While Merissa had always been in a “healthy” weight range, her fitness left much to be desired. She couldn't run, had no muscle tone, ate takeaway too often, and struggled with motivation.
Since joining Fernwood, Merissa realised that just because she wasn't overweight, it didn't mean she wasn’t harming her body through poor diet choices and inactivity. Now she bounds out of bed on weekends to go for her morning runs, and packs more into each day, including her new fitness blog, healthyhoneypot.com.
What was your ‘light bulb’ moment?
“One weekend away I visited Erskine falls in Victoria and found I could barely make my way back up the stairs from the base of the falls. It was actually quite scary; I couldn't even catch my breath. The next day all my muscles ached and I could barely move. I vowed I would get fit and healthy from that moment on.”
Why did you choose Fernwood over other gyms or programs?
“I had been to other gyms previously and found them either unfriendly or intimidating. Fernwood, on the other hand, was friendly, fun and welcoming.”
What was or has been the most challenging thing?
“The most challenging thing was finding the motivation and willpower to keep going! I’ve realised my body will improve if I go to the gym and train; that’s the easy part because your body does what you tell it.
The mental training has been trickier; I’ve had to learn to not expect results overnight, push through when I want to give up, and banish the negative self-talk.”
What aspects of your club do you enjoy most and why?
“Personal training and food coaching have taken my fitness to the next level. My personal trainer also encouraged me to join in the 12 Week ‘Get Foxy’ Challenge. It was the single best decision I’ve ever made for my health and fitness in my life. The structure of the challenge helped me establish a training routine which I have been able to continue with.”
What has been the biggest thing you have learnt thus far?
“The biggest thing I have learnt is to set goals. If you are working toward a goal your workouts take on a whole new purpose and meaning. I found setting a fitness goal was more motivating than a weight loss goal. For me it was a 10km fun run.”
What do you think was your key to success?
“Planning my weekly workouts and scheduling them in my diary. I also plan my meals for the week, and do a weekly shop to ensure there is always lots of fresh healthy food at hand.”
How has getting fit and being healthy changed your life?
“I feel great, I have more energy, and I feel like I can fit more into my day, even though I’m doing more. On the weekend, instead of sleeping late, laying around and going out drinking, I get up early to run, maintain my healthy eating (no cheat days), and get so much more done! I have also started a healthy lifestyle blog, healthyhoneypot.com where I write down all the things I’m learning along my health and fitness journey.”
What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining Fernwood?
“Taking the first step is the hardest, but once you’ve stepped foot in the gym for the first time, you’re past the hardest part! Ask the Fernwood girls for help if you don’t know how to use equipment or want advice on what exercises to do.
No one is looking at you, or can tell that you’re new; everyone is just busy doing their own workouts.”
*Fernwood client testimonial was achieved as part of an overall healthy diet and exercise plan. Regular exercise and proper diet are necessary to achieve and maintain weight loss. Consult your healthcare professional before beginning any diet or fitness program.