What was your health and fitness like before joining Fernwood, and what is it like now?
I really didn’t care for my health and just ate the worst foods. I had zero energy and motivation because my self-esteem was so low. My fitness didn’t exist before joining Fernwood; I would use every excuse in the book not to exercise.
Now fitness and health has become the best part of my life – I look forward to exercising and worry about what I am actually putting in my mouth! My energy is the opposite from where it was two years ago; I’m always happy to go out for a walk or hit a gym session.
What was your ‘light bulb’ moment - the decision that drove you to join Fernwood?
I was bullied throughout high school because of my weight. Before I started university I wanted a fresh start and the opportunity to leave behind the low self-esteem person that I was. The day I joined was the hardest; it was hard for me to face the truth. But from that moment on, I never regretted the decision as the hard work payed off.
Why did you choose Fernwood over other gyms or programs?
Fernwood was recommended by friends. As soon as I walked in, I felt comfortable and free to start my weight loss journey with the services that the club provided. I researched methods to lose weight and did it on my own with the help of Fernwood.
What has been the most challenging thing?
The most challenging thing is actually motivating myself to attend the gym! I would come up with every excuse in my head to avoid going to the gym. But I told myself to suck it up and go for it. Pushing myself to try new equipment has been difficult – especially weights, but they have become my best friends in the gym.
What aspects of your club do you enjoy most?
I love the classes: Fat Burner and Amazing Abs are my favourite – you feel your whole body working! The group fitness instructors are the best motivators.
What has been the biggest thing you have learnt thus far?
That weight loss is only 20% exercise and what you put into your mouth makes up a massive 80%. If you don’t put in the work, you will not get results or satisfaction.
What do you think was your key to success?
Using my mind as a tool to motivate me each day was the key to my success. Focusing on my goal weight and seeing the weight falling off was also a huge part of my success.
How has losing weight, getting fit and being healthy changed your life?
Losing weight has changed my life and how I feel about myself. My confidence and self-esteem was zero when I first started. But now I’m finally confident enough to dress for my age and not question whether I look fat.
I was never a very social person and tended to stay at home, but after my confidence built up I started seeing someone who I now call my boyfriend today.
Food is now a fun new hobby and I enjoy baking healthy treats that taste good without being bad for me. My health has improved and my energy levels are better than ever. Being healthy has made me a happy and bubbly person who is finally not afraid to be who I am!
What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining Fernwood?
If you want to see results and see the weight falling off, Fernwood provides the best services to support you through your journey. Have fun doing classes with your friends. It’s a great new way to start your life again. You will not be sorry!
*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.