Get to know the passionate team and supportive environment that makes Loaded Movement Academy special.
The Mission:
to equip people with the skills,
confidence, and ability to take control of their health and fitness for life.
Loaded Movement Academy started as an idea—but it didn’t take shape overnight.
Adam had already begun building LMA when he made a decision: he didn’t want to do this alone. He saw something in Karleena, his client at the time—her drive, her passion for strength, and her ability to see fitness as more than just aesthetics. So, with little context and no guarantees, he asked her to join him on the journey.
The early days? It was just the two of them at the Island Optimal gym, navigating uncertainty while staying focused on their vision. Neither had a formal business background. They learned everything on the fly—how to build a brand, define their message, and attract the right people.
Then COVID hit. The gym shut down, and LMA operated mostly online. It was a tough time, but something special was happening beneath the surface. Their clients weren’t just training—they were connecting, showing up for each other, and forming relationships.
It all came into focus during a small photoshoot. With a fresh batch of branded apparel and a handful of dedicated members, they captured something bigger than fitness: a community. That was the moment they saw what LMA was becoming.
But the real test came less than a year later. With another gym shutdown and an eviction notice, they had 30 days to find a new home. Two days before gyms reopened, they signed the lease for what is now LMA’s space. That’s when things got real.
Owning their own gym meant freedom—to build, to grow, and to create something far beyond a training space. Now, LMA isn’t just a gym. It’s a community. A place where people don’t just lift—they connect, support each other’s goals, and push each other to be stronger in every way.
And they’re just getting started.
The mission? To equip people with the skills, confidence, and ability to take control of their health and fitness for life. The vision? A space big enough for the entire LMA family—where every client, online or in-person, can train together under one roof.
Expertise. Dedication. Results.
My name is Karleena Wiebe – but you can call me Kar. ☺️ In 2019, I became a personal trainer as a “pit stop” on my way to medical school. I couldn’t have known then that just a few years later, I’d take the leap to start LMA. At first, it was just two of us, but I had a big vision: to create a space where people could build stronger, more resilient lives—not just in the gym but in everything they do.
My fitness journey started much earlier. I spent 11 years as a competitive gymnast and 13 coaching gymnastics. After a career-ending back injury, I discovered functional strength training as a way to rebuild my body. At first, I focused on trying to shrink myself—not look too big or bulky—but somewhere along the way, I fell in love with my muscles. I stopped obsessing over my weight and size and started seeing the gym as a place to build strength and confidence, not as punishment or a way to “earn my food”.
This is my wish for every woman starting their health and fitness journey: to learn that fitness is about so much more than shrinking yourself. It’s about building resilience from the inside out and feeling strong and capable in every area of life.
Starting LMA has been the most challenging and rewarding journey of my life. Over the last 5 years, I’ve learned how to run a brick-and-mortar business, lead a growing team, and create a community that I’m incredibly proud of.
Today, LMA is a team of 13 amazing people, and we’re focused on helping our clients feel supported in their unique goals—whether that’s getting stronger, moving pain-free, or building confidence that carries into everyday life.
When I’m not in the gym, you can usually find me at home with my best friend (my husband 🖤), hiking or camping, hanging out with my two dogs, or finding creative ways to enjoy cardio – dancing, walking, or taking classes with friends!
As a key force behind Loaded Movement Academy, Adam Mackay goes beyond coaching. He meets clients where they are, defines where they want to go, pinpoints what’s holding them back, and builds the roadmap to get them there.
At LMA, Adam blends big-picture strategy with practical, actionable steps, ensuring each client has a clear, sustainable plan tailored to their unique needs. His approach eliminates guesswork by providing the structure, education, and accountability necessary to bridge the gap between intention and execution.
More than just a fitness professional, Adam is a problem solver and strategist. He helps clients navigate obstacles, build momentum, and create lasting change. His ability to connect, simplify the process, and make fitness and nutrition progress feel achievable is what sets him apart.
Whether you’re looking to refine your training, optimize your lifestyle, or completely transform your approach, Adam is the one who helps make it happen.
My name is Karleena Wiebe – but you can call me Kar. ☺️ In 2019, I became a personal trainer as a “pit stop” on my way to medical school. I couldn’t have known then that just a few years later, I’d take the leap to start LMA. At first, it was just two of us, but I had a big vision: to create a space where people could build stronger, more resilient lives—not just in the gym but in everything they do.
My fitness journey started much earlier. I spent 11 years as a competitive gymnast and 13 coaching gymnastics. After a career-ending back injury, I discovered functional strength training as a way to rebuild my body. At first, I focused on trying to shrink myself—not look too big or bulky—but somewhere along the way, I fell in love with my muscles. I stopped obsessing over my weight and size and started seeing the gym as a place to build strength and confidence, not as punishment or a way to “earn my food”.
This is my wish for every woman starting their health and fitness journey: to learn that fitness is about so much more than shrinking yourself. It’s about building resilience from the inside out and feeling strong and capable in every area of life.
Starting LMA has been the most challenging and rewarding journey of my life. Over the last 5 years, I’ve learned how to run a brick-and-mortar business, lead a growing team, and create a community that I’m incredibly proud of.
Today, LMA is a team of 13 amazing people, and we’re focused on helping our clients feel supported in their unique goals—whether that’s getting stronger, moving pain-free, or building confidence that carries into everyday life.
When I’m not in the gym, you can usually find me at home with my best friend (my husband 🖤), hiking or camping, hanging out with my two dogs, or finding creative ways to enjoy cardio – dancing, walking, or taking classes with friends!
As a key force behind Loaded Movement Academy, Adam Mackay goes beyond coaching. He meets clients where they are, defines where they want to go, pinpoints what’s holding them back, and builds the roadmap to get them there.
At LMA, Adam blends big-picture strategy with practical, actionable steps, ensuring each client has a clear, sustainable plan tailored to their unique needs. His approach eliminates guesswork by providing the structure, education, and accountability necessary to bridge the gap between intention and execution.
More than just a fitness professional, Adam is a problem solver and strategist. He helps clients navigate obstacles, build momentum, and create lasting change. His ability to connect, simplify the process, and make fitness and nutrition progress feel achievable is what sets him apart.
Whether you’re looking to refine your training, optimize your lifestyle, or completely transform your approach, Adam is the one who helps make it happen.
My name is Karleena Wiebe – but you can call me Kar. ☺️ In 2019, I became a personal trainer as a “pit stop” on my way to medical school. I couldn’t have known then that just a few years later, I’d take the leap to start LMA. At first, it was just two of us, but I had a big vision: to create a space where people could build stronger, more resilient lives—not just in the gym but in everything they do.
My fitness journey started much earlier. I spent 11 years as a competitive gymnast and 13 coaching gymnastics. After a career-ending back injury, I discovered functional strength training as a way to rebuild my body. At first, I focused on trying to shrink myself—not look too big or bulky—but somewhere along the way, I fell in love with my muscles. I stopped obsessing over my weight and size and started seeing the gym as a place to build strength and confidence, not as punishment or a way to “earn my food”.
This is my wish for every woman starting their health and fitness journey: to learn that fitness is about so much more than shrinking yourself. It’s about building resilience from the inside out and feeling strong and capable in every area of life.
Starting LMA has been the most challenging and rewarding journey of my life. Over the last 5 years, I’ve learned how to run a brick-and-mortar business, lead a growing team, and create a community that I’m incredibly proud of.
Today, LMA is a team of 13 amazing people, and we’re focused on helping our clients feel supported in their unique goals—whether that’s getting stronger, moving pain-free, or building confidence that carries into everyday life.
When I’m not in the gym, you can usually find me at home with my best friend (my husband 🖤), hiking or camping, hanging out with my two dogs, or finding creative ways to enjoy cardio – dancing, walking, or taking classes with friends!
As a key force behind Loaded Movement Academy, Adam Mackay goes beyond coaching. He meets clients where they are, defines where they want to go, pinpoints what’s holding them back, and builds the roadmap to get them there.
At LMA, Adam blends big-picture strategy with practical, actionable steps, ensuring each client has a clear, sustainable plan tailored to their unique needs. His approach eliminates guesswork by providing the structure, education, and accountability necessary to bridge the gap between intention and execution.
More than just a fitness professional, Adam is a problem solver and strategist. He helps clients navigate obstacles, build momentum, and create lasting change. His ability to connect, simplify the process, and make fitness and nutrition progress feel achievable is what sets him apart.
Whether you’re looking to refine your training, optimize your lifestyle, or completely transform your approach, Adam is the one who helps make it happen.
Take full ownership of your health and fitness. Show up with commitment, follow through on your goals, and give your best, not for anyone else, but because you know you’re capable of more.
We’re stronger together. At LMA, you’re not just another face in the gym, you’re part of a team that supports, encourages, and celebrates each other every step of the way.
Be open. Be curious. Whether you’re brand new or years into your training, we believe progress comes from a willingness to learn, adapt, and challenge yourself, inside and outside the gym.
Do the right thing even when it’s hard. Respect your body, respect others, and show up with honesty and humility. Our community is built on trust, and it starts with how we treat ourselves and the people around us.
1-on-1 In-Person Training at Loaded Movement Academy
Personal training is our Level One approach, the ideal starting point for anyone new to fitness, returning after time away, or navigating injury, pregnancy, or other challenges. This is the perfect fit if you’re building confidence, developing foundational skills, or want a safer, more guided experience.
With one-on-one support, we’ll focus on helping you get stronger, move better, and feel more comfortable in the gym. Every session is tailored to your needs to keep you progressing safely, effectively, and at your own pace, all in a supportive and fun environment.
Semi-Private Training – Community-based approach to health and fitness
Semi-private training is our Level Two approach. This is not your typical group fitness class with one instructor and a room full of people doing the same thing. Instead, it’s a highly personalized, structured training experience that blends the best of one-on-one coaching with the energy and support of a small team environment.
It’s perfect for busy adults who want to prioritize their health and fitness in the fastest, most effective, efficient, and enjoyable way. With a
strong sense of community, expert guidance, and individualized programming, this is the ideal setting to stay consistent, push your limits, and have fun doing it.
1-on-1 Remote Coaching – Whenever, Wherever!
Remote coaching is our Level Three approach. It’s designed for those who already have some experience in the gym but feel stuck, stalled, or disconnected from the process. Maybe progress has slowed, motivation has dropped, or old injuries are starting to creep in. You might even feel like you’re doing all the right things but not seeing the results you want.
This service brings structure, high-level accountability, and expert guidance directly to you. It’s a premium coaching experience that helps you break through plateaus, rediscover your motivation, and fall in love with training again while continuing to level up in a way that works for your life.
1-on-1 Nutrition Guidance
Our approach to nutrition coaching is simple and sustainable. We are not here to push extreme diets or one-size-fits-all plans. No keto mandates, no vegan-only rules, just a personalized and balanced approach that works for real people.
There are many right ways to eat well. What matters most is that your nutrition supports your goals, provides enough fuel, and fits into your life long term. We focus on meeting you where you are, building a plan that makes sense for your life, and providing the structure and accountability you need to stay consistent. The goal is to develop a reliable and sustainable approach to nutrition that not only gets results but lasts a lifetime.
Whether you’re ready to transform your life or simply seeking guidance, we’re here to help you take the next step towards your goals.
2220 Bowen Rd Unit 8D, Nanaimo, BC V9S 1H9, Canada
Have questions? Let us know and one of our team members will be happy to get back to you!
