What members say
There’s no better way to understand what Fitmums and Friends is all about than hearing from the people who take part. Here, our members and participants in our specialist programmes share their own experiences of joining us, attending sessions and being part of our community.
Whether you are thinking about coming along for the first time or wondering what to expect, we hope their stories will give you a real sense of the welcome, support, friendship and opportunities that you might find at Fitmums and Friends.
Beverley Fitmums and Friends member
Just wanted to share with you how much I enjoyed my first half marathon yesterday - I finished in just over 3 hours (in spite of the hills ?) and have raised over £700 (!!) for Maggie's Centres for Cancer Care (who have been a big support to my family in recent times). Am still on cloud 9 today to be honest - who knew I'd be able to achieve something like this after those first sessions of couch 2 5k 3 years ago!!
There were SO many Fitmums en route, either as official volunteers or unofficial cheerleaders, and I felt so supported and encouraged from start to finish - I am so proud to be part of our amazing community! ?? xxx
Participant - Dragon Boat Programme (Breast Cancer)
What a fantastic opportunity to take part in something completely out of my comfort zone; with friends.
We’ve supported each other through the worst of times, but it was such a joy yesterday to look round at everyone’s smiling faces. The camaraderie, was palpable and infectious.
Yesterday morning I felt trepidation… I’m now signed up for being part of the TIG Team, to race in September!. Thank you Fitmums and Breast Friends, for an afternoon of friendship and fun on the water, in the beautiful Dragon Boat.
Participant - Dragon Boat Programme (Breast Cancer)
It was a lovely session on 16th, thank you so much for organising everything to make it happen.
I felt overwhelming emotion when I turned the corner and saw the boats sitting there ready to go, looking amazing. Over many years I have built a solid scab over the wounds of everything that goes with breast cancer…this beautiful sight lifted that to one side a little, and tears flowed. I spent a couple of hours amongst Her Breast Friends women on our boat, and departed with information, community and the fun and joy of life.
Please don’t change anything, it was lovely. Many thanks
Participant - Menopause Activity Programme
I absolutely loved the sessions! The friendly, inclusive vibe made it so easy to join in and kept me coming back each week. I really enjoyed the walk-and-talks, the cuppa afterwards, and all the opportunities to connect with others.
The information, the strength and conditioning, and the yoga were all so valuable – I learned so much and felt supported throughout. I really hope these sessions can be offered in other areas – the combination of knowledge, exercise, and the Fitmums community offer is just fabulous. I really appreciate everything you have given to the group.
Participant - Together in Grief Programme
I was introduced to this group by a friend who thought I would benefit from it as I was going through a low time grieving for my partner. He certainly hit the nail on the head!!
I found the session welcoming and warming, like I was being hugged. I look forward to the Wednesday mornings immensely. Everyone is friendly, and we are conscious we are there for the same reason. But it is not morbid, more uplifting.
It's a great way to get out and meet people. It also makes you realise you are truly not alone. Keep up the good work I say!!
Parent of child at junior athletics session
Just wanted to say though, that I’ve been super impressed with every contact that I’ve had with Fitmums - whether that’s the admin support/queries, the website (Super easy to use) and most importantly, the sessions themselves. [Child] has thoroughly enjoyed them so far. Sometimes it’s difficult to get him to engage with things like this - we’ve tried rugby and football. But this has really got his attention. Thank you to everyone involved.