Josie is a member of JPT Fitness who joined during lockdown, feeling unsure about starting her fitness journey — especially outside of a traditional gym setting.
The Challenge
Before joining, Josie didn’t see herself as a “gym person.”
She worried that everyone else would be fitter, more experienced, and that she might feel out of place.
Like many people, she also struggled with consistency — going through phases of starting exercise routines, only to fall off track shortly after.
Why She Nearly Didn't Start
Josie was sceptical at first.
She wasn’t sure about training outdoors and questioned whether it would suit her at all.
She also had concerns about fitting in and whether the environment would feel intimidating.
The Turning Point
Once she got started, everything changed.
Josie quickly realised that outdoor training wasn’t just something she could handle — she actually preferred it. The sessions felt more enjoyable, more relaxed, and far more inclusive than she expected.
With a variety of abilities in the group, she felt comfortable straight away. More importantly, she found exercises she genuinely enjoyed — which made staying consistent much easier.
The Results
Over the past 3 years, Josie has achieved:
Her longest period of consistency with exercise ever
Improved strength and overall fitness
Found a routine she genuinely enjoys
Built lasting friendships and a strong support network
Here’s what she had to say:
*“I joined in lockdown and at first I was unsure about working outside, but now I actually prefer it so much more. I was worried everyone would be super fit, but there’s loads of different abilities so I didn’t feel uncomfortable at all.
I’ve now been a member for 3 years, which is the most consistent I’ve ever been with exercise in my whole life. I feel much stronger, much fitter, and I’ve made loads of friends — people I’ll be friends with for life. It’s like a little community.
Everyone is really welcoming, sessions are fun, the trainers are friendly, and there’s so much going on outside the sessions like socials, retreats and events. There’s something for everyone.”*
What This Means for You
If you’ve ever felt like you’re “not a gym person”, struggled to stay consistent, or worried about fitting in — you’re not alone.
The right environment can completely change how you feel about fitness.