Caroline's Story...Part 1

Forgive me for blowing my own trumpet but today I have decided to post an AMAZING testimonial I received yesterday from my client Caroline who I have done some online Zoom sessions with. I asked for a few lines describing her (hopefully) positive experience working with me so far and got this. To say I am pleased is a massive understatement - I am over the moon.

I'm not just posting this in order to big myself up (but hey, why not?! it's good to be your own cheerleader from time to time!) but also in the hope that Caroline's story with resonate with some of you reading this. As she says, fear is a powerful thing but the increased strength (both physical and mental), pride and feeling of accomplishment in overcoming that fear is even more powerful...

"I have always had a hate/hate relationship with exercise. I have suffered from chronic pain for most of my adult life and fear more pain from exercise. But I knew something had to change, because I’m 45 and need to have a better, kinder relationship with my body. Also, I knew in my head that exercise was going to reduce my pain levels, not increase them. But fear is a powerful thing. So I reached out to Gemma.

I know Gemma through social circles and trusted that she would be supportive, sympathetic, professional and positive. I was SO right.

From initial consultation to getting started:

Gemma offered two one hour consultations and an hour long demonstration and technique session if I decided I wanted her to write me a programme (which I did). They were so beneficial for me and such great value for money.

The first hour Gemma asked me great questions about my physical history. It was such an important conversation for me. No professional had taken a holistic view of my physical issues before. Gemma obviously has a great background knowledge, personal experience of the challenges of injury and pain. I felt heard, I felt validated and Gemma gave me hope that she could help me by creating a programme that would help me become stronger and reduce my pain.

The second hour, we were down to business. Talking about what, how and when I could exercise, using the space and equipment I already have. We talked about what I would enjoy (why has no one ever asked me that before?!). Gemma also pointed out that it would take work and commitment. She was honest, straight forward, positive - just what I needed.

I now have a 30–40 minute programme, created for my body and my confidence levels. Gemma has demonstrated all of the exercises to me online, showing me how I should do them. Her instruction was clear and specific, so I know how to do each movement correctly. It’s now up to me, but I have accountability in Whatsapp messages that Gemma sends me regularly to check in with how I’m doing.

Beginning:

For me, this is the hard bit. Getting into a habit. However, I’m not afraid to contact Gemma and let her know if I’m struggling. I don’t imagine she’ll let me off the hook, but I do believe that she completely understands the realities of life and the struggles to get going. I’m determined and I have Gemma’s support. I’ll let you know how I go.

What Gemma has given me:

An ear to hear my body story. Inspiration because she has been through this same journey and succeeded in changing her relationship with her body (and frankly, I want my bum to look more like hers too ;-). Confidence and honesty and support. Technical support on how my body works (muscle names and all that clever stuff) and how each exercise should be done properly.

Obviously, I’d rather I was working with Gemma face to face, but currently that isn’t possible, and the Zoom and Whatsapp consultations, guidance and support has really worked for me and is allowing me to get going on reducing my pain and becoming stronger and more confident in my body."

Caroline - you are amazing and I am so proud to be helping you on your health and fitness journey. I'm looking forward to getting started on Part 2 soon! LET'S SO THIS GIRL!!! #getfitbestrongfeelgood