Testimonials from my Clients

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       Posted on Google  
    Christina Lankshear 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was recommended by a friend.  I have numerous health issues which have been allowed for in the exercise programme. Helen has adapted exercises according to points raised by myself and there has been a balanced progression. I would recommend Helen to any age or ability. You can be sure she listens to you hence I have been confident with the structured exercise session.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Chaloner Chute 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Helen is a gifted teacher . Following a traumatic bike/road accident, her classes have given me confidence, and renewed purpose, and exercises that have improved strength, balance, muscle toning, and always fun too!  She is aware of all the members in class and is happy to to help and support where needed. The weekly activities are varied and she caters for all ages. I highly recommend Helen's classes for anyone wishing to keep mobile, fit, healthy and active in older age.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Vanessa STUART 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This lovely class is a nice mixture of very useful balance exercises and light strength and flexibility movements.  Each exercise offers options to suit different capabilities.  You will feel you have exercised, and over a period of time will notice marked improvements in stability, strength and balance, I certainly have.  It's fun and sociable and there is tea and coffee afterwards. Come!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Jane Young 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Helen is a great teacher . She is aware of everyone in her class and ready to offer advice where necessary . A varied group of activities well designed for her clients . I would highly recommend for anyone with mobility issues , just want to keep physically strong in older age .
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Nicolas Palmer 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thank you Helen for your help and support, the classes have been life changing both physically and mentally. Mobility and confidence in doing daily tasks have grown enormously in a few months. Classes are lovely and so good to meet people who have same health issues. Highly recommend. Frances Palmer.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    christabel milner 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The weekly class is friendly and welcoming, there is a variety of exercises, all of which I feel are of help to different parts of my body.  Some of the exercises are more challenging, some are easy. I finish the class pleasantly tired, but not exhausted, and if I miss a class, I definitely feel more than ready for the next one. The class is fairly priced, and I am enjoying it more than several other similar classes I have tried.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Laurance Beckett 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My months spent with Helen at her exercise/balance class have completely changed my view on all body exercise. I have always lead an active life,  but since those classes l have realized how important it is to exercise daily for balance and strengthening one’s muscles and ligaments. Without mobility, how limited and lonely our old age could be! Sadly UK winter weather doesn’t encourage, or sometimes enable us, to get out and walk each day. But a cheap exercise bike makes all the difference to keeping fitter on miserable days whilst watching TV or using headphones.  It’s easy to do armchair knee (squeezing ball), leg, punching out, wrist weight and bands exercises whilst watching TV. Also neck exercises and deep breathing. Whilst standing to do domestic chores (or hair drying) one has time for kick back, tip toe, and one leg balances. It’s just making a habit of building exercises into one’s daily life. Loss of muscle power decreases when aging, so there’s need to make time to do more exercises. It’s really worth it and to continue with the classes if self motivation isn’t one’s ‘thing’.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Peter Nippard 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend Helen's class. Having two hip replacements, neck issues and osteoporosis Helen's exercises have certainly had a positive effect on my overall mobility. Even if I arrive at the class with aches and pains, I find by the end of the class I feel the benefit. For most exercises there are three levels which you can choose depending on how well you feel on the day. Christine
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Trix Blackshaw 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I joined Whole Life Fitness with the aim of honing my body movements. I'm classed as disabled. I walk with 2 crutches or use my walker or for longer distances, I use my mobility scooter. I have a degenerative spinal condition & can no longer stand unaided. When I 1st joined this very friendly group, I found I couldn't even attempt some of the exercises the class were doing. Not being able to stand without aids meant some exercises were beyond my means. But our very experienced instructor catered for my needs very quickly on the spot & I was given the seated option of the same exercise. There were times when I thought "I had bitten off more than I could chew" but I persevered. Our instructor, Helen, advised me on better walking aids. Namely - Rehabilitation walking poles. I use these now in the class if there is walking to do or if we are doing walking on the spot & knee raising  exercises, instead of bending over & holding the chair & not being able to do the exercises effectively. I've learnt several exercises on how to put out my foot & recover my balance to prevent falling. If I should fall, which used to happen quite frequently, I have learnt how to get back up on my feet again. Still working on that exercise as I have not perfected that one. But even so, regaining ones balance & being able to get up off the floor has been a real gift for me. Each week I think this class is beyond my capabilities, but each week I find I'm improving in what is being taught. Helen always keeps an eye out for all her pupil's needs. She runs the class so professionally & is always able to keep a certain element of light heartedness too. The exercises are varied & concentrate on all parts of the body. Whole Life Fitness is a very apt name for the class she gives. I'm challenged each & every time I attend & I'm so glad I attend these classes. My main aim is to be as mobile as I'm able for as long as I can. I would recommend this class to anyone who is in the mature age group. Able or not. There is something for everyone in Whole Life Fitness.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Christopher Spendlove 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've been going to Helen's Whole Life Fitness classes for a year now.  I was in and out of hospital during 2023 and my mobility was difficult. I do not have strong muscle strength due to my medical condition, but the exercises has strengthened my leg and arm muscles and I feel more confident in my wellbeing.  I look forward to these sessions each week.
  
 
  
  
 
 
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Strength and Balance Personal Training with Ann

When Ann started personal training she found it difficult getting out of a dining room chair and had to use her hands to help herself up. Now she is able to sit down and stand up multiple times whilst holding weight.

What made you decide to start personal training with Helen?

Decline in my mobility and confidence in walking after spending a number of years caring for my husband at home.

What were you most concerned about before you started?

I was worried about what i was letting myself in for when I first started the group classes and a fear of being pushed beyond my level of comfort or ability. But I really enjoyed the classes up til the first Lockdown. The transition to having Helen come to me at home was very smooth and I found it much easier having 1 to 1 attention. It is completely geared up for me, and my abilities and what I need, which makes it perfect.

What health and fitness changes have you noticed since starting?

Helen pulls me out of myself and makes me do things I wouldn’t do on my own. Physically, I have found that I am more able to rise from sitting position and I can feel that I have more strength in my legs. Also, I have more confidence which helps me keep more active. I look forward to the classes, and afterwards I get a real lift in my spirits and am very glad to be doing it. I have noticed that the classes do help my mental wellbeing considerably.

Is there any feedback you would like to provide me about the sessions?

The personal training is absolutely brilliant and I would recommend it to anyone in my situation. Helen is obviously able to adapt her training so well to the individual and their needs. She has a lovely positive personality and cheers me up! She always makes me feel that I can do it! I have found that I actually really enjoy having 2 shorter sessions in the week rather than one long session – which has been a positive result of the lockdown! Having 2 sessions keeps me going during the week and gives me something to look forward to. I can’t think of anything that can be improved on – Helen is excellent at judging just what I need and changing things when I need it. She gives me lots to work on, but this never feels onerous! One of the best things I have ever done and a positive to have come out of this year.

What specific feature do you like most about personal training?

The fact that the training is totally geared to my needs and abilities

Strength and Balance Personal Training with Beth

What made you decide to start personal training with Helen?

To get an exercise regime tailored to meet my needs

What were you most concerned about before you started?

Need to strengthen thigh and leg muscles and improve general fitness

What health and fitness changes have you noticed since starting?

Improved endurance and greater strength in hips, legs and thighs. There’s been definite progress

Is there any feedback you would like to provide me about the sessions? General thoughts about the workouts or where I could improve my service for you.

I’m extremely happy with the way Helen runs my sessions and home practice exercises she gives. I welcome the constant monitoring and support I get

What specific feature do you like most about personal training?

The interpersonal interactions and that Helen makes sure my technique for each exercise is correct

Would you recommend this service? If so, why?

Absolutely. Helen is a first class instructor and is constantly monitoring how I’m feeling. She puts enough pressure on to help me progress but is happy to adapt if I need a less intense session – like during the very hot weather

Strength and Balance Personal Training with Brian

What made you decide to start training with Helen?

I had attended one of her classes and a neighbour told me she also did one-to-one and recommended I use her

What were your goals when you started training and have you achieved them?

To get mobile again after many weeks since developing a severe pain when walking home from town

Have you seen any improvements in health or fitness since you have started?

Yes, enormous! I have regained confidence not only for walking on my own, but for going up and down stairs – provided I have good handrails

Is there any feedback you would like to provide about the sessions or the service which will help me improve the training for others?

Helen is very strict in the nicest possible way

Strength and Balance Personal Training with SP

What made you decide to start training with Helen?
After a nasty accident, needed help getting back on my feet.

What were your goals when you started training and have you achieved them?
To be able to walk normally again, and try to regain my previously reasonably active life.

Have you seen any improvements in health or fitness since you have started?
Definitely. Helen has helped me so much with strength, balance and stamina enabling me to start walking again without assistance and gain confidence with everything and helping me to get back to a normal life.

Is there any feedback you would like to provide about the sessions or the service which will help me improve the training for others?
Helen was recommended by a friend, and without her help and encouragement, it would have taken me a lot longer to improve my fitness. Even to start gardening again. She is very professional, and seems to know exactly how to help improve the weakest areas. I’m very grateful for all her help, care and assistance, and look forward to joining her class soon.

Would you recommend this service to others?
I would definitely recommend her, and know that she could greatly help others in similar situations. Thanks so much Helen.

Strength and Balance Personal Training with Richard

Richard attends the Newell Centre exercise class

What made you decide to look for a strength and balance exercise class?

I am 88 and was becoming increasingly aware that sense of balance was deteriorating badly

What were you most concerned about before you started?

Balance. And loss of strength in both my legs and my upper body

What health and fitness changes have you noticed since starting? Are any activities easier now?

After several months my sense of balance has improved. And I’m slowly rebuilding strength in my legs

What specific feature do you like most about the class?

The fact that the exercises are linked closely to normal daily activities – geeting up from a chair, picking up the shopping, lifting up something to put in a cupboard, day to day balance, etc. And it’s all geared to my age !

Would you recommend this class? If so, why?

Strongly recommend it to anyone dealing with the problems of ageing

Is there any other feedback you would like to provide me about the class?

Helen is an excellent teacher. Always enthused and entertaining

Strength and Balance Personal Training with June

June has been coming to the strength and balance exercise classes for a few years.

What made you decide to look for a strength and balance exercise class? *

Help with mobility and strengthen muscles.

What were you most concerned about before you started? *

My balance

What health and fitness changes have you noticed since starting? Are any activities easier now? *

Exercises seemed easier to complete over time, noticed some movements were easier to complete

What specific feature do you like most about the class? *

The instructor – Helen’s care and attention to detail with all of us in the class

Would you recommend this class? If so, why? *

Yes – benefits people and build confidence

Is there any other feedback you would like to provide me about the class? *

Both my husband and I are amazed at the number of activities we do, the planning and care that is put into it by Helen.

Strength and Balance Personal Training with Christabel

“I have only been in the class since January 4th 2022, but I have noticed a great improvement in my ability to get down on to the floor, (which I have to do to access my freezer!) and to get up and down more easily when gardening.

My balance is improving. I enjoy the class, I like the system of IN and OUT! This makes the brain work, and each exercise is different, and wakes up and uses a different part of the body.

Previous classes I have been to, you remain in one place, and it can be boring. I would welcome the return of the step up exercise, as this is one I found most worrying, and I need practice. I hopped on to a log recently while dog walking, and off again, which impressed my daughter!

I like the friendly atmosphere of the class, and I think you do a great job.”

Since receiving this email the step up has been re-introduced to the class!

The following reviews are from both clients who attend the exercise classes and those who do 1:1 personal training.

“Very friendly and I don’t feel bad if I find the exercise too tiring. Helen goes out of her way to provide the right aids to make the exercises more comfortable for me. I am happy that we also do exercises for the strengthening of the upper body.”

“Balance better, less likely to fall, can now put trousers on without having to hold on to something – similar with shoes.”

It is fun, and carefully tailored to our individual needs. There is no pressure, and Helen often says, “Challenge yourself, but stay within your comfort zone”, which I really appreciate.”

“Helen is very good at motivating everyone and I am definitely much stronger and my balance is much better.”

“Everyone’s attitude “I will try to do this” which comes initially from the Instructor, and we do so, however clumsy we are. I find the Instructor very good & understanding of individual’s abilities.”

“I have given up several physiotherapists or exercise classes in the past, because I became disheartened, or they were painful. This is the most enjoyable class I have been to – I do believe it is helping me, but it is also fun and friendly!”

“Taking part in your weekly lessons has encouraged me to do a lot more exercise, as you know when I was first persuaded to come to your lessons (it took a year of persuasion by my friends) I hated exercising, but now I look forward to our class. It’s great to see my body returning to a more youthful shape and to be able to run upstairs instead of plodding up, now that I am exercising I have so much more energy”

Get in touch with me to find out how I can improve your life through exercise.

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Testimonials from my Clients

Strength and Balance Personal Training with Ann

Strength and Balance Personal Training with Beth

Strength and Balance Personal Training with Brian

Strength and Balance Personal Training with SP

Strength and Balance Personal Training with Richard

Strength and Balance Personal Training with June

Strength and Balance Personal Training with Christabel

The following reviews are from both clients who attend the exercise classes and those who do 1:1 personal training.

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07785 747669

helenrothwell@wholelifefitness.co.uk

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