Hello everyone!
Welcome to another edition of our Member of the Month series, where we feature some of the amazing people who are part of our Loyobo FIT family. We think it is important to share their stories to help inspire others and to celebrate their amazing accomplishments!
This month, our member is Anita Downes, who is one of our VIP members. Anita joined us a few months ago and got herself off to a running start! One of the first challenges she did with us was Loyobo FIT BINGO, and it was so exciting to watch. We quickly got to know her, to see her determination and her willingness to put herself outside of her comfort zone.
Anita is a joy to have in class and at the studio. She is so supportive and encouraging of other members, and we are so grateful to be a part of her journey as she works hard to fulfill her dreams! Her warm, kind energy is an inspiration to all of us.
This month, Anita, we celebrate YOU! We cannot wait to see what comes next in your journey and where your dreams will take you. Thank you for being a part of our family and for sharing your story with us!
How long have you been coming to Loyobo FIT and what initially inspired you to try a class?
I joined back in April when a friend had a month pass and wanted a gym buddy. I was reluctant at first because I was already a member of a gym which I rarely attended. Have to say I was hooked from the first class.
Anita & Ashley, one of our Energy Exchangers.
What are your top 3 health and fitness goals?
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To become the best possible version of me
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To have more endurance and stamina
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To maintain an 80/20 lifestyle (no point denying yourself everything!)
What is one of the challenges or fear that you have faced in your health/fitness journey? What have you found most helpful in working to overcome it?
I joined just as Loyobo Bingo 2019 was launched. Some of those squares really pushed me outside of my comfort zone – especially posting photos of myself. Having said that, I have always felt supported and encouraged by everyone at Loyobo. The bingo also made me try classes I would not necessarily have chosen and more importantly, I had the confidence to try.
How has your life changed since becoming a member of Loyobo FIT?
I actually miss attending classes! Never thought I would say that. It’s not just the exercise but the people. I feel more confident within my body and realize I’m so much more than a number on a scale. It’s a slow process but such a great feeling knowing you are getting fitter and stronger.
What is your favourite memory or achievement of your time at Loyobo FIT?
Actually, being nominated to be member of the month. There are so many awesome members in our tribe I felt honoured to have been chosen.
Anita & Kenna, with their completed BINGO cards!
What advice would you give to someone just starting their health and fitness journey?
Be patient! It takes time for weight to come off and for you to build muscle, stamina and endurance so hang on in there. Also, try not to compare yourself to anyone else. It’s your journey and no-one else’s.
What is your favourite class and why?
This is a tough one as I enjoy all the classes for different reasons. If pushed, I would have to say Pilates because those small movements can be very powerful and Body Sculpt & Sweat as it is a tough class which targets different areas of the body. Always such a sense of accomplishment when that class is finished!
What is your biggest dream?
To be fit and healthy and have the endurance and stamina to check off all the things on my bucket list when I retire.
Anything else you would like to share?
I would just like to thank Courtney and her amazing staff for creating such a caring, inclusive environment. Loyobo is so much more than a gym, it is a caring community. For anyone looking for a place to work out where you are recognized and treated as an individual please give Loyobo a try – you won’t regret it!
Congratulations Anita! You deserve this moment in the spotlight as we celebrate the awesomeness that is YOU. THANK YOU for being vulnerable and open to sharing your story and for reminding us that taking to be patient with ourselves and to push past our fears! We are seriously so proud of you and feel so lucky to have you as part of our Loyobo Family!
Feeling inspired? You could be our next Member of the Month! Try a class today with our 30 day trial for first time participants! And make sure to say hi if you see Anita around the studio!
See you all again soon!
– Courtney