Featured Coach – Valli G, YMCA Train Like You Mean it!

I am so grateful for lessons I was taught at an early age.  My Dad, a decorated Air Force Aviator and life-long runner always had a nugget in his back pocket.  Despite the fact that he lost a long battle with cancer when I was in my early twenties, his lessons have lived on.

“Do what you love, love what you do,” he would say. He did. And because of his example, I am lucky to say, so do I.

While working for the YMCA througout college (as an exercise instructor and trainer), I never imagined it would become my career; it was just too fun.  I later discovered it could become a profession.  Surprise.  I had the opportunity to serve as a Senior Health and Wellness Director and the like throughout the country.  Throughout my many years (too many to count) what I enjoyed the most about the YMCA work was developing and implementing programs that enabled people to reach beyond their personal expectations.  Breaking down barriers.  Overcoming obstacles.

Fast forward years later. My “plans” changed after giving birth to two children with special needs.  Luckily, I was able to go back to what my Dad had instilled in me as a young girl.

I found a way to professionally keep doing what brought me tremendous joy.

Train Like You Mean It is a labor of love.  A program designed to take people on a journey of a lifetime– we utilize endurance sports as a vehicle for taking that trip.  Whether it’s training for a triathlon or a marathon, our athletes discover their inner and physical strength, while building lasting friendships.  To date, over 400 athletes have crossed the finish line since the program’s 2008 inception.

From the beginning, Kevin Rausch and his Team have been an integral part of fulfilling our mission.  Whether it is offering educational workshops, injury prevention, or treatment for injury, Rausch PT has helped keep our athletes in the game (in and out of the clinic).  Changing lives and keeping people active for a lifetime is our primary goal.  And with the support of Rausch PT–our athletes do just that.  Every team member that steps foot in his clinic, (whether a brand new runner or seasoned triathlete), is treated like a first-rate athlete!

Another valuable thing my Dad taught me was to surround yourself with people who inspire and lift you up.  Guess that’s why I love hangin at Rausch PT.

For more information on upcoming Train Like You Mean It programs, contact valli.gideons@gmail.com

Valli Gideons

YMCA Triathlon & Run/Walk

Training Programs