“In May 2023, I made one of the best decisions of my life: I committed to becoming the strongest version of myself, both mentally and physically. I reset my goals, carved out more time in my busy life to train, and went for it 110%, with the incredible support of Carl [Personal Trainer and Fitness Coach] at Life Leisure Hazel Grove. The progress I’ve made since then is something I’m incredibly proud of. But the most valuable lesson I’ve learned isn’t just about me – it’s about the power of exercise to inspire others.
As a fitness instructor, I used to think my members only saw me as the person leading their classes. But during my own training, I realised that they notice everything. They’ve seen me struggle to lift weights for the first time, train solo in the gym, collapse out of planks when my arms couldn’t hold me any longer, and restart my running journey, red-faced on the treadmill. They’ve even witnessed the more comical moments—like the time I accidentally whacked myself in the face with a wallball!
But seeing these struggles and progress opened the door for them to connect with me in a different way. It’s no longer just about dancing through Zumba or joining me for a workout. Now, they’re curious about my journey. They ask how I’ve managed to get stronger, how I use different equipment, how I adjusted my diet, or how I found the courage to restart running. It’s been a chance for them to reflect and ask themselves: “Could I do this too?”
Every time someone asks me these questions, I’m reminded of how powerful it is to share our fitness journeys. It’s inspired me to keep pushing myself, and in turn, I’ve been able to help others get started on their own path.
Some of the amazing “golden girls” from my Zumba class now stay afterward to virtually walk around Italian villages and other scenic routes on the iFIT treadmills, gradually increasing their workout time each week. One woman has taken up running again and regularly updates me on her couch to 5k progress—she recently celebrated completing her first Park Run! And then there are the ladies who, after chatting with me, took the plunge and signed up to the Strongher weightlifting course—women who had never imagined themselves lifting weights, but who are now excited to explore what strength training can do for them.
The beauty of training in the same place where I teach classes is that I get to witness my members’ growth firsthand. I’ve watched them grow in confidence, from nervous beginners to people who proudly report their progress to me: bicep curls, seated bike sessions, you name it.
This sense of connection is why I love being part of Life Leisure—it truly feels like family. Exercise brings people together, helping us support and inspire each other along the way. That’s why I’m so passionate about encouraging more women to try something new, especially strength training. If I can do it, so can you.” Laura, Group Exercise Instructor.
Our next Strongher women’s weightlifting course starts on Monday 4th November, and it’s your chance to join a community of women who are ready to challenge themselves, build confidence, and discover just how strong they can be. If you’ve ever felt intimidated by the idea of lifting weights or have wondered if strength training is for you, this is the perfect opportunity to just try it.
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