Supportive gym makes task easier
Alice Graham wants to feel comfortable in her own skin. As a busy mum with three children, finding a spare moment to look after her own health was proving to be an uphill battle.
‘‘There is always an excuse – something or someone that needs more attention than me,’’ Graham said.
‘‘And I’ve never really been a social person so the idea of going to a gym was always a bit daunting.
‘‘It was always hard to be confident enough to walk into a gym.’’
However, all apprehension melted away when she instantly enveloped by the family-style atmosphere of the IronMaori Ki Hawera Whanau Training and Support group.
‘‘They were so welcoming and supportive.
‘‘You can go to any gym and work out but without that supportive atmosphere my motivation would drop pretty quickly.
‘‘I think I would have given up by now if it wasn’t for this group of inspirational and caring people.’’
Now, with a broad smile on her face, she talks confidently about her latest fitness goal.
‘‘I just completed my first IronMaori last weekend. It’s quite exciting. I finally got a chance to put my training into action.
‘‘We all have to start somewhere.
‘‘Don’t think about where you’re at now, think about where you want to be and focus on that.’’
Her new found motivation to improve her health has also started paying off at work.
She said the gym’s early evening classes have given her an extra spring in her step during her late shifts at work.
‘‘I have a lot more energy now and I’m enjoying the pre-work workout.