ABOUT ME - Norma Pearson, BSc (Hons), DipAPhys, MIAAT.

The two most important questions you might want to ask me are probably:

1) DO I HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE?

Briefly my qualifications are:  

BSc. Animal Science, Reading University
National Certificate in the Management of Horses, Hartpury College
Certificate in Equine Nutrition, Open College of Equestrian Studies
BHS Stage II Riding & Stable Management
Certificates in Merishia sports massage Equine and Canine
Diploma in Animal Physiotherapy, The College of Animal Physiotherapy
Level 2 Exercise To Music certificate

I am a member of both the International Association of Animal Therapists (IAAT) and the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPS), and adhere to their codes of practice. I attend regular CPD courses to keep my skills up to date and expand my knowledge. I hold a First Aid certificate, have full Professional Liability insurance and an enhanced CRB certificate for your peace of mind.


2) WILL I CARE ABOUT YOU AND YOUR PET?

Well, I think my personal background may help with this one....


  Firstly I do not come from a sports, dance or fitness background. Yes, I was THAT short, chubby kid with the thick specs who ALWAYS got picked last for the school sports team. I started riding when I was 7 years old, and loved it because horses give even hopelessly unathletic people like me the chance to feel like a dancer and compete successfully on level terms, unlike many other sports. I have had the good fortune to train with some top professionals including Lynn Russell, the Sederholms and John Smart. I worked as a rider/groom until my mid-twenties when chronic back pain forced me to look for a career outside of full-time riding. My interest in animal physiotherapy and massage started when my horse injured her suspensory ligaments, prematurely ending a promising competition career.

   I have always felt an affinity with animals. My first babysitters were my parents dogs, a German Shepherd and a spaniel crossbreed. I now feel very privileged to be able to help improve an animal's wellbeing and quality of life.
        


   My route into the fitness industry didn't start until I was 30 years old when I joined David Lloyds gym in Worthing. From thinking that grapevines were to do with wine-making and having sleeples nights over box steps I now teach group exercise classes at David Lloyds, providing cover for the regular instructors. Being fitter and more self-confident has helped me to resolve a long-standing battle with various eating disorders dating back to my teens and stabilised my weight. Even better my back pain has, with my improved fitness and regular osteopath check-ups, improved to such an extent that I am currently training for my first marathon in Brighton on 15 April 2012. 

   I pledge that as YOUR Physical Wellbeing Coach I will support, educate and motivate YOU to achieve YOUR goals, whether they be to get fitter, ride better, be more mobile, lose a little weight, boost your confidence, be a more sucessful competitor or improve your pet's quality of life.