Client Journeys - Emily Eastham
Coming back from pregnancies and injuries
I’ve been reasonably fit since I took up running in my early 20’s, but 2 pregnancies/c-sections, and a spate of knee injuries in my 30’s slowed me down. Then the pandemic, and perimenopause, also joined the party; my fitness declined, my weight started to creep up and my mental health took a hit too.
I was still running, but could only manage shorter distances, and a much slower pace, in-between knee problems. I was struggling with motivation and turning to food to cheer me up. It was my friend Gwen who asked if I fancied getting a personal trainer together, otherwise I would never have considered it. I have run several half marathons and spent lots of time in the gym, so thought I knew what I was doing, and didn’t need the extra cost of a PT to help me. It was the encouragement of another friend that made me decide to give it a go, and we signed up with Alan from GriffinFit thinking we would maybe do it for 3 months, 6 at most.
16 months later, I can honestly it was one of the best decisions I’ve made.
When I look back, I can’t believe how far we have come in that time. Much fitter, much, MUCH stronger, lost a few kg of weight, but many more inches by replacing fat with muscle, taken 10 years off my metabolic age and generally feel far fitter and much healthier and happier. Not to mention my running has improved - both pace and distance - and I’m no longer struggling in the same way with repetitive injuries. I also recently decided to brave the sports massage and was surprised by the results. Hurt like hell (not gonna lie!) but I felt like a new woman the following morning and the next run saw further improvements in pace with no discernible extra effort.
So yes, a personal trainer is not a cheap option, but if you are ready to put the effort in it is an effective one. Alan pushes me harder than I will push myself, he helps to keep me motivated when I’m struggling, every week is different so it doesn’t get boring, and it’s really rewarding when you see the progress you have made.
I’m fitter and stronger in my 40s than I have ever been. Even better, my efforts are inspiring my two daughters to think more about their health and fitness in a holistic, healthy way and they love having a strong Mummy!
