"I joined FITISM April 2013 when I returned back to England from time in Australia, too many carbs and too much partying had taken its toll and it's only when I look back at pictures now I realise that things had got out of hand. At the time though it just creeps up and you don't notice it.

I started training with Ali twice a week in Rowsley pre the FITISM gym, he was brilliant (those who know Ali, will understand you don't want to tell him this as his head will only get bigger), however not once did he make me feel unfit or overweight. Through the weekly PTs and monthly measurements the weight started to fall. I did the elimination diet to the letter and saw some fantastic results.

In October 2013 the FITISM gym opened and I was introduced to a community of people, real people, who were going through the same challenges as myself. Since then I have continued to push myself, yes I have had times when I have plateaued - however with tweaks here and there I have continued to lose weight and gain strength. I have made some fantastic friendships at FITISM, getting involved in programmes such as REBORN, the GAMES and KICK has introduced me to so many new people and new ways to tackle both nutrition and training.

I regularly take parts in HIT as well as PTs and buddy sessions for strength training. Both my cardio and strength have improved which I notice not only in the gym but in day to day activities. 

I feel I have come a long way since the early days of holding Ali's hand to do a step up, to now challenging weekly workout top spots and breaking personal bests. But it is a journey and there is so much more to achieve...

To anyone wondering if FITISM is for them - give it a try. It has changed my life and is a big part of it and I couldn't recommend it more!"