The fresh personal trainer qualifications are also proudly displayed in the pocket, so the versatile skills in the field of sports have been earned through diligent study.
Timo's education and career path, however, has not been the most traditional. How did an electrician with a long career at an energy plant end up working as an animal caretaker at Korkeasaari for over 20 years and then studying to become a sports professional?
Accident-prone Timo
– I was born at the Evo research station and was bottle-feeding moose calves before school age. That started a lifelong love for animals, which has taken me to places like the jungles of Africa to study snakes and to work at Korkeasaari.
According to Timo, his career choices have been largely guided by his own interests. He mentions being a jack-of-all-trades but also, unfortunately, accident-prone.
– By the time I was 55 and had injured just about every part of my body, the idea of retraining was born. I received support from Keva for my studies, which allowed me to focus fully on my studies.
– I had already dedicated my life to animals, so now it was time for people. I've always been interested in the field of sports, but I didn’t have time for exercise. I wanted to reinvigorate my own activities and help others feel better.
Tools for working life from studies
Timo began the vocational qualification in sports and coaching at the beginning of 2022 and graduated in May 2024, specializing in promoting adult physical activity. He mentions enjoying the studies and praises the education as a well-constructed whole.
– This was the best education I've ever been in! There were in-person days three times a month, and there could have been even more. The days were intense, but I got a lot out of them.
– Independent study was also interesting. I've been vegan for 7 years, so I did the nutrition assignment on myself. I gained a lot of learning and tools from the school, which have been beneficial in my current work as a personal trainer and sports advisor-entrepreneur.
Timo praises the teachers for being inspiring and the fellow students nice. He feels that group work and doing things together were the best parts of the study.
– When you want to visit the institution quite willingly even after studies, then the school has done something right, Timo says with a grin.
Clients from all age groups
Timo got to test what he learned during his studies in work internships. He credits it with giving him confidence in his activities.
Nowadays, he runs a nature club for children, instructs gym workouts for young people, helps working-age people find joy in exercise as a personal trainer, and engages retirees in park exercises. Timo also runs a snake retirement home and has many plans for the future.
– The best part of this job is seeing the change in a client when they find the joy of exercise. Customer feedback has been wonderful and encouraging.
– One client said there should be more Timos in the world. When you love what you do, it will surely take you far, he concludes with a smile.
Timo Paasikunnas
Vocational qualification in sports and coaching,
field of sports, sports advisor
Additionally, personal trainer studies
Pajulahti Sports Institute