Maria overcomes challenges to inspire others with strength and determination

"I have been overweight for as long as I can remember. I worked for the NHS delivering care to patients throughout lockdown, grabbing food wherever possible usually snack food not very healthy. I have suffered with my back for a number of years and my weight was only making matters worse, causing chronic pain. I was feeling down, depressed and at my heaviest I decided to try and loose as much weight as possible.

I joined a Slimming World class and took out a membership at Western. I started going into the gym, I was so nervous and thought I would be judged for my weight. Everyone in the gym was so kind and I fitted in straight away. I started to look at the classes and booked Aqua. I made a lot of friends and everyone was so welcoming after gaining enough courage I booked a body conditioning class. Isaac was the instructor and talked me through what we would be doing and assisted me with different exercises to suit me, the weight started to come off. I then started Legs, Bums and Tums with Julie. Julie was so supportive and offered advice when needed withing a year I had lost 7 stone. I now go to the gym 5 times a week, 2 hours a day and have dropped 6 dress sizes. Everyone at Western is so helpful and so friendly, the team are so supportive and I would like to thank Isaac for all his advice in helping me reach my goal and also Julie who kept me going and supported me in every way. I recommend joining Western. If I can do it so can you.

Come along and join us in some amazing classes with truly amazing instructors and unbelievable staff who have become great friends. You all made it a success for me and I am truly thankful for all your help and support."