Meet The Member – Kim

23/01/2023
Meet The Member – Kim

Our team were very privileged to meet the wonderful Kim Underwood on a recent visit to Tipton Leisure Centre.

Kim has been a One Card member for over eight years, and we were keen to find out more about her fantastic weight loss and enthusiasm for life.

 

Tell us about your fitness journey?

I’ve always been conscious about having a healthy lifestyle after losing my Dad to a heart attack when I was just sixteen.

The prompt for me to get fit was attending the centre and watching my son have his swimming lessons. I really wanted to lead a fitter and healthier lifestyle for him. My weight had reached 24 ½ stone, so it was time for me to take action.

I started by attending gym sessions, and this expanded into classes through the encouragement of Karen, a long-standing member of the team at Tipton Leisure Centre.

Chris and John have been wonderful with their ongoing support, ensuring I keep pushing myself and to stay motivated.

 

Is there any reason you use Tipton and Wednesbury Leisure Centre?

My own mental health struggled after a long-term marriage breakdown, but the SLT team at both centres offered me amazing support and encouragement. The regular gym sessions with a wide range of classes, delivered by amazing instructors, proved to be life changing for me. Everyone is so friendly.

 

How does SLT meet your needs?

What more can you want? Great gym equipment, a huge selection of uplifting fitness classes and wonderful staff throughout. The team also offered support to overcome a nasty calf injury I suffered.

 

How did you get advice about diet?

Slimming World were excellent in their advice on diet and nutrition. The healthy eating plan combined with my SLT workouts helped me loose half my bodyweight. I now weigh under 12 stone!

 

What motivates you to keep going?

Don’t get me wrong, some days I wake up feeling lousy, but once I swipe into my class or gym session at reception, I’m ready for action. I know the feeling I have when I’ve finished will be amazing and give me a lift for the rest of the day. The satisfaction of “I’ve done it!” is something I love.

 

Can you offer and advice for anyone thinking of starting a healthier lifestyle?

It’s too easy to do nothing, sign up today and it will make a difference to your mental and physical health.

Don’t be embarrassed, it really doesn’t matter about your size or strength, SLT can help you achieve your personal goals whatever they may be. I’m so grateful for the new levels I’ve reached here at Tipton Leisure Centre.

I’m always encouraging friends to come along and join. Make 2023 about you!

 

Do you follow SLT on social media?

Yes, I follow SLT on Facebook and Instagram. I can’t wait to see some photos taken today to support this interview.