A: I’d always been sporty and enjoyed exercising a lot, but before I joined Edge EPT I was battling with myalgic encephalomyelitis, back problems and sciatica.
I was extremely fatigued and had gone from exercising six times a week to barely being able to walk some days. I’d tried numerous different physios, gyms, doctors and treatment programs, but nothing had helped.
I’d pretty much given up on trying to get better. My physio at that time was excellent and he suggested a man named Paul at a gym called Edge EPT who he thought could help me.
What were your initial goals when you first joined the Edge and have you achieved them?
A: When I joined, my goal was to find ways to manage the problems with my movement, joints and muscle pain. The pipe dream was to live a normal pain free life where I could exercise again.
Have I achieved them? I have surpassed anything I had hoped I could achieve. I am pain-free and have been for about three years now. I am fitter and stronger than I’ve ever been and back to working out, playing rugby and even running (which had always been a no-go).
Two days ago I ran 13 miles… no pain. A flippin’ miracle!
I can now do everything I couldn’t do before, apart from overhead squat … that still eludes me!
What have been the main motivating factors that kept you on track towards achieving your goals?
A: Along with gin, exercising is my main stress-relief and keeps me happy. Also I eat a lot of cheese, so I need to balance out the Brie.
Which programmes or classes do you enjoy the most and why?
A: Saturday con games is the stuff of legends, mostly for the banter rather than the sporting prowess. I love it all, but I’m particularly enjoying seeing the newer members at the conditioning sessions getting the gym bug and becoming more confident and fitter! Go team!
Why the Edge?
A: For the people who work there – their expertise, generosity and support. They’re the best at what they do. Also for the members who are fantastic and make even the grimmest of workouts a happy and fun place to be.
Quick fire questions:
Favourite film?
A: Remember the Titans!
Favourite food?
A: Any that’s going! Feed me please.
What’s your go-to cheat meal?
A: I’ve got a thing for lotus spread at the moment, straight out of the jar. No regrets!
Which trainer would you most like to strangle?
A: Kieran – he says he’ll spot me when I lift… he doesn’t, he pretends to and makes me lift it on my own instead. Every time.
Who’s the worst training partner and why?
A: Ruthie – because she makes me laugh so hard that I nearly drop weights on my head.
