We caught up with Cathy from B.A.S.E Fitness, to talk about her journey into physical activity, how she became an instructor and how she overcame her own personal barriers.
“I have always loved being active as I find it helps with my mental health, not just my physical. I suffer with body dysmorphia and have had eating disorders most of my life, so I prefer doing home workouts, rather than going to the gym.”
In 2019, the Essex Local Delivery Pilot and Sheltered Housing, co-funded a microgrant, which enabled Cathy to access training in order for her to teach keep fit sessions.
After her completing her personal trainer course, Cathy said: “To begin with I was terrified! I had no self-confidence, low self-esteem and no idea if I would make it through day 1. Nearly a year down the line I am just waiting to take my final exam and have since set up my own business which has completely changed my outlook on life and what can be achieved when you face your fears.
I have been working with my colleagues at Basildon Borough Council to help them improve their physical fitness and mental wellbeing. I have introduced them to various types of physical activity and have educated them on the importance of daily activity, such as walking, housework, gardening etc. I also provide advice on the importance of nutrition and give them tips on how to have a healthy, balanced diet.”
Cathy has been delivering live classes via Zoom every week and held a 30-day Christmas countdown at the end of last year. Her classes are built around a social atmosphere and includes a chat every Thursday on nutrition, motivation, and wellbeing. After overcoming her barriers, Cathy aims to help others by encouraging self-confidence and gratitude in order to improve mental wellbeing. She believes it’s important to reflect and take time for yourself, and her Saturday morning session offers a stretch and meditation class to allow participants to have a moment of peace to appreciate all they have achieved throughout the week.
Cathy has produced a small leaflet of exercise routines for the elderly residents in sheltered housing to help keep them active during the covid-19 pandemic. Once permitted, Cathy hopes to deliver these exercise classes in person.
Cathy said: “B.A.S.E.Fitness was set up to empower women to become the best version of themselves by giving them the tools to believe in themselves, achieve their goals and succeed in all areas of their lives.”
The Essex Local Delivery Pilot wishes Cathy all the best in her endeavours.
