Maddie's Story

I have been working with Abi for about a year now. I had previously worked with another trainer but got out of the habit during lockdown. I decided to eventually approach Abi as she came recommended and I wanted to work with a female Personal Trainer. 

When I started I knew I wanted to get into positive habits and routines around exercise, as well as re-learning how to lift safely and effectively. I particularly wanted to improve my deadlift.

Since starting, training wise, I have added 15 kg to my deadlift and learned so much about how to motivate myself to train, how to push myself and how to rest constructively.

The biggest change since starting however has been in reframing my attitude towards my body. As someone who has struggled with disordered eating for most of my adult life, I really value Abi’s approach.

She has offered me reassurance and confidence as she really listened to me about my goals. We unpicked together the stages of my journey and progress (I was initially ready to focus on weight loss but it’s been something I have been able to do more recently but in a healthy and compassionate way).

Working with a trainer who understands women and complexities of body image, confidence and disordered eating behaviours has been eye opening and so valuable.

I have a new found love for training again too. I find it so motivating to see the weights I can lift and push go up over the long term. It’s also so refreshing to train in a gym where I feel welcome and supported like I do at Stanza Fitness. The team and environment is really something special. 

The best thing about working with Abi is that she works me hard and has taught me a lot, but we still manage to laugh every session.