Hi, I’m Val — a strength enthusiast, nature lover, DIY hobbyist, and someone who believes deeply in the power of rebuilding yourself, no matter how many times you’ve had to start again.

I live in Winnipeg, Manitoba with my husband, James — a firefighter–paramedic — and our four fur-kids: Huckleberry Finn and Peaches (our dogs) and Kilo and Murdoch (our very opinionated cats). I’m happiest when I’m outside, exploring a new trail, or when I’m getting lost in a DIY project I definitely thought would be quicker.

My journey into fitness

My story in health and fitness began in 2008, when I stepped into a CrossFit gym for the first time. What I thought would yet another attempt at getting more active, became a huge part of my life (after 2 years of inconsistency though!). I discovered a passion not only for CrossFit, but also for Olympic Weightlifting and Powerlifting — eventually competing nationally in all three.

For years, I chased numbers, challenges, competitions, and the thrill of seeing what my body could do (rather than what it looked like). That period of my life shaped so much of who I am, and it introduced me to some of the most meaningful friendships and experiences I’ve had.

I began coaching in 2010 and now hold certifications in CrossFit (L2), Olympic Weightlifting (NCCP L1), and Powerlifting (CPU L1) and many more— but even with those achievements, the real lessons came from what happened outside of competition.

The parts of the journey most people don’t see

Strength ended up come naturally to me — but confidence hasn’t. Along the way, I’ve dealt with:

• injuries that forced adjust and relearn

• seasons of body dysmorphia

• weight fluctuations

• losing (and rebuilding) my identity in fitness

• and being diagnosed with an autoimmune condition: Undifferentiated Peripheral Inflammatory Arthritis

There were months where moving felt effortless… and months where I had to modify nearly everything or celebrate simply getting through a day without pain.

Those chapters taught me humility, resilience, and what it means to rebuild yourself — physically, mentally, and emotionally. They shifted my relationship with fitness from something competitive to something deeply meaningful and personal. A lifelong journey.

Beyond the gym

Outside of training and coaching, I’m someone who:

• loves being in nature

• thrives on exploring (mostly close to home)

• always has a DIY project on the go

• values friends & family, connection, and community

• believes deeply in finding yourself — even when it’s messy

I’m also endlessly curious, a bit of a planner, and someone who genuinely loves getting to know people and their stories.

Why Valere Moves exists

Valere Moves was born from all these pieces of my life: the competitive years, the injuries, the rebuilding, the education, the setbacks, the small victories, and the understanding that strength is never just physical.

It’s the culmination of my experiences — the good, the hard, and the transformative.

Above all, it reflects what I’ve learned over decades of movement: you can always begin again, and you never have to walk that path alone.

Valere: “To be strong, health and powerful”