TRAINER OF THE YEAR
Jesse Benson
2024 Impact Magazine Nominee
Jesse's extraordinary contributions to the fitness industry extend beyond the realms of health and well-being. He embodies the essence of a true community leader, philanthropist, educator, and innovative fitness entrepreneur. His unparalleled journey and profound impact on individuals, trainers, and students resonate deeply with the spirit of this esteemed award.
Jesse's Passion and Dedication:
Jesse's passion for fitness ignited at the age of 13 when he discovered old, rusted weights in his parents' shed. With unwavering discipline, determination, and relentless willpower, he sculpted his physique and mastered weight training principles by the age of 17. This early commitment laid the foundation for his dream of becoming a personal trainer.
Mentorship and Excellence:
Jesse Benson embarked on his fitness journey under the tutelage of Mike Casttiloux, former Mr. Canada, and owner of Executive Lifestyles. This mentorship set the stage for an extraordinary career marked by excellence and innovation.
Mastery and Milestones:
To date, Jesse has achieved a remarkable level of mastery over his 15-year personal training career, marked by an astounding milestone of completing over 50,000 personal training sessions—a feat that surpasses all others in North America. His journey culminated in the pioneering of the "Fit in 30 Minutes" training model and program at the age of 23. In 2012, at just 26, he opened his first gym, and his success story continues to flourish with ownership of two thriving gyms in Vancouver and Edmonton. Ambitious plans are in motion for further expansion across Canada and the United States in partnership with Amacon Development.
Trailblazing Achievements:
Jesse's dedication to the fitness industry has earned him numerous accolades, including recognition as a Certified Fitness Educator through NASM. In 2014, he was honored with the Silver Medal by Henry Polessky, the founder of Fitness World, for his outstanding contribution to community fitness. His unyielding commitment to his clients was underscored by the "2022 Business Resilience Award" from Impact Magazine.
Life Transformation and Client Success:
Jesse's commitment to his clients transcends conventional personal training. For 15 years, he has unwaveringly shown up at 6 am, 5 to 7 days a week, offering transformative and results-driven workouts that encompass cutting-edge techniques such as ultrasound assessments, assisted stretching, and nutrition consultations. His holistic and pragmatic approach has transformed countless lives, inspiring two clients to become personal trainers themselves and lead healthier lives. Beyond fitness, Jesse has guided clients through life's most challenging obstacles, including overcoming cancer, addiction, and fertility issues.
Philanthropic Heart:
Jesse's philanthropic efforts radiate warmth and compassion. For eight years, he has hosted free or donation-based community classes, provided health and fitness workshops for underserved communities, and raised funds for local causes. In 2022 alone, Jesse donated over $10,000 to charities such as Boat for Hope, The B.C. Children's Hospital, Tour de Cure, Give a Breath, and Rise and Shine Uganda—a charity dear to his heart. His unwavering commitment to community well-being exemplifies his admirable qualities.
A Visionary Innovator:
Jesse Benson's influence transcends the gym, as he charts new territories in fitness and wellness. Leading Fit Integrated Wellness, one of his wellness companies, he is at the forefront of developing a cutting-edge integrated wellness business model that bridges the gap between fitness and healthcare. His entrepreneurial spirit shines through in his innovative approach, incorporating advanced technologies and training methods into his programs.
Empowering the Next Generation:
Jesse's entrepreneurial vision led to the creation of the National Personal Training Academy (NPTA) in partnership with NASM. NPTA certifies the next generation of trainers across Canada, allowing Jesse to mentor and educate aspiring trainers with the wealth of knowledge he has amassed throughout his successful career.
The Epitome of Excellence:
In every facet of his multifaceted life, Jesse Benson embodies excellence. His dedication to transforming lives, his impact on the lives he touches, his expertise, and his philanthropic spirit all encapsulate the essence of the Trainer of the Year award. Jesse's work exemplifies the profound positive influence that a fitness professional can have on individuals and society as a whole.
In closing, there is no one more deserving of the 2024 Impact Magazine Trainer of the Year award than Jesse Benson. His journey is a testament to the extraordinary heights that passion, dedication, and innovation can achieve. We wholeheartedly endorse his nomination and believe that recognizing Jesse's outstanding contributions would not only be a reflection of excellence but also an inspiration to the entire fitness community.