Portage is becoming is a healthy and active town. There are the new walking trails sponsored by the American Heart Association, the many races that take place there, year-round sports of all types, and the Portage YMCA. What makes the Portage YMCA so great is not only the awesome amount of programs and events, but the people that make them happen. One person in particular, Jeremy Gorden, helps to make a lot of great things happen inside as well as outside the Portage YMCA.
Gorden was born in Merrillville, Indiana and raised in Portage. He attended Nativity of Our Savior Catholic School through the eighth grade and then Portage High Cchool. During high school Gorden was active in soccer all four years and then track during his junior and senior years. He also dabbled in the arts as he played Louis in The King and I.
When it was time for college, Gorden started his academic career at PNC, and then transferred to IUN. He finished up college at USI with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a minor in Fitness. He almost didn’t graduate because during his final semester of school he tore his ACL and had to have four surgeries in 23 days. This meant many important classes missed. But with a little elbow grease, Gorden made it through that last semester and made it to graduation.
Those who know Gorden now may be surprised to know that being fit and active was not always his thing.
“I didn’t find fitness until college,” Gorden admitted.
He has obviously changed his tune since Gorden is now the Assistant Wellness Coordinator for the Portage YMCA. Before procuring this position, Gorden worked in Chicago and as a substitute teacher at Portage High School. In April of 2012 he came to work for the YMCA and has been there ever since.
“I like what I do. My job is to make sure the fitness department runs smoothly. We have very experienced fitness instructors and they all know what they’re doing,” Gorden said. “I run a teen fitness program that teaches 12 to14-year-olds how to use equipment safely, I make sure the cardio equipment is working and answer questions that members or anyone may have –I’m kind of a guide for members and those who need help with health and wellness issues.”
In addition to the education that Gorden gained in college, he is also a Certified Personal Trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine. And just so you know, readers, he’s accepting new clients. Summer’s right around the corner so it wouldn’t be a bad idea to get into contact with him if those swim trunks aren’t fitting like they used to.
“I really like the persona training aspect,” Gordon said. “When I’m at the gym time flies by. I never seem to have enough time. When I’m with a client we’re sweating and having fun and the next thing you know it’s time for my next client. I’m excited to see where we go in the coming months at the Y with so many changes that are happening here.”
Gorden spends most of his free time working out, playing all types of sports, with his family or at the beach. He is one of five brothers and they are all very close. He also makes it a point to trek over to Chicago every weekend to see his girlfriend. Very sweet and very smart.
Here’s Gorden’s closing statement on his idea of what it takes to be a success in life.
“My idea of success is different than the norm,” Gorden said. “Be happy more than anything. Don’t dread waking up and find someone or something that makes you happy. It took me a while to find out what I wanted to do but for the most part I’ve got it right.”
Sometimes the simplest advice is the best. Thanks, Jeremy Gorden for actively being a Portage Life in the Spotlight.