and has been a Les Mills Instructor since 2017, having trained in BODYPUMP® and BODYCOMBAT®.
Hector was nominated by Group Fitness Manager, Jessica Paulic, who knows Hector through his Instructor role at Fairfield Leisure Centre. Jesscia says, "Hector is an inspiring example of passion, dedication and resilience in the world of fitness. Since beginning his Instructor journey in 2017, Hector has consistently gone above and beyond – not only maintaining his commitment to teaching, but excelling in it.”
She adds, “At 70 years young, Hector teaches an impressive 7 classes a week. This includes 3 x BODYCOMBAT®, 3 x BODYPUMP®, and 1 x HIIT class. His energy, strength, and enthusiasm are unmatched, and he brings 100% to every session.”
“What sets Hector apart is not just his physical stamina, but his unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality, motivating and empowering classes. He creates a positive atmosphere where participants of all levels feel encouraged, challenged and supported.”
“Hector is a true role model and a testament to the idea that age is no barrier to greatness. His passion for fitness and his commitment to his community make him truly deserving of this nomination.”
We caught up with Hector to find out about his Instructor journey to-date, and this is what he told us.
What is your favourite Les Mills program and why?
I first fell in love with BODYCOMBAT – the energy, and the way I feel after every class; it's so exhilarating. But then, BODYPUMP is just as good! It's hard to pick a favourite program, but one thing’s for sure, I get the best of both worlds: agility and strength!
Who or what inspired you to initially become a Les Mills Instructor?
From very early in my life I have always been involved into fitness, coming from a country that worships soccer, I started playing basically as soon as I was able to walk! But when I stopped playing soccer, I became interested in a different kind of fitness and that was when I discovered aerobics classes! One day at my gym, I was introduced to a new type of class called BODYCOMBAT and I immediately fell in love with it. Coming from a family of boxers – my dad and uncles were into boxing – I felt very comfortable with this workout, and I was inspired to become an Instructor by the amazing Les Mills Instructors in my gym.
What do you love most about being a Les Mills Instructor?
Being a Les Mills Instructor can be incredibly rewarding. Empowering others, seeing members grow stronger and more confident and fitter week by week, is what I love; it makes me so proud.
Tell us about an unforgettable moment that you've had as an instructor
Being a part of the BODYCOMBAT 100 Release event that our Fairfield Leisure Centre organised earlier this year, where I taught in front of 200 members alongside my fellow Instructors and our Les Mills Master Trainer, Natasha Ekmekjian!
Who has been your biggest influence on your Les Mills career to-date?
My mentors in the Leisure Centres: Debbie Scott, Grace Vaccari and, also Master Trainers Natasha Ekmekjian and Dani Bayadi. But the biggest influences are, of course, our Program Directors Glen Ostergaard, Rachael Newsham and Dan Cohen.
You did not pass on your first attempt at your BODYPUMP and BODYCOMBAT certifications. What advice do you have for other Trainees who may also have to resit their assessment?
I did not pass on my first attempt, but I never gave up! If anything, it made me a better Instructor.
I have always had a highly competitive nature, and experiencing failure in both instances left me feeling extremely disappointed.
While having confidence in oneself is generally viewed as beneficial, I attribute my need to resit to being overly confident, which can have adverse effects, such as taking on too much and losing sight of the basics. I was unprepared, so I had to maintain a positive attitude and refocus. I do not recall exactly where I came across the phrase, "if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail", but it rang true for me.
Following my Mentor's advice, I took a couple of weeks off from training, to clear my mind and return refreshed and prepared to recommence. This proved to be the right approach for me.
To me, having to resit felt like I just lost the initial round but not the fight. I knew I would come back stronger for the second round! I was lucky to have a great supportive team in my Mentors and fellow Instructors, and I attribute this support to helping me pass on my next attempt.
My advice to anyone else in a similar situation is to stay committed; reflect on the reason that led you to start this journey; and know that although the early phases may be hard, the outcome will make the hard work worthwhile!
What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a Les Mills Instructor but doesn't quite feel ready?
Get a mentor like I did. Participate in as many classes as you can, and never be afraid to ask questions and seek advice from your Instructors.
At first it might be scary, but as you get more experience it will be an amazing journey!
You can find or follow Hector on social media via: Facebook @hector.e.paredes and Instagram @i.m.hector..
