MINDBODY
When you come to Castle Hill Fitness, you’re entering so much more than just a gym. You’re entering a community – an innovative hub of talented professionals who are here to support your fitness and wellness journey. Between our two locations, there are over 70 employees that contribute to our multifaceted fitness family – and each of them have a story. In our Staff Spotlight, get to know the unique individuals that bring the sparkle to our gem of a gym.
1. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
I minored in art history, and have always loved art – drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, really anything except scrapbooking. For the last six years, I have set the intention to practice art every day. I usually paint at least two to three hours a day.
2. What is your go-to “healthy” snack or meal? What is your go-to “treat”?
Go-to snack will always be peanut butter. Go-to treat is wheat-free gummy bears. Clearly I have a sweet tooth!
3. What are your top 3 favorite exercises of the moment?
I have a bit of a wonky left hip – I am doing several PRI (Postural Restoration Institute) exercises. My current favorite is the T-stretch!
4. Describe your health and fitness philosophy in ONE WORD. Why that word?
Consistency – The word has served me, though some might call it boring – I get up at 4am on weekdays for cardio, strength train during my breaks at work, and I cook food that my grandmothers would recognize nightly.
5. How will clients feel after working with you?
I train a lot of folks who have some sort of chronic pain in their bodies. Most people have less pain after working out with me.
How to Perform the T-Stretch
This stretch sets your femur (thigh) bone into the hip socket. It can relieve tension in the hamstrings and outer hip and leg.
1. Starting Position
With the right foot facing forward, turn your left foot so that the toes are pointed toward the inside arch of the right foot – you will need to internally rotate your left leg to do so.
The feet should make a “T” shape (they don’t have to touch).
2. Active Position
Bend forward at your hips to touch your right foot. Focus on leaning back into your left hip.
You should feel a stretch in the left leg. You may even feel a pop as your hip creates room for your femur. Hold the pose for a few breaths and then repeat the stretch on the other foot.
Rachael Bercey specializes in neuromuscular therapy, deep tissue sports massage, and myofascial and trigger point therapy. She received her massage training in a nationally accredited 750 hour program at the New Mexico School of Natural Therapeutic in 2001. In 2003, Rachael earned her Neuromuscular Therapy certification with the founder of the International Academy of Neuromuscular Therapies, Judith Delaney.
Rachael’s massage clients range from professional, Olympic, University of Texas, amateur, and weekend warrior athletes. In order to understand the process of injury more clearly and how to educate the client about how to help themselves, Rachael earned her Personal Training certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine in 2007. She is a self-proclaimed education junkie who enjoys painting (you can find some of her prints within our Downtown neighbor, Joy), exercising, and spending time with family. Before becoming a massage therapist, Rachael was a middle school teacher for ten years and in the Peace Corps in Costa Rica.
