Meet The Member - Eugene
Our team had the pleasure of meeting with Sandwell Aquatics Centre member Eugene at a recent centre photoshoot. Eugene shared with us his fitness journey so far, as well as his positive experience at the brand-new centre!
Can you confirm your full name, occupation and what town you live in?
Hello, my name is Eugene Cortez. I am a nurse by background but currently works as Senior Capacity Manager at SWBH NHS Trust. I live in Smethwick.
Tell us about your fitness journey?
Through the years, I have been joining different gyms but end up cancelling my membership by winter! This year, something just clicked when I turned 45. I started walking and going to the gym after my shifts. Then I signed up to join SAC in the summer and started going to different classes on my days off.
Is there any reason you use Sandwell Aquatics Centre?
Apart from it being brand spanking new, it is literally at my doorstep. I love the fact that it is so local to me that I can come and go multiple times in a day if I want to.
What are your favourite sessions & why?
I do a lot of classes. All of them are my favourite. Body Pump, HIIT, Grit, Yoga, Pilates, Body Balance, Steps and Zumba!
How does SLT meet your needs? Have you had and 1 to 1’s?
As I do long hour shifts, I get to have more days off. I love the fact that I can do classes in the day of the week and not rely on weekends.
I have not had a chance to book my 1 to 1, but it is on my to do list.
Do you have a favourite instructor who manages to get that extra bit of motivation from you?
They are all my favourite! I can honestly say that all the instructors are very friendly, approachable, and helpful. Angie, Heather, Pete, Mike, Andrea, I can’t remember all the names, but they are all brilliant!
What impact does attending the centre have on your physical & mental health?
Attending classes in SAC made a great improvement both on my physical and mental wellbeing. I feel happier and able to give more to my family and my work at the same time. I find myself sorting my day-to-day activities around my gym classes. I think this is important, make time to the things that bring you joy and fulfilment in life.
What motivates you to keep going?
Feeling generally happy and more active really motivate me to go to the gym. People can see the difference in me since I started exercising. Not only the physical aspect but also the vibe that I give people.
Can you offer advice for anyone thinking of starting a healthier lifestyle?
In anything you do in life, you must enjoy doing it. There is no point going to the gym if it only makes you miserable. Find joy in what you, this will be a good start.
Do you follow SLT on social media, what do you see as the benefits?
I follow SLT on Instagram and Facebook. In this time of age, one of the ways to keep up to date is via the social media.
