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Charlie Banfield

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November 18, 2024

Why Showing Up Is Half The Battle: Pregnancy, Postpartum and the London Marathon - Naomi’s Unstoppable Journey

When Naomi walked into Function Fitness for the first time, just before the second lockdown, she was nervous. Like many, she had always attended fitness classes with friends, but this time, she was determined to do something just for herself. The open gym was a new experience, and while she stuck to the cardio machines initially, the simple act of showing up was her first victory.

Little did she know, her journey would lead to life-changing achievements, including running the London Marathon, embracing pregnancy with strength, and shedding 15.5kg postpartum - all while becoming a beacon of inspiration for the Function Fitness community.

Starting Small, Dreaming Big

When Naomi began, her goal was simple: keep showing up. Once she established that habit, she focused on her nutrition with the support of Gemma, one of the Function Fitness coaches. Over a year, she lost 2 stone and became the fittest she had ever been.

Feeling motivated, Naomi decided to tackle a lifelong dream: running the London Marathon. With the fitness foundation she built in the gym, alongside the encouragement and advice from her coaches, she achieved the unimaginable - completing the marathon in under five hours.

Pregnancy and Perseverance

Naomi’s fitness journey didn’t stop when she became pregnant. Determined to stay active, she trained up until 35 weeks, adapting workouts with care and guidance. She admits it wasn’t always easy:

“I found adapting the workouts hard because I knew I could do heavier weights or a higher level, but I had to slow down. The weight gain during pregnancy was also tough after working so hard to lose it before.”

But Naomi didn’t let these challenges stop her. With Gemma’s support and reassurance that she had overcome it before, Naomi stayed positive. At just three weeks postpartum, she returned to the gym, taking it easy but showing up nonetheless.

Now, eight months postpartum, Naomi is on a new mission. In the last five months, she has lost 15.5kg, rediscovering her strength and confidence with every step.

A Community That Cares

Naomi credits much of her success to the supportive and uplifting environment at Function Fitness:

“If you’re not feeling your best, they make you feel good because you turned up. Sometimes, that’s all that matters. And if you want to reach a certain level, they make you believe you can. They’ve shown me that failure isn’t failure—it’s just part of the journey.”

Beyond the coaches, Naomi found friendship and community among other members. From cheering each other on during tough workouts to celebrating wins together, the camaraderie has been a driving force in her journey.

Shining Moments

Among Naomi’s proudest achievements are running the London Marathon and her postpartum weight loss. But even more meaningful is the sense of belief she has cultivated in herself:

“I doubt myself weekly. At every check-in, I say I don’t think I’ve done well, but I always prove myself wrong. Gemma has encouraged me and praised me throughout, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

Looking Ahead

Naomi isn’t stopping now. Her next big goal? Competing in a Hyrox—a fitness competition she’s admired from afar. As she puts it, “Watch this space!”

Naomi’s Advice to Anyone on the Fence

For anyone considering joining Function Fitness, Naomi’s message is clear:

“It honestly is the best gym. The coaches care deeply about you and what’s happening in your life. They know you on a personal level, and the community is incredible. You’ll always have someone cheering you on, even when you don’t feel like cheering for yourself.”

Naomi’s journey is a testament to the power of showing up, setting goals and leaning on a supportive community. From fitting into her jeans to crossing the finish line at the London Marathon, she’s achieved so much - and this is just the beginning.

Are you ready to start your own story? Take the first step today and book your free No Sweat Intro with the simple click of a button above. You never know where it might lead you.

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