Meet Clara Shipp. Clara grew up in Clearwater but has been in Kamloops for eight years now. She is a positive woman who loves health, fitness, and achieving her goals.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I grew up in Clearwater, B.C., and moved to Kamloops 8 years ago!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My favourite person to spend time with is my boyfriend Kris! He is my absolute world, and we are never bored together. We share the same passion for health, fitness, and being active. Whatever I do with him...it's always a blast!
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Such a hard question! My favourite local store would have to be Fuel Kamloops. It is a locally owned supplement store that has been so supportive of me over the years. The owners and employees are so friendly, and very helpful whatever your goals are!
Describe yourself in one word.
Positive.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would go to Australia! I lived there for a year when I was 7 years old, and have not been back since. I would love to go back and see the friends' I made, and where they are now in life! Plus-it's winter here..and I am itching for some sun and sand!!!
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Does grocery shopping count? Haha. My favourite activity in Kamloops would have to be taking advantage of the Farmers Market...we are so lucky to have access to such fresh, local food and goods...and I LOVE supporting all of the amazing small businesses.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Hmm...about a year ago I had just finished a personal training session with a new client. I was at the grocery store, and the ice-cream was staring me down. I put it in my basket and turned around...only to run into said client! All about balance though!!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Last summer my boyfriend and I went on a vacation to California and spent the week training at Golds Gym Venice. It is the mecca of bodybuilding, and we were surrounded by SUCH inspiring athletes and people that I have looked up to for a long time. During our FIRST workout..we were there at the same time as Arnold Schwarzenegger!!!! He was working out right next to us, and I was star struck. I didn't want to interrupt him during his workout to take a photo, but I asked him if we could when he was done. He said yes, and then complimented me on my physique and how hard I was training..needless to say that was the greatest workout of my LIFE!
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My favourite childhood memory is just the fact that I grew up in such a small, but naturally beautiful town. Clearwater is home to Wells Grey Park, which hosts spectacular waterfalls and beautiful hikes and views. My parents are very active, and I was exposed to so many beautiful outdoor activities growing up! Hiking, biking, skiing, kayaking...you name it! I totally took it for granted when I was younger, and now whenever I go back to Clearwater I am in awe of the natural beauty and opportunities to explore!
Where do you volunteer or give back toin the community?
I have donated training packages to the annual Pink Ribbon Ball for the last couple of years, and have nothing but positive things to say about that event. I used to volunteer as a server at it, and am so glad that I am now able to continue to support such a great cause in our community! I have recently been doing some volunteer work with the TRU cheerleading and baseball teams through boot camps, and really hope to do more of these in the future! I have also volunteered my time with the gymnastics community to discuss the benefits of proper nutrition, positive self-talk, and positive body image. I love working with youth, as I think that the sooner we start focusing on becoming the BEST versions of ourselves, the better! I was a young athlete, and wish I would have known certain things about my health and wellness growing up!
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I wish that more people would prioritize their overall health and wellness. I see so many people focus on their career, education, family, friends, etc...and put themselves on the back burner. When you invest in yourself and your health, both mentally and physically, ALL aspects of your life will be enhanced and improved. We only have one body, and it is so important to be kind to it, nurture it, and give it what it needs. So many of today's health problems could be solved just by taking control of your fitness, nutrition, and mindset...it truly is the best form of medicine! I love showing my clients' that exercise, and looking after themselves, is about SO much more than just physical progress.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
Well...my boyfriend and I have found some secret beaches along the river that we love going to in the summer for a dip! I can't tell you where they are though. ;)
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
I would love to see more local businesses collaborating to help raise each other up! I have formed some amazing relationships with local business, and truly think that we rise by lifting others. Connecting with other local businesses is seriously awesome!
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
I think that Kamloops is such a diverse city. We are not a HUGE city, but we have all of the amenities of one. I think that the entrepreneurship in Kamloops is blooming, and seeing new businesses pop up all the time is so inspiring...love this city!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Become sponsored by Zevia...it is a stevia flavoured pop that is 0 calorie. I am a HUGE FAN, and I am pretty sure that I should own stock with the company based on the quantity I consume! Sometimes they send me coupons, and have sent me a tank top. I have applied a few times, and am not giving up anytime soon!
2. Take my Mom on a vacation. Growing up, my Mom took me travelling to so many different places, and honestly gave me so many incredible experiences. I fondly remember these trips, and the beautiful places I got to see. I would love to return the favour, and treat her to a vacation we can enjoy together one day!
3. Host a HUGE event with ALL of my clients!!! As an online coach, I work with clients all over the world, and I have actually never met the majority of them face to face! I feel so connected to all of my clients, and like we already have met...but it would be SO FUN to bring everyone together, crush a workout, spend time together, and eat some good food!!!
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I have two different sized thumbs..LOL! One is short and fat, and one is long and skinny. My Mom always told me it was a sign of intelligence...I think to make me feel better HAHA!
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Facebook: Clara Shipp Fitness Instagram: clara_shipp_fitness Website: www.clarashippfitness.com YouTube: Clara Shipp.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Clara Shipp Fitness.
Why did you get into/start this business?
To share my passion for health and fitness...and inspire those around me to invest in themselves and their health, both mentally and physically!
What is the goal of your business?
To empower those wanting to find freedom from restriction, live a balanced and fit life year round, and invest in themselves and their health long term!
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Finding a balance between building my brand and business, while still making time for those that I love and myself. I have poured my heart and soul into Clara Shipp Fitness, and don't plan on stopping anytime soon, but I am slowly learning my "balance!"
What do you always find yourself saying?
"What's up FAM?!" -My Instagram followers will get this... I love connecting with my followers, sharing good vibes, and spreading positive messages!
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Invest in yourself...YOU truly are your biggest and best investment. Don't wait until something happens to open your eyes to the importance of becoming healthy and fit! Most of all - LOVE YOUR DAMN SELF and do what makes you FEEL good!
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I would spend the day with my Grandma. She lives in Cranbrook and has early onset dementia. I cherish every moment that I get to spend with her, as I don't see her as much as I would like. Family is everything to me, and I love spending quality time with those I love.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
By supporting local businesses, you are supporting a family, a small dream, and our city! I think it is so important to support small, locally owned businesses because, as a small business owner, I have nothing but respect for those who follow their dream.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Every day I am given the opportunity to change my clients' lives. Witnessing their personal growth and development is truly my proudest moment, and nothing is better than someone thanking me for changing their lives.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
I want to shoutout Natalie Wolfe, owner of Lashed by Natalie. She is a beautiful boss babe, and momma, who I have supported since day one! Seeing her work SO hard to build her business to what it is now has been SO inspiring to me...love you girl!!!!
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Brittney Evans (baked.bybrittney).
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Thank you SO much for featuring me! I think that these features are incredible opportunities for local businesses to get exposure, as I am constantly finding out about new local business through KamloopsBCNow! I am so grateful for the support and love I have received since starting Clara Shipp Fitness, and am SO excited for the future of my business. Remember...the BEST project you will ever work on is YOU! Clara xx
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kamloops.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great!
