Short interview with Isaac Lidsky on health and fitness

Isaac Lidsky started at My Fitness Studio in September 2009 where he trains with his personal trainer Robert Bray three times a week.  Isaac Lidsky is afflicted by retinitis pigmentosa, an eye disease that has left him blind, and in 2005 he founded Hope For Vision (Hopeforvision.org) a nonprofit organization that funds the development of treatments and cures for blinding disease. A graduate of Harvard Law School, in 2008 he became the first blind law clerk to serve the United States Supreme Court. More about Isaac Lidsky and his recent move to the UK can be found over at this Wikipedia page about him.

How important is health and fitness to you?

It is extremely important. Of course, a major part of it is keeping physically fit. But working out also helps me to maintain my emotional and mental health. It gives me energy, clears my mind and generally keeps me leveled. I am more productive, sleep better, and am generally happier when I’m working out regularly. I notice the difference right away when I miss a session or two,energy levels drop, moodiness encroaches and I have a harder time sleeping.

Do you feel restricted in any way due to being blind in reaching your fitness goals?

Yes, I am somewhat restricted. Before I lost my vision, I very much enjoyed running outside and bicycling. I can do the former now if someone runs with me as a guide, and tandem bicycles make the latter activity technically possible–in fact, I’m sure there are blind folks who ride their own bikes with a guide. But for practical reasons, I exclusively stick to the gym these days. I miss the freedom and thrill of a great run or ride. And when I’m in the gym, I rely on my trainer for a lot of help locating and using equipment.  So, I am limited in terms of the types of exercises in which I engage and limited to the extent that I rely on a trainer for a lot of help. But these are relatively minor limitations. For the most part, I’m able to get a vigorous workout in three times a week, which is a great thing.

What has your experience of personal training been like?

It has been excellent. The facilities at My Fitness Studio  are fantastic, and they have more than I need or use. Their model is perfect for me: client and trainer always work out one-on-one, usually having the whole gym to themselves–never more than two clients and trainers at a time.  I thus have all of the help I need, and more importantly, the advice, expertise and encouragement of a top trainer.  I work out with Robert Bray, who is exceptional. He is very sensitive to my blindness, and has figured out how to take my disability out of the equation. He has introduced me to many new exercises, and perfectly balances strength training with aerobic fitness. As a result, with three visits to the gym each week, my fitness needs are completely met. This is important, given the practical realities of my blindness. It is also very convenient and efficient.  When I travel and have to use other gyms, without Rob’s help, I am reminded of how great my experience is at My Fitness Studio !

It’s also important to relax! (Having a cigar with my trainer)

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Isaac Lidsky’s testimonial