The experiences that I gained during my two years with Recreational Sports helped shape my career and molded me into the professional that I am today. I had the pleasure of working for Recreational Sports in the Fitness Department for two years after I graduated from Portland State University. I started my time in Recreational Sports as a group fitness instructor for Fit Pass classes. After learning more about the Recreational Sports community and fitness program as a whole, I was afforded the opportunity to grow and learn in my position, expanding to a full-time group fitness instructor and personal trainer.

When I began working at Recreational Sports, Body Pump™ was just beginning in our fitness program and at the same time, we offered the first-ever DAM Fit class. I had the chance to be at the forefront of new programming and work with a number of amazing clients through these programs.

I currently live in California and work for an amazing company called OrangeTheory Fitness. OrangeTheory Fitness uses heart-rate based interval training in a group and personal training setting in order to help individuals reach their health and wellness goals. The professional success I today at OrangeTheory Fitness is directly related to my time at Recreational Sports.

Nicole Bateham

I learned key organizational skills from organizing Dam Fit, the microphone-presence from teaching BodyPump™, and a love of wearing orange (Go Beavers!), whichset me up for a career as a trainer with a company that I love (who’s color also happens to be orange).If it were not for the guidance from both Erika Hanselman Green and Cathy Sullivan during my time at OSU, I can guarantee that I would not have a career with OrangeTheory Fitness.

Working for Recreational Sports has taught me and a lot of alumni that finding a balance between work and play is the key to a healthy lifestyle.

My balance is found through my love of volleyball. I am currently chasing my dream to be a professional beach volleyball player and by doing so, I have had many opportunities to travel the world, train with some of the best beach volleyball players, and play against very high-level athletes. I get to train others in the gym to help them reach their goals, I work hard to reach my own goals, and I spend time at the beach every day. Life is good and I couldn't be happier

 

Read about Nicole’s brother, Eric Bateham, who also has a unique and inspiring story about his time with Recreational Sports!