VIDA Instructor of the Month: Will Emslie
One of our most tenured VIDA instructors is Will Emslie – teacher of cycle, VIDA Circuit, VIDA Body & VIDA Xtreme. You’ve probably heard that his classes are a little on the intense side, and you’ve heard correctly.
Will is a former Cross Fit athlete and likes to bring that high-intensity, competitive atmosphere to his classes at VIDA. You’ll quickly be able to tell that he has a very athletic background (he grew up playing hockey and baseball in Toronto) and loves to introduce challenging but effective exercises to his students.
After studying political science at UNLV, Will moved to DC to work for the government about 12 years ago. He served 10 years with the secret service and now works for the Department of Homeland Security. He’s been a VIDA Verizon member since the location opened eight years ago, and started teaching in 2011. He’s now teaching six classes a week at both Verizon and City Vista, and still manages to fit his own workouts into his busy schedule.
“I started out just teaching VIDA Body & VIDA Xtreme. I was super nervous at first but now I love it. There’s just something awesome about seeing a room full of people competing against each other to finish their burpees first,” he says.
He recognizes that his classes may be slightly tougher than other instructors’ classes due to the competitive nature and Cross Fit elements that he incorporates into them. You can expect a ton of burpees, thrusters and push-presses in his classes, but with the proper guidance to make sure everyone is doing the exercises safely and with proper form.
Two years ago Will decided it was time to try something new and added Cycle to his teaching repertoire.
“I was looking for a way to switch things up and spinning is a great way to get your cardio in. Plus I love being able to create the playlists – the music is everything when it comes to cycling!” he says.
On top of teaching almost every day, Will sticks to a weight-lifting routine six times a week and is a member at Solidcore. You’ll typically find him squeezing in a workout right before class starts – so don’t be surprised if he’s already super pumped up and ready to go before the class begins!
Will says his favorite thing about teaching is the people he’s met through his classes.
“I’ve made the most amazing friends here and I have the most loyal following. No matter how hard I make my workouts I can’t seem to scare them away!” he says with a laugh. “I’m just surprised they’re not sick of me after four years!”
When Will isn’t working out or putting others through his workouts, he enjoys catching up on his Bravo shows and exploring local bars and restaurants.
“I’m a total reality TV junkie! I love the Real Housewives. And I love going out with friends to anywhere that has a good margarita!” he says.
If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in one of Will’s classes, make sure you came with plenty of water and a towel! You might feel like you’re dying halfway through, but we promise you’ll feel amazing afterwards!
Have you tried Xtreme yet? Watch the video below to see Will in action!
