Jump Ahead of the Competition
By Jon-Erik Kawamoto and Thomas King, Canadian Running magazine, May/June 2026
By Jon-Erik Kawamoto and Thomas King, Canadian Running magazine, May/June 2026
By Jon-Erik Kawamoto and Thomas King, Canadian Running magazine, Trail Special, Spring/Summer 2026
By Jon-Erik Kawamoto, Canadian Running magazine, Mar/April 2026
Jon-Erik Kawamoto quoted as an expert source, SlowTwitch.com
By Jon-Erik Kawamoto, Canadian Running magazine, Jan/Feb 2026
By Jon-Erik Kawamoto, Canadian Running magazine, Nov/Dec 2025
Jon & Thomas quoted as an expert source, Saltwire.com
By Jon-Erik Kawamoto & Jake Hatcher, Canadian Running magazine, Sept/Oct 2025
By Jon-Erik Kawamoto, Canadian Running magazine, July/Aug 2025
By Jon-Erik Kawamoto, Canadian Running magazine, May/June 2025
By Jon-Erik Kawamoto, Canadian Running magazine, Spring/Summer 2025
By Jon-Erik Kawamoto, Canadian Running magazine, March/April 2025
I originally joined JKC because I was anxious about passing out and embarrassing myself since I hadn’t weight trained in a while and I’d hoped to find somewhere sympathetic. My husband @terry_hussey had been training at JKC and his success there made me miss the achievement you feel from a good workout. I went to meet Jon and immediately knew it was going to be a safe space for me. I was never judged for the fears I had and where I was starting from. Jon and Thomas made sure to check on me often, and found a way to challenge me but make me feel secure at the same time, and Terry and I were able to book sessions together, so working out became a shared win for us!
JKC is different from other gyms because of the personal growth you have outside JKC (the sessions inside JKC creates a great positive feedback loop!). You gain self confidence, learn how to show up for yourself, meet a community of newfound friends, and get the support of your trainers who are behind you 100%. I’ve left a scattered workout so proud of myself I’ve honestly shed a tear in the car on the drive home. JKC is the mental health relief valve I need to stay positive, and keep my anxiety and health related fears at bay.
I have never previously seen the passion and level of care that Jon and Thomas bring to everyone who works out at JKC. Their knowledge, insight and skills are extraordinary, and they work with everyone individually to ensure the best possible results. The attention to detail and to every person’s specific requirements and goals, and the incredible, constant encouragement they provide, is, in my opinion, what truly distinguishes JKC from any other program in which I’ve participated. I am extremely pleased with the progress I’ve achieved thus far, and it’s largely attributable to Jon and Thomas and the approach they take to training and working with people.
I’m 29 and I just had my 3rd Liftiversary 🥳 at JKC. I chose to train here because of the great word on the street and the fact that at lululemon, we’re encouraged to support our local community. My day-to-day routine is very busy, and I love showing up and having to think very little about my workout. The vibes are always good, my music choice is usually accommodated, and the bys are incredibly supportive and compassionate, helping me reach my goals (even when I had a broken hand). I also get to be my weird self, and am embraced fully.
Before starting at JK Conditioning I had attempted strength training multiple times through various local gyms and at home. Each time I would end up frustrated and injured. A little over two years ago, I contacted Jon and shared my goal with him to complete my first Ironman and remain injury free in the process. Jon, Thomas and Angie have worked with me weekly and I feel stronger but most importantly I have remained injury free for 2 years, 2 months and 6 hours….. but who’s counting. HaHa. The atmosphere at JKC is welcoming for any age and ability. While Jon, Angie and Thomas are serious about GAINZ, I’ve never once found myself not laughing while working out. Thanks for helping me to continue in this crazy sport where strength training is often neglected but is the key to remaining injury free!!
I heard somewhere that achieving your health goals is determined largely by what you do in the kitchen. I am grateful to have found Julia who brought direction and accountability to this most important piece for me. Having Julia in my corner has brought me confidence and certainty that I am on my way to achieving my goals. I highly recommend her if you are serious about making a change and feeling better about your health.