trainer highlight: meet pat gilles
As we explore movement throughout the month of September, we want to spread the word about our phenomenal community by giving you the how, where, and with whom, you can rely on for a great workout, no matter where you are in the country. These experts are here to bring their expertise and give you insight into who they are, what they do and where you can find them (whether that’s IRL or online).
First up, meet Pat Gilles.
Pat Gilles is the owner of Pat’s Gym. He helps clients achieve optimum health through rigorous physical activity and nutrition, but also teaches them techniques to remove self-imposed obstacles that may be holding them back. The techniques that his clients learn not only help them in dramatically in terms of improved physical performance, but they can also be used to help his clients effectively power through obstacles they encounter in everyday life–whether it be at home, at work, or in other environments. Pat has found the philosophy to be effective for himself, and he has refined it based upon his experience as an athlete and coach.
We caught up with Pat to learn more about his philosophy, what he does when he's not training clients (or himself) and what movements he's loving these days. Here's what he had to say.
What is your fitness specialty?
Through Pat’s Gym, I created a philosophy based on four pillars of fitness: working out consistently, proper nutrition, recovery, and stress management. The stress management aspect is very unique for myself and my athlete, as it requires an individual to deal with stress both at the gym and in their life outside of the gym.
What inspired you to become a trainer?
Playing both in college and professionally, fitness has always been a priority for me. I realized at a young age how mental toughness in the gym can be applied to life and wanted to spread and teach that message.
What has been the most rewarding part of being a trainer?
Not to sound cliché but for me, its helping individuals reach their goals no matter how big or small they are. It is extremely rewarding helping a professional athlete stay in shape for their job, teaching someone how to walk again, and helping a woman through pregnancy.
How do you put together a training program for clients or yourself?
After an in depth assessment, I set up tailored workouts that fit into the individual's realistic schedule, as well as based on strengths, weaknesses, goals, time, and commitment. I apply the tools I have learned over the last 14 years through online coaching as well as personal training. Setting up a plan and really focusing on consistency, more often than not, leads to success.
What is the toughest part about being a trainer?
You usually only interact with an individual for 1-2 hours out of a 24 hour day. I always try to give them the tools to succeed but there are many hours in a day where the choice is up to the individual.
What is your current favorite way to move/current favorite movement?
I love a good EMOM (every minute on the minute) workout and it is probably my favorite way to train. They tend to be a grind, but when designed right, they'll not only test your memory, but your mental grit as well. When the voices telling you you can't finish enter, the fun really begins. Here is an example of an EMOM:
1- 10 box step ups with 2x 50/35# DBs
2- 15/12 calories skierg (sub with no push up burpees)
3- 15 Toes to bar (sub with v-ups)
4- 5 Devil press with 2x 50/35# DBs
5- 15/12 calories bike or run
10 rounds (50mins)
You pick 5 exercises and each exercise you have a full minute to complete the desired work. Any time leftover in each minute is rest.
What movement do you hate, but that you know is an important part of your fitness/movement routine?
I have never been a big fan of running and find I can accomplish the same desired outcome different ways. Even after completing an Ironman it was never for me. That to say, I still think someone should be functional enough to get off the couch and run a 5k as needed.
When you aren’t working out, what do you like to do?
I really love to spend time with my wife Roza, two kids Cully and Lolo, and getting outside on the water as much as possible.
What’s one movement or fitness myth you hate that people think is real?
People think eating fat makes them fat. Eating fat doesn’t make you fat. In fact, the more fat one eats the more the body begins to prefer it as fuel. That being said, there are different kinds of fats. Avoid trans fat and hydrogenated fats. Notice but don’t avoid saturated fat entirely. Get most of your fats from poly-unsaturated and mono-unsaturated sources, things like avocados, nuts, olive oil, etc…
What’s your current favorite song to move to?
I tend to listen to informational podcasts during my warm ups followed by Uzbekistan/ Russian pop genre which is forced on me by my lovely wife. Once I start going hard, I tend to ignore all back ground noises.
Favorite meal?
Nothing beats a good cheeseburger. I also cherish my Saturday morning tradition when my wife Roza makes amazing protein pancakes.
Favorite item of Rhone gear?
I love the Rhone Seerscuker Rec Hoodie!
Where to Find Pat: