First Step Team
At First Step all of our trainers regularly partcipate in workshops, continuing education and in house workouts to make sure we stay on top of new trends and emerging information. Take a look at our trainers individual profiles and meet the team!
Hidesh Bhardwaj
Owner/Trainer
- B. Ed: Physical Education / Kinesiology
- CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist)
- MES (Medical Exercise specialist)
- Mt. Royal College: Men’s Basketball Strength and Conditioning Coach
- Emergency First Aid
In his home town of Vancouver, Hidesh’s love for sport and dedication allowed him to compete in track and field, rugby, volleyball, baseball and basketball at an elite level.
It was at McGill University, while playing varsity basketball, where his desire to improve his athletic ability grew into a passion for health and fitness. Studying physical education and kinesiology provided him with the tools and education necessary to become a successful trainer.
While playing professional basketball in Europe, Hidesh had the opportunity to learn from Olympic level trainers and work with professional basketball, soccer and hockey players.
Hidesh has brought his expertise and unique ability to motivate to Calgary, and although he has worked with many elite athletes, he is experienced and enjoys working with people from all walks of life.
” Regular physical activity and healthy nutritional habits are a key factor in reaching and maintaining a high quality of life “
Justin Sinclair
- B.Kin – University of Calgary
- CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist)
- Standard First Aid
Justin has always been interested in sport and fitness. He has a passion for being physically active and encouraging others to do the same. He finds it fulfilling to see people make improvements in their lives and reach goals they set for themselves.
Justin has recently completed his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology at the University of Calgary and while attending school competed nationally with the varsity track and field team. He has also competed in a high level of sports such as Hockey, football and soccer which has led him in his desire to project his experience, knowledge and earned training on those he works with.
Justin is ready to work with you every step of the way, whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking to incorporate physical activity into your lifestyle. His outgoing personality and motivating energy make Justin a great personal trainer for anyone.
“Motivation is always key when starting to become more physically active and healthy, but in order to keep it going it has to become a lifestyle habit”.
Vanessa Cannon
- CPT – Mt Royal University
Having grown up in Canmore, Alberta Vanessa has always been in touch with the outdoors. Being in the mountains, snowboarding and trail running have always been natural pastimes. In high school Vanessa excelled in basketball and competed at the provincial level in cross-country running, and track and field. After high school Vanessa spent periods of time travelling different areas of the world experiencing new cultures as well as seeing how physical fitness is practiced around the globe.
Currently Vanessa is finishing the Mount Royal University’s Personal Fitness Trainer certification program. When she is unable to make it back out to Canmore, Vanessa enjoys using the cities natural landscape to run, bike, and enjoy fitness classes at her favourite studio
“Determine that the thing can and shall be done, and then… find the way.” Abraham Lincoln
Kelsey House
- Advanced Certificate in Athletic Therapy – Mount Royal University
- Honours Bachelor of Kinesiology – Lakehead University
- CSEP – CPT
- Emergency Medical Responder
Kelsey’s true love for sport began and remains on the ice. Growing up in Ontario, she dedicated 16 years to competitive figure skating. When she wasn’t lacing up her skates, Kelsey could be found in the local high school gym staying actively involved on the basketball, volleyball and soccer teams.
After high school, Kelsey pursued her passion for sport and activity at Lakehead University and completed the Honours Bachelor of Kinesiology. This is where she realized that Mount Royal University’s post graduate program in Athletic Therapy was going to bring her back into the game. Her love for sport is what keeps her motivated on the sidelines while working with athletes from high school football to the national tumbling and trampoline teams.
Kelsey is excited to bring her Athletic Therapy background and past experiences from training on and off the ice and into the gym to motivate and promote healthy lifestyles for all ages.
“Realizing your goals is the first step to success. Determination is the driving force that’s going to get you there”.
Shari Anticknap
- Nutrition & Weight Loss Expert
Shari received her education from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition (CSNN) and holds an RHN (Registered Holistic Nutritionist) designation. She is also a proud member of the professional organization the Canadian Association of Natural Nutritional Practitioners.
As a Nutrition & Weight Loss Expert, Shari teaches overweight, busy and stressed out women the “How to” of losing weight. She uses a safe and healthy approach to weight loss that has proven to give her clients results.
Although she is knowledgeable in all aspects of nutrition her passion and area of expertise is weight loss. Shari is the creator of The Body Transformation Program, a personalized and practical approach to losing weight. She doesn’t believe in quick fixes, instead Shari educates and transforms clients with healthy lifestyle choices. Her easy to follow 10 step program is designed to accommodate busy schedules and provide long term results. People find they have more energy and have fewer health complaints.
Shari experienced her own health challenges in the past and struggled with weight in her younger years. This has given her a deep understanding of the questions and concerns faced by women that want to lose weight and improve their health.
If you would like more information Shari can be contacted through her website,
www.wellnessandnutritionmatters.com