For Joey Generoux, exercise is far more than routine physical maintenance—it is a cornerstone of recovery and emotional balance.
Generoux, a 45-year-old Indigenous motivational speaker and Level 1 CrossFit coach, turned to fitness during one of the most challenging periods of his life.
After struggling with insecurity, health challenges, and the loss of his grandfather, he began walking and jogging as a way to process his grief.
“I got into fitness to cope with grief,” Generoux shared in a conversation with MBC News. “I was sober and clean, but I was still not living a healthy lifestyle… I went through a lot of emotion, a lot of hurt, and a lot of grief, and I found that this was my opportunity to start getting myself off my butt.”
What started as small steps eventually grew into a passion for CrossFit and coaching. Today, Generoux coaches in La Ronge and runs fitness sessions in Montreal Lake, offering local residents an accessible outlet for physical and mental wellness.
Despite initial doubts about launching the program, Generoux stayed consistent. He stresses that physical growth begins outside of one’s comfort zone.
“The biggest thing is a lot of people stay comfortable, and you’ve got to be uncomfortable to start growing,” Generoux said. “Your results aren’t going to happen overnight… but one thing that you get out of it is your mental part of it starts growing. You start feeling better about yourself.”
Beyond personal health, Generoux views physical activity as a powerful force for unity and intergenerational healing in northern communities.
“When a woman brings her kids to the program, it melts my heart because that’s what it’s about,” Generoux said. “You’re not only inspiring her, you’re inspiring her kids… passing it on to the next generation.”
For anyone considering starting their own fitness path, Generoux reminds them that consistency and perseverance are key—and that the emotional rewards are well worth the effort.