I joined Diana’s in October last year, hoping to get myself moving a bit more. At the time, I was extremely overweight, very unfit, and still suffering from the effects of Long Covid. From the very beginning—when I admitted I probably wouldn’t even be able to swim one length—I was met with nothing but encouragement. I was told that every length counted, and that I could swim one, then walk one. Not once did I feel judged, self-conscious, or like I didn’t belong.
By February this year, I decided to start taking GLP-1 medication to support my weight loss while continuing with my swimming. I’d gone from struggling to swim a single length to swimming 30 lengths twice a week. Slowly but surely, my confidence began to grow.
While swimming helped improve my fitness, by April I realised I needed more support. After speaking with the staff, I was introduced to Boe and began weekly 45-minute personal training sessions. To hold myself accountable, I bought a block of 10 sessions—half expecting I wouldn’t stick with it. Incredibly, I actually enjoyed the sessions. Me—enjoying exercise! Boe tailored each session to my abilities, while still challenging me to work hard.
After Boe left, I continued my PT sessions with Hayley, who also adapts everything to my level while encouraging me to push further—lifting and pressing more than I ever imagined possible. My fitness has improved dramatically, along with my confidence—not just in how I feel about myself, but in what my body is capable of.
To date, I’ve lost over 3 stone, reversed my type 2 diabetes, and lowered my blood pressure. Most importantly, I can now walk with purpose—without getting breathless—and feel proud of how far I’ve come.
I genuinely don’t believe I’d have this level of fitness, confidence, or improved mental health without the incredible support from everyone at Diana’s. My journey is far from over, but for the first time, I truly believe I’m going to make it.