Member Spotlight
Whether it's her consistency in class or the positive attitude she brings into the gym, Laryssa truly represents what URSUS is all about.
Read on to learn more about her journey, her favourite workouts, and what keeps her coming back.
I have been a member of URSUS Gym for over 7 years, and it has truly changed my life. I always found it to be a supportive community with great programming — a place I was proud to recommend to others. No matter if I attended the 6am or 5:30pm class, I quickly got to know fellow members and always felt team spirited support. When I moved, finding a place close to URSUS was a top priority. It has been a part of my daily routine since moving to Hong Kong.
In June 2022, my life took a turn when I was hit by a car while crossing the road, just as I was getting back into a routine, feeling strong and tracking my progress. I was excited for a summer of travel, but everything changed in that moment. I underwent surgery on my broken humerus bone and had several fractures in my neck, rib and scapula. Fortunately, I regained mobility after the accident, but I was away from URSUS for over six months.
Once I got the green light from my doctors and physiotherapist to return, I knew I was in safe hands. The coaches at URSUS made every class accessible, providing modifications and paying close attention to my needs. I was a beginner again, but the environment was never intimidating or nerve-racking, as there is space for all levels. Their support, along with that of the community, made all the difference.
I still remember my first back squat post-accident at the end of March 2023 at just 10kg. It was tough even placing the lightest bar onto my back, but I knew I was safe. In September 2023 I was comfortably squatting 28kg but I still had a long recovery ahead. Now, nearly two years later, I am mostly pain-free and stronger than I was before my accident and comfortably squatting 70 kg for multiple reps.
“There isn’t a day that goes by when I don’t feel proud of the trust I placed in the coaches at URSUS.”
Now, my weeks at URSUS look like this:
Monday: Leg day—can never skip this one.
Tuesday: Engine club for a heart-pumping workout.
Thursday: A teachers' class with other teachers in Hong Kong—always good fun, and by Thursday, all of us teachers are ready to celebrate the upcoming weekend!
Saturday: A morning class with my husband, the perfect way to kick off our weekend.
What makes URSUS special is the community that lifts each other up. Members of all fitness levels come together, share their journeys, and celebrate progress. The encouraging environment keeps me motivated and excited. I am grateful for URSUS as my place for consistency. Whether you’re experienced or just starting, URSUS is welcoming and inspiring. It has become a highlight of my day, and I encourage anyone looking for a supportive environment to join our amazing community!
