When Rachel walked into Function Fitness for the first time, she wasn’t sure what to expect. Winning a spot in a six-week challenge in the summer of 2023 felt like luck - but it also came with nerves. She didn’t know anyone, hadn’t been a fan of exercise and carried memories of hating PE at school.
“I’ve never liked exercise, hated PE at school, never being picked for a team, and coming last in every race. So attending those first few sessions was really scary for me.”
But stepping through those doors marked the start of an incredible journey - one where Rachel didn’t just build physical strength but also gained a newfound sense of confidence and community.
Rachel’s six-week challenge wasn’t just a fitness program; it was a turning point. She discovered how exercise could benefit her mentally as much as physically, helping her feel stronger and more in control.
“I’ve learned that everyone is on their own journey, and I know what exercise is good for me now—not just for my body, but for my mind too.”
With encouragement from the coaches and her gym family, Rachel began pushing herself further, unlocking abilities she never thought possible.
Rachel’s experience at Function Fitness couldn’t have been more different from her previous gym. In her own words:
“At my old gym, I had a basic induction and was left to figure things out on my own. One day, I got stuck on a machine, and instead of helping me, other members just laughed. I walked out and never went back.”
Function Fitness proved to be a completely different environment - a supportive, uplifting space where every coach knows what you’re capable of and helps you achieve more.
“The Function Fitness family is so supportive—everyone is a cheerleader for everyone!”
One of Rachel’s biggest hurdles has been self-doubt. However, with the encouragement of her coaches, she has learned to believe in herself and recognise how far she’s come. Her newfound confidence shines through in her achievements, such as deadlifting 80kg - a personal milestone she proudly shared with her husband.
“Just achieving anything I didn’t think I could do feels amazing. Deadlifting 80kg and coming home to tell my husband what I did—that was a shining moment for me.”
Rachel’s journey is far from over. She’s set her sights on new goals, including reaching a 100kg deadlift, mastering a proper pushup, and conquering a box jump. While these might seem simple to others, for Rachel, they represent the next exciting steps in her fitness journey.
“I can’t wait to achieve these!”
For anyone hesitant about joining Function Fitness, Rachel has a simple message:
“Give it a go! What have you got to lose? I bet you’ll love it!”
Rachel’s story is proof that it’s never too late to start, that support can make all the difference, and that small steps lead to incredible progress. From overcoming self-doubt to lifting weights she once thought impossible, Rachel has shown what’s possible with determination, encouragement, and a community that truly cares.
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