FUN FITNESS FOR ALL
Top Banana fitness was founded in November 2019 , With the fundamental aim of encouraging all people whatever their age shape, size, fitness level etc to participate in physical exercise in a fun and enjoyable way. I get a massive buzz from helping people achieve their fitness goals whatever they may be. Many people would like to join a gym (not all) and we have many great gyms in the south lincolnshire area, but from personal experience I know that these can be quite intimidating and daunting, particularly if you lack confidence, are overweight or have a low fitness level even more so if you are on your own. Often walking through the gym doors on that first occasion is the biggest challenge. I work in partnership with local gyms and can give you a few sessions of personal training at your own home, and at my own Studio gym until you have enough confidence to join. I will even come with you on your first gym visit (free of charge) to introduce you to the gym you can get your first visit free and even take part in one of my classes for free of charge.
Why the name top banana fitness? Top banana is one of the many silly phrases I use in my classes and personal training sessions to promote FUN fitness, most of us are not training to be Olympic athletes or top level sportsman. Yes we need to push ourselves outside of our comfort zone fun but my philosophy is regular small steps to achieve longer term realistic goals. We should enjoy the sessions, and feel confident in whatever we do that way we don't give up and keep returning.
MY FITNESS JOURNEY
I was a typical billy bunter at school weighing 12.5 stone when I was 12 years old, I struggled to climb the stairs without getting out of breathe, I was always the last or nearly last at cross country running and was the last to be picked when playing football and had very little self confidence. Everything changed in 1981 when I was 17 years old and my cousin took me to the a local weight training club. That is were I picked up the fitness bug. In 2002 I decided I wanted to learn more and successfully completed my level 2 gym instructor and level 3 Personal training courses in 2020 I successfully completed my level 3 GP referal qualification and have completed many Fitness qualifications. I worked part time at local gyms and took up running, gym classes and have more recently started to take on obstacle course races. I have been involved in Fitness for over 38 years so have a wealth of experience, I have successfully competed in Body building competitions numerous 10k runs and half marathons including the Great north run twice, completed the Lincoln to Boston Rowing marathon and various obstacle courses.
I am not an elite athlete, I like to think I have a reasonable fitness level for someone of my age (60+) but I don't pretend to be the fittest, quickest or the strongest but I do like to push myself and above all enjoy any exercise I take part in.
MENTAL HEALTH AND EXERCISE
Having suffered from Depression and anxiety in the past I know personally how regular exercise can help. It has helped me enormously over the years, It is not just the good feeling you get when you have exercised its also the social aspect. I personally have made so many close friends from being at the gym or attending classes. The benefits should not be underestimated. I have also completed level 2 training in understanding and first aid for mental health issues