Carolynn has been attending my Fitness-Pilates classes with Julia (her partners mum) for a year now and has recently just taken up Neal's Nordic Walking sessions too.  She is bright, cheerful and enthusiastic participant and always has a smile on her face and a funny story to tell, whatever the weather.  Knowing that she had a heart defect and has been recommended to take up more exercise she decided to take the plunge and start a class or two.  She puts in 100% effort into her classes (even though balance can be a bit of a challenge) and shows fantastic commitment to her own health and general wellbeing and she feels fitter, happier and healthier and wouldn't change a thing.  Carolynn is another true inspiration to FitHaven so please continue to read her story below...

My name is Carolynn Bacon, I'm 35 and live in Wyboston with my partner Dave and three black cats, Crunchie, Rolo and Snowball.

I started going to Mel's Tuesday evening Fitness-Pilates classes in September 2007.  I  went along with my Daves mum, Julia as she was recommended Pilates as a way of helping her arthritis and she didn't fancy going on her own so I  “volunteered” to go along to keep her company!  Also, I have a heart defect which was diagnosed when I was six weeks old and at that time doctors were unsure what kind of effect this would have on my life as I grew up.  Having spent lots of time seeing doctors at Papworth Hospital over the years I often got told “to do some exercise” to help keep my heart healthy.  I didn't really take much notice and often "exaggerated” how much exercise I was doing!

I was a bit nervous in the beginning as I've never really been into fitness much before as was a bit worried as to what I'd let myself into! It soon became obvious after going to a few sessions that I was in fact really enjoying the whole idea of attempting to stand on one leg whilst holding a pilates ball! Having Mel explain what you're supposed to be doing and what muscles you're exercising is absolutely great, you really get a good idea of how the class helps you improve your strength and having a room full of people going through the same thing as you always helps :) We always have good fun, often ending up in a fit of giggles over something daft. I've certainly enjoyed meeting everyone and having a chat before we go into the session. Tuesday night's will never be the same again!

Whilst waiting to go into class one week, Neal mentioned that he was gong to run a new evening Nordic Walking session and as we both had no idea what that was Julia decided that she'd give it a go first and see what it was all about. To be perfectly honest I wasn't that keen as I've never been one for walking much, although we often do go walking on holiday, but that's not really the same is it!  I went to Julia's the following Tuesday and she said how much of a great time she had on the walk and wondered whether I'd fancy going along with her and as the classes were being held on a Wednesday night from Southoe it suited my work schedule and enabled me to fit in the session around everything else. So, I took my decision and went along to see what it was all about.

I bought my own set of nordic walking poles (although you can hire them from Mel & Neal) and Neal explained how to use them and the walking technique very well and off we went. I was completely surprised by the trails and tracks hidden at the back of the village although I wasn't really looking at the countryside much - I was too busy trying to keep up!  Having my heart problem does mean I tire very easily but I was determined not to let it beat me and carried on. There is no pressure to be at the front or with the group as you walk at your own pace and level and Neal does check that and stop to see that everyone is OK.   By the time we got back I was completely elated that I'd managed to walk nearly five miles and having support along the way with Neal and all the other members of the team it makes it all worthwhile.  I absolutely love the walks and have met some lovely people and always enjoy a chat along the route.

In conclusion, Mel and Neal are completely dedicated to their fitness classes and always have time to have a chat about any problems or even if you just want a quick chat at the end of a class, The people I've met, the laughs we have, are the reason for making the effort every week come rain or shine. I feel fitter, happier and healthier and I wouldn't change a thing!  I've now even started cycling again to help with the fitness and am hoping to do badminton in the winter months when I can't go Nordic Walking.

Beryl Atkin
Beryl is a keen regular class participant to my Tuesday morning Fitness-Pilates class in Buckden.  She has her favourite spot at the back of the room laughing (or groaning) her way through the class either to herself or with the others around her.  She is celebrating a BIG birthday this month - she is going to be 80 years old and I personally think that her attitude, drive and dedication is a true inspiration to all of us especially as she is seeing and feeling such great benefits from a regular Fitness-Pilates session in her life.  It is NEVER too late to start - here is her story - enjoy her inspiration...

I first began classes in September 2007 (I only wish I had begun years earlier!)  I know that I needed the incentive of a regular class and was sure that 'Pilates' was the one for me!  I go to the Tuesday morning class at Buckden Millennium Hall.  A morning class is best for me as I am an early riser and my energy levels are best in the morning.  Also the Hall is about 100 yards from house!! 

The class that I attend is is a very friendly class and everyone is well motivated which is a great encouragement to the less able.  There is quite a range of ages and abilities too which is good and does not make you feel inadequate or intimidated.  Everyone works to their own limits and we often laugh at ourselves (or Mel!).  Mel is an inspiration to us all.  Her enthusiasm is so evident and her knowledge so obvious that we all enjoy ourselves while she is doing us good - Thanks Mel! 

I go for a twenty minute walk every morning (very early, about 6am) and I try to do an hour of Pilates later in the week, using one of Mel's Fitness-Pilates DVD's.  But that is a lot harder to find the motivation to do that than going to class.  Pilates has improved my breathing, my posture, my muscle tone (at least for the few muscles I have!) and my blood pressure has also come down too, which is absolutely fantastic.

The discipline of attending a regular class is good for me so I am just grateful that I discovered Pilates and if an 80 year old with a pacemaker and a couple of stents can enjoy and benefit, why doesn't everyone try it!!!

Thanks for your story Beryl - you bring joy, laughter and true inspiration to everyone -  we all wish you a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Jo Carter
Jo is a young and bubbly mum of 3 young children and she had a BIG event this year.  She wanted to get 'Bride-fit' and set herself a goal and managed it in no time at all.  She put in a lot of hard work and effort, reached her dress size/weight goal and walked down the isle with complete body confidence.  As you can imagine she has a very busy home life too but she still managed to fit exercise as well as healthy eating into her lifestyle because SHE wanted to do if for herself.  She still continues to come to classes and here is her story...

"I started FitHaven classes in the winter of 06, but had to stop in the summer last year when problems during my third pregnancy prevented me from exercise - in fact I was on bed rest at certain times. I spent time in and out of the hospital, but thankfully Leo was born perfectly healthy on the 16th Feb this year. I decided to get back into shape as Mark and I had booked our wedding earlier in the year - for the 25th of May! It didn't give me long to lose the extra pounds. I only really got into the exercise once Leo was about 6 weeks old - although he had been born healthy, I had a few complications after the birth and had to have surgery. I lost a lot of blood and was anaemic for a while.

Anyway, once I started to try and lose the weight, I set myself the goal of being '9st something' on my wedding day! I started back at classes with Mel - in particular Legs, Bums and Tums. I also did her online downloads at home as getting to classes was often difficult with the 3 young boys at home! I mixed downloads and classes with riding my bike for 30 mins a day and I tried to be exercising at least 5 days a week. It was difficult fitting it in, but Mark and my family were really encouraging and helped when they could. I ate fairly healthy meals but my problem was snacking, especially in the evening in front of the TV. I found that doing the exercise in the evening replaced some of the time I'd sit there eating. I also switched chocolate and ice-cream for low fat yoghurt and fruit. I still ate chocolate when I wanted it though!!

It took a while for the pounds to start coming off, but they did and once it started, it came off quite quick. Before I knew it I was fitting back into clothes I hadn't worn since I fell pregnant with my second child! When my wedding day rolled around I was down to 9st 10lbs - I reached my target! In total I lost about 20lbs in just 14 weeks. Don't get me wrong - there is still work to be done. I'm not sure I'll ever reclaim my tummy after having 3 kids, but at least I am on the way. I am really proud of how well I have done and I had a fantastic wedding day. Thanks for your help Mel!"

 

Mandy Cartlidge
Mandy C is another one of the "Sawtry Stunners" gang and she is every bit of a "Stunner"!  She is a bright, sparkly and full-of-life class member and has been a loyal regular to Tuesday night and Thursday night classes for just over 2 years now.   I first met Mandy when she attended my special Sizzling Salsa Saturday Masterclasses at Harpers and then she filtered into my regular timetable of classes.  She is a very busy lady with plenty going on in her life, as everyone is these days, but she still and always manages to find the time to get her class fix over anything else.  One of the health benefits of her class attendance is to get fit and help with the reduction of high blood pressure, which I believe, is steadily lowering for her.  From her corner of the room you can always expect lots of laughs, giggles and sometimes squeals as she has immense fun with getting fit, which is what it is all about.  Mandy, your hair is gorgeous, you make me laugh and yes even during the blood, sweat and tears you ALWAYS look stunning...! 

Here is what she had to say...

When Mel asked me to be FitHavener of the month, I was both flattered and embarrassed as I wasn’t sure what to write about myself that people would be interested in reading but after thinking about it I came to the conclusion that I really enjoy reading about other FitHaveners’ so hopefully you do too.

I have been coming to Mel's classes now for the past two years and I really look forward to them as I feel great as a result, even though I may not always look it! You may have seen (or heard me) at the Tuesday or Thursday evening FitHaven classes as I am usually groaning in the Pilates classes or laughing, when I get the steps wrong, in the Legs Bums & Tums or Dancercise classes.

My parents travelled a great deal when I was young and I spent a lot of my childhood in Africa and have a real love for the country. I now live in Sawtry with my husband and have two grown up sons who both live away from home; one in Northampton and the other at University in Lincoln.  After juggling a full-time job, children and a home for the past 26 years, I found that suddenly my time was my own.  Initially, I felt lost without the boys at home but I made the decision that I would throw myself into getting fit and healthy.  So when a friend recommended Mel’s classes to me, I thought that I would give her a try.  I am lucky enough to share the driving with a good friend of mine but don’t have any qualms about going on my own as I just lose myself in the music and exercise and everybody is really friendly.

I have a full time job as a Property Administrator for a large company based in Huntingdon which is a very busy environment so I really look forward to my FitHaven sessions when, whatever the weather, I can throw myself into exercise and lose all the tension of the day. Mel’s classes are such fun and she keeps everyone's interest by changing the routines and the music regularly.  She never fails to amaze me how she can chat or sing through the exercise routines.  How does she do that?

In the early days of attending Mel’s classes, I was a very tired and unfit 51 year old and I used to worry that I couldn’t keep up with some of the exercise routines but after speaking to Mel about it, she put my mind at rest and I now learn to listen to my body and work at my own pace still gaining results, leaving the class feeling energized. I have noticed that since I have been coming to class, I feel more confident in my clothes and also feel that my mood has lifted and I feel more self-assured which has done wonders for my self esteem.

I have taken pills for high blood pressure for the past 10 years but have found that since I have been coming to Mel’s classes, my blood pressure has gradually reduced so I hope that in the future I will be able to stop the medication altogether.  I am convinced that it is down to exercise that has lowered my blood pressure.

Mel is a lovely person and such an inspiration. She has been very supportive to me over the past two years and I thank her for that.  I look forward to many more years of torture….. I mean exercising, with a twist of fun.  Thanks Mel……… Mx
 

Sharon Stone(ham)
WINNER of the FitHaven Survey 2007 10 class pass!

I come to classes so that Jim has to cook once a week instead of me cooking for him!! (Joke!! )

I come as I want to lose weight and get fitter. I have always played sport and with my job it is hard to play team games so i don't play much anymore. This is my night of exercise that i try and come to, I enjoy it and always end laughing at least once in the evening because of something Mel does or says!!

I come with Jim's sister Tracy, it means I get to spend time with my future sister in law (hopefully) and we support each other to ensure we come nearly every week. Tracy is getting married sometime next year so she has an aim plus I always have an aim of getting smaller in width not height!! You never know it could be my turn to walk down the aisle some day so my body is a work in progress!!

The thing I like most about the class i come to regularly (legs bums and Tums) is that unlike most classes when you do Ab exercises, we don't spend hours doing "killer" moves. mel always changes exercises and although we are working on these areas of our bodies, sometimes you don't even realise! They are short sharp bursts of pain!!

Mel's routines are unique and involve all manner of moves that you never use at other classes. One week we are doing salsa, the next we are doing combat moves, the next we are doing pony prancing! Unbelievable!!

Mel seems to have a way of making people get involved and dress up for seasonal or special evenings. Halloween/Christmas/Jane Fonda 80s there are too many ideas to even mention. Where else have you been to an exercise class and dressed up like a Christmas tree or in 80s lycra thongs and legwarmers?!!

Normally I am put off exercise classes by the super thin fit stuck up teachers-not at Mel's classes.  Mel and Neil greet you with a friendly hello, conversation, jokes, smiles and make each and every person feel welcome. Yes Mel is super thin and fit-but not stuck up and she never makes you feel bad or useless if you can't do anything. I know I am going to enjoy the class so even when I have had a bad day, one hour in Mel's company makes the stress of the day disappear.

I just wish I had time to do more of Mel's classes. I have attended her morning fitness pilates from time to time and this was great also with moves for all abilities. The thing you notice about Mel's classes are the people-all ages and all shapes. It's obvious that people feel comfortable coming and its because of mel.

I love the dancing and the music is fab especially the musicals!! Just keep doing what you do because it's brilliant!!!!  Thanks x
 

Sharon and Tracy at last year's 'Back to the 80's Christmas Class

Jan Walsh 
I was first introduced to Jan when I ran my Fitness Fiesta Saturday Masterclasses at LA Fitness last year and from there she started to come along to some of my weekly community classes.  Since then she has been a very regular and loyal class member is always happy, friendly and smiling and despite recent knee surgery continues to be consistently active and willing to give anything a go within her limitations.  This is her story...

Since the 80s I have always been an exercise and keep fit junkie. Hi/Low aerobics, dyna bands, sliding mats and my favourite of all step you name it I tried it, at one point I was doing 9 classes a week until my lower back decided enough was enough. After surgery and a further slipped disc I ground to a halt petrified to almost move. Then in 2003 I discovered pilates and started going albeit tentively twice a week.  It took a while to get the breathing correct and my tummy muscles (those few I had) ached like hell, but my back did seem to get stronger and less stiff. Then a further slipped disc and I was advised to have a fusion operation something which I did not want to do so I stopped the pilates and went back to just walking and the odd dance class.

Then when we moved to Hinchingbrooke just over a year ago we transferred to LA fitness in Huntingdon and it was here that I met Madeleine who in turn introduced me to Mel's Masterclass Extravaganza and I was hooked.  Not only is Mel so professional in her approach to exercise but so knowledgeable in her understanding of joints and fear of injury and she explained how to moderate and slowly build up exercises to minimise any injuries. Before long I was attending two Fitness-Pilates classes and the Thursday night Dance Fitness classes which were always great fun as well as brilliant workouts. Then about 6 months ago my right knee became painful after doing certain movements and eventually I had to stop the dance classes. Knee surgery recommended, I decided to spend a few weeks building up my muscles around my knee.

Mel helped with specific exercises (placing mini ball between knees and squeezing) and I did Fitness Pilates at least four times a week. By the time of my op my knee muscles were a lot stronger which I hoped would speed my recovery. And they did, after a week of limping around and sitting with the frozen peas I decided enough was enough and I very slowly started bending and stretching my knee over the rolled pilates mat. Then I progressed to balancing on my bad leg while clinging onto the banister. After three weeks my consultant agreed that if careful I could resume class. Being nervous I left returning for another week and then contacted Mel who said she would be on hand for any advice/help so taking a deep breath back I came, and haven't looked back.

I am now doing Fitness Pilates /Extra Fitness Pilates at least four times a week and am so enjoying the new Keep Fitness class on a Friday morning. Am looking forward to getting back to the dance class although I think chair dancing may be a little too adventurous as yet! No I still can't do deep squats yet or wide bends and kneeling is awkward without my pillow but I know I am getting there and after each class my knee feels so much easier.
As a further endorsement for Fitness Pilates I have managed to persuade my husband Pat to come along on a Tuesday. He has been a boxing coach for the last twenty years and although is keen on jogging and spinning is so stiff in his back that he fights to get his socks on!!! Although worried about being surrounded by so many females he decided to give it a go and was amazed at how more supple his lower back felt after just one session. His intention is to keep coming and to finally be able to bend over and touch his toes, although NOT by candle light!!!

Thanks Jan and well done to you and Pat too! Mel xxx

Jan in Abdominal toning section of the Keep Fitness DVD 2007

Jan at a Fitness Fiesta at LA Fitness in 2006

Jilly spent the whole month of August out in Malawi on the Malawi Education Link programme.  Four adults and fifteen students carried 47 boxes of donated goods onto a truck, along with their luggage then squashed into a mini-bus and travelled the five-hour journey to the Ngala Lodge, where they stayed for the next four weeks.  Jilly has spent a very long time writing up her experience of her trip in this wonderful report which includes photo's.

PLEASE click HERE to find out more...
 

The Cave Family - Sally, Nicola & Rebecca
Sally (left, in white) first started coming to my Dance Fitness classes that run on a Wednesday morning then she started my Fitness-PUMP classes with her daughter Nicola (right, in black) and during the summer she attended all of my Summer Fit n Fun classes with her other daughter, Rebecca (front, in pink) where they both tried Cheerleading, Bollywood, Salsa & Disco.   Sally also attends my Fitness Nordic Walking classes with a lot of her friends together with an array of sporting activities like golf, tennis, hockey and possibly more...!

Sally comments... "Mel's classes were a fun way to keep fit over the summer and a great way to do something together as mother and daughters which benefited us all, Rebecca especially enjoyed the Grease Dancing class. Classes are well run, fun and always varied and challenging. A good range of times always ensures that a suitable fitness class is available to get to during a busy week and during term time for Nicola who is finding the fitness work is helping her prepare for the canoeing race which will take place next year. Thank you Mel." 

It is a great pleasure Sally and it is brilliant to see you exercise and have so much fun with your children and it is great to see that you, Nicola and Rebecca are willing to give absolutely anything a go too! Mel x

The Emery Family - Sam, Cath & Laura
Cath (middle, in pink) first came to my Dance Fitness classes on a Wednesday night with her daughter Laura (right, in blue).  Then her other daughter, Sam (left, in light blue) started coming with them and now they all come as one big happy family and enjoy this class plus a weekly blast at Fitness-PUMP too.  They are certainly a fun and lively bunch and they definitely keep the classes entertained that's for sure.  The two girls even got dressed up in their fishnets and sassy outfits for a special Shirley Bassey Chair Dance Fitness class last week - you can watch them all in action here...  

Cath goes onto comment "Thanks for the great workouts and we are all really enjoying doing the classes together.  My husband Graham gets a huge chunk of their time on a Saturday when they all go horse riding together, so for years I have been trying to find something to do with them that they will enjoy, and also have the major benefit of maintaining a good fitness level.  I only find shopping gives this much enjoyment and a workout if you go with a loaded purse and walk the streets of London and then carry those wonderful filled heavy bags home...."

I certainly agree with you Cath as I also enjoy the odd trip of shopping as an extra workout to my fitness week!  Keep on smiling, bringing the girls and have a heap of fun in classes too! Mel x

The Daines Family - Jan & Kylie
Smilee Kylie (right, in black) first started coming to my Dance Fitness classes about 2 years ago and still continues to strut her funky stuff and laugh her way through every Wednesday night and she has also appeared in all my dance fitness downloads that I painstakingly make them do (they love it really!). 

Also, this year she entered the Race for Life with her mum, Jan (left, in blue) and they became part of the FitHaven team.   Between them they managed to raise £200 for Cancer Research UK which is just brilliant.

Then straight after the Race for Life, both Kylie and Jan started coming to my Monday night Fitness-PUMP class too.   Kylie's has also done really well with a personal quest to loose some weight as she had to be a bridesmaid twice this summer and she has managed to loose a stone and is well on her way to another half a stone which is absolutely fantastic.

Kylie and Jan comment "Coming to Mel's classes is the highlight of my week, not only do I get a good workout, but I get a great laugh too. I've been coming to Dance Fitness for 2 years, and I love it.  Mel makes it great fun, especially with our recent addition of using chairs, scarves, hats etc. Everyone is so friendly and supportive, I've made some new friends, who I look forward to catching up with at each class. Mum and I recently started Fitness Pump and we love that too, especially as there are other Mother/Daughter groups there.  Mels classes are a great opportunity to get some quality Mother/Daughter time, as well as keeping fit too.

Mum decided that she wanted to try something new, to keep herself active and fit. She met Mel at the Race For Life and decided that she'd like to try a class. The next day we both went along to Fitness Pump. As you can imagine, we both laughed our way through the first class and were hooked. Mum says she enjoys the fact that she can go at her own pace and still enjoy the class, she's already noticing a difference in how her clothes fit her, so she's determined to keep coming to class, get fitter and tone up.   Mel - thanx very much for keeping us fit and healthy!!!

Well done you two - it is really great to see you both in class, having so much fun together! Mel x

Lisa Sparks and Joan Norman
Lisa (right, in red) has been a regular and active class member at my Legs, Bums & Tums, Fitness-Pilates and my Saturday morning masterclasses too.  Back in April, Lisa then asked me if Fitness-Pilates would be a good class for her mum, Joan, (left, in black) who is nearly 70 to attend as they had been going to a yoga class together and as she is still very active wanted to find a class they could come to together that would still keep them toned and stretched.  So ever since then both her and her mum have been regular class participants at my Monday night Fitness-Pilates class too and they always look like they are having a great time, with the new mini-Pilates ball and bands!

Lisa comments "Pilates is a great class for us. It’s something we can take part in together, because we can each work at our own pace and level. It’s a great way to spend time together and keep fit into the bargain."

Thanks Lisa, and it is always great to see both you and your mum in class every week at the front of the class too! Mel x

 

Jean Logan & Julie Champkin
Now, look at this stunning pair in their Back to the 80's lycra gear!!!  Jean (left in black with pink) and her daughter Julie (right, in black) have been coming to my classes for nearly 2 years now and haven't looked back since.  They are lively little pair and always keep the back row in classes entertained that is for sure!  Fitness-Pilates and Legs, Bums & Tums are the favourites but Fitness-Balls has been honoured with their company and my new Keep Fitness class may see their presence too! Here in the photo they took part in my "Back to the 80's" class last Christmas and the other photo is them suited and booted at the Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning they came and supported this.

Jean, who is 68, suffered quite a bad fall this year and has been recovering from a broken wrist but she returned back at the beginning of September and still continues to make it to Monday night Fitness-Pilates with Julie.  And Julie manages to keep on top of a busy family life as well as squeeze in 2 if not 3 sessions every week too.

Julie comments... "As we live near each other we thought it would be nice to do a class together and that's why we started Fitness-Pilates on a Monday night originally at Crosshall Infant School back in January 2006, where I saw your advert. We both wanted to start exercising again as we hadn't done anything for years and we really enjoy it!! "

And Jean went on to comment... "My daughter Julie and I attend Mel's Fitness-Pilates Class on a Monday evening and we really enjoy it. "Keep fit" is something I have always done over the years, whether it be yoga, Legs Bums and Tums or Pilates.  Mel is very positive in her teaching and her classes are full of different age groups and I can honestly say that I have never felt "one of the oldest" in the class.  Mel always advises us to go as far as we can with the exercises and never shows us up in any way.  There could be the odd time during the winter that one might need some encouragement to go out into the cold night to a Keep Fit class but having Julie to go with makes it easier and we encourage each other.  We enjoy the great music and feel so much better for exercising.

Thank you both and you two are always such fun in and out of class and I love our little chats whenever there is a spare moment or two before or after class and thanks for being such fun and keeping everyone else entertained and motivated in class too! Mel x

The UK team have returned from Bangkok, Thailand, having triumphed in the World Transplant Games. We were by far the largest team with 120 athletes, including 23 Juniors, and we joined 1,000 others from 50 countries, all of whom have undergone an organ transplant.

This was my second World Games and was yet another step in an amazing journey through my new life. The heat and humidity of Bangkok made conditions tough in competition but we had great team spirit and supported each other through the downs of tummy and throat bugs, to the ups of succeeding in our sports.

Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana, a patron of Thailand’s Kidney Foundation, declared the Games open at the official opening ceremony. The sporting events of road race, cycling, archery, volleyball, golf, tennis, bowling, swimming, badminton, table tennis, petanque, shooting and athletics, followed over the next 7 days.

All competitors deserved medals and in transplant sport it really is the taking part that counts. However, I’m sure you’ll be interested to hear that the UK team topped the medal table once again with an overall medal tally of 293.

I had a heavy schedule of training and competition days in my chosen sports of Golf, Badminton Singles & Doubles, and Table Tennis Doubles. For my effort, I’ve come home with 1 Gold medal in Table Tennis Doubles, and 3 Silver medals in Golf and Badminton Singles & Doubles, and I’m absolutely delighted.

The Games were difficult and challenging but I wouldn’t have missed it for the World! Your generous sponsorship helped to make this happen for me and I cannot thank you enough for your kind support and friendship.  God willing, I remain fit and healthy and look forward to competing again next year and, who knows, I could be down under with the kangaroos and koala bears in 2009 when the World Games move to The Gold Coast, Australia. Who would have thought it possible when only 5 years ago I was too poorly to even hold a racket! How lucky am I?! I dedicate my medals to my donor.

The aim of Transplant Sport is to raise awareness of the ongoing need for organ donation. If you have been inspired by what you have read and have not yet signed on to the NHS Organ Donor Register, please give it some thought and talk to your loved ones. Over 7,000 people in the UK are currently on the transplant waiting list. For further information on how to register please visit www.uktransplant.org.uk  (go to” Donor Families”) or call 0845 60 60 400. If you have already signed the Register, then I thank you for your forward thinking.

Unfortunately the Thailand website was not accurately updated so please feel free to further check out the UK Transplant website (shown above) which provides the results and lots more information. If you have a spare moment, you can scan through the 3,000+ photos taken at both the British and the World Games this year!

A HUGE HUG OF THANKS to Mel for keeping me fit in her fantastic classes and to everyone at FitHaven for their sponsorship, especially to Frances, Rachel & Lorraine for their amazing fundraising Charity Challenge Week.

Maggie x

 

My Badminton partner Joan, and our friends from Holland

My partner Alison, table tennis success

Outside the arena in Bangkok, Thailand

Barbara Morris
I first met Barbara at Buckden Marina when I used to teach Aqua Aerobics and Fitness-Pilates around 6 years ago.  Barbara used to attend the Aqua class every week and then joined the Fitness-Pilates class.  I then left the Marina to pursue my career with FitHaven and as expected I lost touch with Barbara for a while as she remained a member at The Marina.

Back in December 2006, I got a call from Barbara requesting some Personal Fitness sessions as she had been quite ill and wanted to get back into exercise but wasn't quite sure what and how to go about it.  We met, I went through an initial consultation and had a chat about goals and desires and what she wanted to achieve in her new, active lifestyle.  Her illness had left her feeling a bit weak, lethargic and had taken a bit of confidence away of knowing what was the right thing to do and whether or not a class would be too much. 

During January and after only 3 one to one Fitness-Pilates sessions I set her free into my Beginner Fitness-Pilates class in Buckden and she hasn't looked back.  With 5 months of regular weekly Fitness-Pilates classes under her belt she then decided that she wanted to have a go at something a bit more upbeat and one morning she turned up to my Bollywood class with a friend, and has even tried the Cheerleading session I ran during the summer term.  She has now increased her attendance to 2 Fitness-Pilates classes a week with the possible intention of sharing that with my new Keep-Fitness class in September to fit around her schedule. 

Barbara looks absolutely amazing (especially for her age which you can find out for yourself in her statement below)!  She is always cheerful, smiling and encouraging towards others in the class, especially new comers and as you can see is willing to give anything a go.  I really admire her for her determination and drive to live life to the full, gain quality of life and enjoy exercise again of which she has succeeded whole heartedly with 100% effort.

This is what Barbara had to say...  "After a short illness last year, which left me feeling breathless and with weakened muscles, I joined Mel in January of this year with the aim of improving my quality of life.

I felt that at the age of seventy-two, I needed to do something before it became too much of an effort to get motivated. After a couple of one to one sessions with Mel in her Home Studio, I felt confident enough to join the Pilates class here in Buckden.

From the beginning I began to feel more relaxed and standing straighter and taller as my joints and muscles sorted themselves out under Mel's explicit guidance. I quickly saw an improvement in my flexibility but my balance still needs to be worked on!

I now attend two sessions each week. Mel makes all her classes interesting and enjoyable and her choice of music really suits the exercises. I was able to enjoy her Bollywood sessions, which were both fun and challenging.

Thanks to Mel I have discovered the best anti-ageing treatment ever."

Well done Barbara.  You are a true inspiration and fantastic example to everyone out there, especially those who think they are "too old or ill" to start exercising again.  You have proved that it can be done, it can be fun, whatever your age, ability and level.
 

So far, the team has managed to raise £1024 (and still counting), which is brilliant well done!

Well done and thank you to each and everyone off you who took time out to take part in this years Race for Life in Bedford.  The sun shone brightly, spirits were high, energy was up and between us we power walked, jogged and ran the 5K circuit around the embankment and Russell Park.  Afterwards we enjoyed Neal's famous chocolate brownies followed by a cup of fizz and photo's to capture the memories.  We had a great team of supporters too of husbands, dads, boyfriends and nephews which certainly helped make our day more enjoyable and teamly.  
See you there next year - Mel xxx

Enjoy watching the Race for Life 2007 Montage put together to capture the true spirit of why an event like this is so important for EVERYONE!
Click here to view...
 

Janine Teal
Meet Janine... (another full-on member of the Sawtry Stunners.)  I have known Janine for nearly 2 years and she has been a regular, loyal and super fab class member ever since.  Like me, she also shares a deep love and passion for music, dance and exercise, and she is also not bad at taking a great photo or two.  In fact, she is so good I am now using her photography and videography skills in some of my classes and so far you have seen her fabulous work from my Nordic Walking, Bollywood, Cheerleading and PUMP classes. 

Janine has also introduced me to the wonderful world of YouTube and  inspired me to start up my very own FitHaven YouTube collection of class clips.  For me this is one of the very best ways to help promote and spread the word about my classes!  Janine is also a massive music fan and absolutely loves Take That, Barenaked Ladies, The Scissor Sisters and even Jason Donavon to mention but a few plus she constantly feeds me with music and song ideas for my dance fitness classes. 

Below are a few words and around are some fabulous photo's from the totally mad but extremely lovely lady herself...

"It was January 2006 & I had decided to stop working for a while. Since Summer 2003 I had very slowly lost around 10lb and I was worried that stopping work all together would see me putting it back on! I love walking & cycling but being Winter I needed something indoors to do that was FUN. Jo Lane (aka Sawtry Stunner) suggested I went to a FitHaven Salsa class with her, so on a dark & dreary Thursday evening in January we set off for Buckden.

I seem to remember the song we danced to was Ricky Martin "She Bangs". But whatever it was, I was hooked. 

I've always loved dance & I had been to a dance class in the 90's up north, but it took us weeks to learn a routine to just 1 song - Mel had us all aligned with a full routine in only 45 mins - INCREDIBLE.

So that was it, every Thursday without fail I was there. BUT then when salsa was off the timetable for a week or so I tried the Wednesday dance fitness class to get my fix. I didn't think it possible, but I loved it even more. Despite being 42 yrs old I try & keep in touch with all the modern stuff & the tunes Mel was picking were right up my street.

So I'd rush home after class, download the tune & scribble down the moves, then Jo would turn up a few days later & we'd have a practise in my sitting room. If only you could've see us!!! Well actually now you can because of the magic that is youtube. Now that Mel downloads the routines, if we forget any moves we can refer to the FitHaven videos online - absolutely fantastic!!

I was feeling really wooden & inflexible initially, but 12 months later I felt like I had loosened up & could move a lot more freely & easier. I kept the weight off & lost a bit more, having a lot of fun in the process - RESULT!

Dance has always been a part of my life & thanks to Mel it still is."

Well, all of that just leaves me to say..."Well done Janine and thank you so much for your input, support and fabulous photo taking and let's carry on dancing forever!"

Jo and Janine - An arty shot at the Candyman Dance Fitness class 2007

A very young Janine in what she does best - in fancy dress!

Janine, Mel & Jo - More 80's fancy dress - Christmas 2006!
 

Janine loves Fitness-Cheerleading 2007

The biggest Take That Fan's - Natalie & Janine at the Take That Masterclass 2007

Janine with Lorraine at a special Valentines night Dance Fitness 2007

Janine, Jo, Mel, Lorraine & Sal Bags strut their funky stuff at the Christmas Party 2006

Check out the fishnets, leotard, shell suit and legwarmers...
"Janine's beautiful behind" at the Christmas 80's Aerobics session 2006

Dawn Kemp
First, I have to say congratulations to Dawn and Nick who got married on Saturday 5th May 2007.  It was a very special and perfect day!

About Dawn...  She first came to me as a personal fitness client for extra motivation and advice to get her into the right track of fitness.  We power walked around Southoe and did some strength and toning work on the stability ball in my studio and then I set her free into my world of classes and she hasn't looked back since.  She has truly blossomed in the sessions and is now not afraid to give anything a go.  She even took time out of schedule to come along to the special 80's class I ran at Christmas last year!   Dawn is a mum, with 2 young boys, holds down a job as well as a new husband and life!  However, with all that going on, she always manages to find the time to fit in at least one class a week, if not two and here is her story...

"I first met Mel in May 2005 and initially had one to one sessions so that I could judge my fitness level and see what Mel was like! I needn’t have worried; Mel was friendly and encouraging and made me feel positive about myself. After a few sessions I felt brave enough to try a class, which was Monday evening “Balls and Bands”. Once again Mel was friendly and cheerful and bouncing around on a big blue ball was great fun too!

Basically I have not looked back. I still attend the Monday evening Balls class but have also tried, and enjoyed, Pilates, Power Walking, Fitness by Candlelight and Dance Fitness.

As for the benefits, well basically I feel great! I feel fitter and healthier in general, and I have toned up all over and definitely notice the difference around my tummy, bum and thighs. In fact I have dropped a size in clothes! I also get the “feel good factor” and “buzz” after each class I attend.

Mel is a fantastic, enthusiastic and innovative instructor, who has become a good friend. Her classes are never dull and new classes are always appearing on the timetable.

As for my future with Fithaven? Well long may it continue – I don’t think I will ever tire of Mel and her fun and well planned classes which, with effort and commitment, definitely work and the results are great!"

Dawn - in her 80's get up for Christmas 2006 - loving the leg warmers!

Mel & Dawn - have a photo moment on her wedding day!

Dawn with her two boys, Harry & Charlie, & Nick on a cold  & wet Bank Holiday Power Walk around Southoe for charity!

Striking a pose with the 80's group (Dawn - far left)

Jo Ivell on a Mission...
This is Jo's story about her recent fitness and weight loss mission...

"Looking in my diary, I saw a month without my usual amount of business trips and socialising. I decided this was the perfect time to take action. Only 3 weeks later and after attending three of Mels great classes a week, (Nordic walking, dirty dancing & hi/lo aerobics, working hard and not cheating) I have also changed my eating habits and have chosen to eat 5 small meals a day (2 are fruit) and having a two litre bottle of water on the kitchen top, (that must be gone by bedtime)...

GUESS WHAT - I have lost 10lbs and dropped a jean size (in just 3 weeks).  I am over the moon and feeling really great AND this week I was voted most red, sweatiest person in the class (after Mel of course)!

WHAT MORE COULD I WANT !!!!!! "

You can see Jo in action and her continuing quest to a fitter, healthier and more streamlined body this summer by clicking on the links below...

Jo - Nordic Walking in Southoe
Jo - Dirty Dancing in Buckden   (She is the one in the front row on the right)

Caryl Spurdin
Caryl took part in this year's Playtex MoonWalk to raise money for Breast Cancer research...  Here are her comments about her fabulous efforts after the Monday morning Fitness-Pilates class just one day after the event... 

"I am feeling really great and you wouldn't know that I had walked 26.2 (don't forget the .2!. That's the bit that seems to go on for ever!) miles. No blisters, aches or pains - going to your Pilates class on Monday really helped to stretch-out. Just got some sore bits below my bra-line where the decoration rubbed! Oooow!!!  My bra was really fab (even if I say so myself!). It had lights, beads, fur, and sequins on it. Looked like a cross between something a belly dancer would wear or something you would buy from Ann Summers! :-)."   One for the Bollywood class then Caryl...!

"I completed the MoonWalk in 6 hours 14 minutes and 4 seconds. I have raised over £250, by people offering to sponsor me when they heard what I was doing."

Well done Caryl for this fabulous effort and if any of you would like to make a donation then please give it to me or Caryl when you see her in class, which is usually on a Monday or Friday morning.

Maggie Gambrill
My first report on Maggie's progress this year from her forthcoming Transplant Games season.  The money that will raised earlier in the year will help her take part in these events which are entirely self funded.  Here is the first one...

Event: Transplant Badminton Tournament
Date: Saturday 21 April 2007
Venue: Gateshead, Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Maggie entered the Ladies Doubles and Ladies Singles in the Vets (veterans!) category and won the Gold Medal in both events. Her Ladies Doubles partner, Joan Bell, is a kidney transplant from London Barts Hospital, and they have played together since her first British Games in 2004.  It was a hard fought competition and she had to dig deep, particularly in the Singles matches. She surprised herself with her determination and fitness - and put it down to all the Pilates and Dirty Dancing that she has been doing!!

Onwards & upwards now to Edinburgh in July for the British Transplant Games and then to Thailand in August for the World Games.
 

Brenda Townend
(My Mum!)
Meet my Mum, Brenda! This is her story about a 3 stone weight loss, a drop in 4 dress sizes in 5 months, and a return back to fitness and a new lease of energy & life! My mum was always an outgoing, fit and healthy person but a lengthy episode of depression & anxiety led her to weight gain, loss of energy and severe on-going joint pain in her back, knees & shoulders. However, after combating the anxiety and feeling more like her old self she could see and feel how the extra stones and pounds were making her feel fat, unhealthy and ill but also difficult to enjoy times with her young grandson and enjoy her love in shopping for clothes!

She had reached a dress Size 22/24 (she is only 5ft 3”) and felt lethargic, flabby and out of breath! After seeing photo’s from a family birthday celebrated last September 2006, continual ongoing health problems and constant nagging from me and my sister, she could see and feel that something really had to be done. She doesn’t live near me so she couldn’t attend any of my weekly classes so I did some research and found a diet and exercise class near her that I though she would be interested in – and she was!

In November last year she started her local fitness and weigh-in class (weighing in at 13stone 11lbs) as well as monitoring her diet which converted to a low GI and low fat plan (one which both Neal and I follow). She started to attended and enjoy her weekly aerobic or salsa class and followed a Low GI & fat eating plan religiously. She also started to come to my monthly Fiesta masterclasses and could see how trying different exercises was not only fun, especially the pole dancing would allow her to enjoy those extra treats like wine & chocolate!

This month (April 2007) she has very proudly lost 3 stone and 1lb in weight (now weighing in at 10 stone & 10 lbs), feels much more energetic, enjoys playing with her lively grandson as well as taking long country walks.  The pressure has eased drastically off of her joints, including relieved back and knee pain, and she has loved shopping for a new wardrobe and is now proudly fitting into a Size 14 jeans. Not only that, she has introduced her Low GI eating food plan into the household and my Dad has been losing weight too and feels healthier, more energetic and snores less!

I am not just choosing my Mum because she is my Mum, but I think she is such a brilliant inspiration and example to all of us especially our “Active Aging”  population (my Mum is 66), as she has shown that even in your prime ages, making a few simple but positive changes in your fitness and food intake can change your life, energy and dress size for good.  I never thought I would see my Mum enjoy life again especially when she was severely depressed and suffering from pains in her back, knee and shoulders. But, as a family we took the time and did all we could to encourage her that being active, fit and healthy can make you feel and look fabulous every day!

To see her now enjoy a long countryside walk with my Dad, joining me and my sister at a masterclass, Dirty Dancing, Pole Dancing, enjoying active times with a lively 6 year old grandson, plus taking an interest in the food that we eat is just amazing and she should be so proud of herself for this great achievement over the past 3 months. No-one is more proud of her than me, Neal, my sister and my Dad – so well done Mum from all of us!!!

Mum with a pair of XXL trousers she wore last year!

Me & Mum - Take That & Party Masterclass - Feb 2007

Lindsey, Mum & Me - after a Fitness Fiesta in November 2006

Mum at a family birthday celebration in September 2006!

Jilly Clarke (aka The Sawtry Stunner)

Jilly has been coming to my classes for a year now, and in that time she has lost 2 stone in weight (without dieting) which is fantastic and has changed (in her words...) from a hunched and tired 45 year old into an upright, happy 46 year old, with a spring in her step!  Jilly is a part of the Sawtry Stunner Brigade and she has tried every single one of my classes from Pilates to Pole Dancing and makes it to at least 4-6 classes every single week.   When I found out a little bit more about Jilly and her life outside of Fithaven I just had to let you all know what amazing things she is and will be taking on this coming summer.  So, in my eyes, she really is a true inspiration to us all so please take the time read all about her and her Malawi quest!   Well done Jilly and here's to the next 12 months...!

Jilly comments...

"I first met Mel at a Fitness Fiesta held a Wyboston Lakes. A friend had suggested I went along. I had been unwell and the thought of any sort of fitness was the last thing on my mind. I went along and enjoyed it so much, I became hooked! It changed my life!

While my sons were at home, I decided I needed a hobby so I chose an Open University degree. After nine years of study I had ended up with a MA in Eighteenth Century Literature and a Postgraduate Certificate in Asperger Syndrome through Sheffield Hallam. ‘Brainy’ I may have appeared but I had put on over three stones in weight.

Eating healthily is something I have always done, although I have to admit to enjoying my wine but the weight had crept on and I had become more and more lethargic. My studies over, I began to sit in a chair at night and stare at the television. I went to bed tired and got up feeling the same way. I had lost my spark!

I work as a Teaching Assistant at a secondary school, where I specialise in Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). My work is varied, and at times intense. People ask why I haven’t gone into teaching, and it is something I have at times considered but the challenge of working with young people with an ASD within mainstream school, and their families, is what I really enjoy. I found myself, however, lacking energy in this role.

Meeting Mel has changed all this. Reading her leaflet and ‘willing’ myself to go to all of her evening slots, I began the Tuesday night session of Bums and Tums. It was great! Before long I had joined the Wednesday night dance session and the Thursday night Salsa. The Flexible Fitness soon followed and it was then that I felt my body change. I was standing taller and racing round school. Something I hadn’t done in quite a while. Now, if commitments allow, I go to six of Mel’s lessons, having added two Pilates sessions into my week.

Mel is brilliant! Her enthusiasm, encouragement and advice have been tremendous. The sessions are fun and it really doesn’t matter if you make the wrong move. I have also been lucky in the fact my friends ‘The Sawtry Stunners’ are with me. Sharing lifts and texting to make sure we are going to the sessions has been great, especially through the winter when the dark nights encourage us to sit in front of the fire.

This year I shall be going out to Malawi for one month to work on educational and health projects as part of a charity called Malawai Education Link (M.E.L.).  There will be two teams from Hinchingbrooke School, consisting of team leaders and 40 year 11 students. My team, Team 2, will be going out 3 August. All team members have to fund their own costs but make a commitment to fund-raise for the projects. Last year (M.E.L.) raised over £13,000, which allowed classrooms to be completed, a head teacher’s house to be built, along with the building of a new primary school on the Sugar Hill Estate, where previously, children had had to walk a very busy road to go to a more distant school. In the past over 30 children had been killed on this road.

Fund-raising has kept the teams busy and it is hoped that this year we will reach our target of £15,000. There are many events up and coming and thanks to Mel, she has kindly added the link to some of these.

Charity Auction for M.E.L.
Please click on the link above and feel free to make a bid in the auction or attend one of our events. We shall be holding an Indulgence Evening in the beautiful rooms of Hinchingbrooke House on Monday 30 April. Otherwise, if you have any old mobiles, cameras or solar powered calculators, or are able to donate old spectacles, sunglasses, or can give pens and pencils, all items will be taken out to Malawi with us and gratefully received and Mel has agreed to take any of your items to give to me.

Not sure what I shall do when I am back in September. I am considering returning to my studies with Sheffield Hallam. There is one thing that is certain, however, I shall continue to attend Mel’s fitness sessions. Thanks Mel!"

Jilly & Shelley - marshalling an all night fun run in the rain

 Photo's from Malawi supplied by Jilly & M.E.L.




 

Lorraine Harte
The original "80's" Workout Girl!!!!

Now, when I say the original "80's" girl - I really mean it.  There is not one class that goes by without Lorraine sporting a traditional 80's-style outfit - and she looks brilliant!!!  I know the 1980's is making a bit of a come back, both in fashion and in exercise, but Lorraine really did keep hold of the workout gear from this era and has pleasure in sporting thonged leotards, hot-pants, shell suits, cycling shorts and headbands too! (Only I wear the legwarmers!)   

Not only that, but she makes it onto the FitHaven Hall of Fame because she brings so much passion, humour and whit into every class - guaranteed! She always has a laugh with other class members and myself and has made fun fitness a firm favourite on her weekly schedule. She is one of the "Sawtry Stunners" (although she lives in Hamerton but that is close enough) and makes the A1 southbound journey every Wednesday and/or Thursday night to Dance Fit, Chillout and Salsacise too!   Keep the 80's alive, Go for the burn Lorraine and well done!  This is what she has to say...

Fithaven – What's in it For Me (WIIFM)!
I cannot actually remember how I first came across Fithaven – or should I say Mel. But my first class (Stageworks Buckden) was a pilates class.

I knew very little about Pilates.  Wasn’t it something about inside out..? but figured the best way to find out more was to go and join in.  I have always been interested in fitness, evolving through the years of aerobics and step, occasional dance classes and the dreaded weights and gym.

I cannot remember much about that first class…. other than I was hooked.  Mels approach was different to other classes I had been to… I couldn’t quite put my finger on it….. I was getting access to a first class trainer, in a friendly personal environment, right here on my own doorstep. Fantastic.

Wednesday nights have now become sacrosanct in my schedule.
No matter what I am working around first priority on a Wednesday night is my double Fithaven Fun Fix.  I love the lively energetic dance class, followed by the more tranquil stretch relaxation class, especially with candles.  In dance I spend a good proportion of time laughing wondering why I seem to be the one with coordination problems, no matter, coordination has improved over time….

Is levitation out of the question in our relaxation class, I challenge Mel?

I really enjoy and benefit from all of Mels classes, whether its salsa, flexibility or toning. No matter what has gone on during the day or week, Mels class is one place I know I will have fun, chat with great people and come away feeling relaxed and invigorated – ready to take on the next challenge.  Mels positive attitude and unique approach in class structure and combination of different training and exercise styles is a winner for me.  Not only do I have fun, I have lost weight, toned up my body and improved my fitness levels.

I am sure I am not the only one who is a great advocate of Fithaven….oh, and as for putting my finger on the difference …I put a lot of it down to the Miracle Mel Factor. Thanks!

Lorraine - after the Masterclass - Jan 2007

Lorraine - having fun at the Christmas Party - Dec 2006!!!!

My Marvellous "Men on Mats" 2006!
My quest continues to get more "MEN" to sample and stick to my classes in 2007 so to help please read about my 3  dedicated, keen spirited and courageous men who make it to either a Fitness Pilates or Flexible Fitness class, week in week out, amongst all us women (which must be awful) and take lots of stick (from me!).  However, despite all of this they make the time, effort and energy to unroll their mats and take to the floor whatever the weather or class holds for them.  For all different reasons, this is why they find coming to classes good for their body, mind & muscles.  So, well done, Dave, Alan & Tony and let's hope other men out their will be inspired to join you in 2007! It's not just for the girls you know!

Dave Sharpe - Flexible Fitness
Dave came to my Fitness Yoga class (as I called it then) about 2 years ago as his guitar teacher recommended that he take up Yoga to improve his posture and promote a more relaxed style of classical guitar playing as there are some classical guitar techniques that are quite impossible to achieve without being totally relaxed. So that is how he came to my weekly class and has been coming ever since, without fail.  In fact the class wouldn't be the same without Dave, and his sharpe(!) wit and blue mat!  Dave comments... "The mix of fitness disciplines, including Yoga, that you have put together works for me. Posture, general fitness and relaxation have all improved; though I sometimes think, forget the pain of posture and fitness - just give me the relaxation!!! As to whether my guitar playing has improved.....well you must ask my long suffering teacher."  Dave is the father of Ben Sharpe who is also a regular Flexible Fitnesser and was Member of the Month back in July 2005.   Scroll down to read and "see" more about Ben below!!!

Alan Lewy - Flexible Fitness & Pilates
Alan has been coming to both a Fitness-Pilates class and a Flexible Fitness classes for well over a year now.  He came along with his wife, Steph, one evening and has been coming ever since.  He had a dodgy back problem and tight hamstrings that prevented him playing his beloved football.  So his wife, who is a PE teacher and knows all about these things, recommended a dash of FitHaven to help.  So, he bought a mat, bought a band and now you can't keep him away.  Alan usually gets just as much ear & body bashing as Dave does on a Wednesday night - but he loves it!   Alan goes on to comment... "I have been coming to Mel's classes for a year now, before I started I'd had problems with my back and hamstrings which had prevented me from playing football for a whole season. I'm glad to say that I'm now back playing football, and more flexible than ever. All thanks to Mel and her Flexible Fitness classes"  Steph and Alan also joined us on a very rainy and cold Charity Fitness Walk back in May (hence the red rain-hoody on Steph in the photo) and they are due to have their first baby in about 8 weeks so they are both looking forward to that too!

Tony Hall - Fitness Pilates
Tony has been coming to my Tuesday evening Fitness-Pilates classes for nearly 6 months now and has been the ONLY man at this class for a long while now.  Despite this, he puts up with all our womanly moans, groans and humour and just gets on with it! And we have to admire him for that!!!  Tony first contacted me as he, as many people do, suffer with a bad back and was recommended Pilates by a physio.  His wife, Caroline, also attends my Fitness-Pilates on a Monday night and she also comments on the improvements Pilates has made to his back and life!  Here is a really lovely email I received from Tony not so long ago...  "Hi Mel, I thought I would just drop you a thank you. Yesterday I really did feel rubbish, I left home before 7.00am, worked all day without a break and left late to come to your class. My back has been pretty bad since coming back from holiday and for most of last week and all weekend I have had sciatic pain in my bum, knee and calf so add that to being knackered it wasn't the best of days. I did struggle a bit in class this week and felt pretty gloomy by the time I got back to Catworth but this morning......I feel fine! My pain has largely gone, I don't feel stiff even after your sadistic leg lifts and overall I feel a whole lot better so thank you so much. I have my regular Chiropractic appointment next week and last time she (Vicky at St Neots Clinic) said my core strength was noticeably better - I was beginning to think I couldn't get through this week without her yanking me about but they had no free appointments - you seem to have fixed me instead! So, Pilates is good and so are you, it must be that or the scary Halloween eyeball I had on the way home :)"  So, as you can read here Tony is a real inspiration to all you men and lots of women too out there who are thinking on taking the plunge - JUST DO IT! 
 

Alan Lewy & Dave Sharpe
(Looking chilled after a Flexible Fitness Class on a Wednesday night)

Ben Sharpe (Dave's son) practices the Crow Pose - very difficult!!!

Alan (back-right in blue!) also took part in a Fitness-Walk for charity on a rainy Bank Holiday in May with his wife Steph (back-left red hoody!)

Tony Hall - at Little Paxton Village Hall - practices Fitness Pilates

(Rachel) Perkins & her Pointers...!

Rachel has been coming to me every Monday since April for her weekly fix of FitHaven with Mel Thomas together with the odd class here or there for good measure.  She first approached me to help motivate her to get fitter, loose a bit of weight and generally feel better about herself as she battles with her condition (read below) and this the reason why I am choosing Rachel this month.  Despite dealing and coping with Colitis she has to endure many pitfalls along the way, which includes copious visits to a specialist, steroid injections and food monitoring.  However, through all of this she still manages to maintain her good wit, determination and sheer madness!  On top of this she holds down her full-time business - Simply Vanilla, rides 2 horses every day, walks her two gorgeous dogs twice a day plus all the other housey, wifey stuff one has to do too!  She may also be running in the London Marathon next year and is just waiting to find out.  So, together with Billy and Bertie I congratulate Rachel and long may you brighten up my Monday mornings with laughter, fitness & lots of mud!  This is what she had to say...

"Every Monday Billy, Bertie and I drive to an undisclosed location in Southoe for one-to-one sessions with Mel. Come rain or shine we’re there raring to go, there really is no better feeling than being outside in the fresh air, it lifts the spirits and adds colour to your cheeks.

For me one-to-one sessions aren’t about trying to achieve a bootie like Beyonce or arms like Madonna it’s all about looking after myself and being healthy. I look around and find we are bombard by magazines containing articles on who weighs what, who has cellulite, who has perhaps put on a pound or two, what diet fad we should be following. Admittedly, a few years ago I read these articles with interest, perhaps followed a few diets which weren’t designed with my best nutrition interests at heart, I smoked (a lot) and had an extremely stressful job with long unsociable hours. I then went to work one day and found myself suddenly at lunchtime loosing vast amounts of blood from my bowels, frightened and confused I was taken to hospital. From that point and really overnight my lifestyle had to change as I found I had Ulcerative Colitis, this is when your body becomes allergic to your bowel lining, apparently it’s hereditary, not that I know of anyone in my family who has it, however bowels are such a taboo subject.

So what next, well I’m a great believer that food is the best natural healer you can find and my diet has changed dramatically. It really is incredible that what you put in your mouth really does affect your well being, your mood and energy levels. I saw a nutritionist called Jane Clarke and she really opened my eyes on how food is so important, I also read every article and every book I could lay my hands on, I don’t think there isn’t much I don’t know on the digestive system!!

Is there a moral to this story well yes, exercise goes hand in hand with diet you really cannot have one without the other to keep yourself healthy, get yourself equipped as best you can as you can never be sure what’s around the corner."

Read all about colitis and it's effects here - www.nacc.org.uk
Read all about Jane Clarke and her BodyFoods here - www.bodyfoods.com

Billy & Bertie after their workout!

Another smashing shot of Billy (oh and Rachel!)

Billy!

Bertie, Rachel & Billy

Gillie Cozens & Jill Doake
I first met Gillie as a  Personal Fitness client in April 2005 and then she started to attend my Monday evening Fitness-Pilates sessions together with Jill.  Both of them bring fun, light and laughter into the class and in there own different ways deserve to be my FitHaveners of the Month.  They come to class each week from Coton, near Cambridge - which is a fair way - and their party trick is getting lost most weeks too!!! 

Gillie has amazing whit and brilliant use of words (as you can see from the poem below) and I love her dearly as she always complains when the exercises get too tough.  Jill, like Gillie is always smiling, but unlike Gillie NEVER complains about the going getting tough and has amazing energy too as for the first time this year walked the Moon Walk - 26 miles around London at night, which is no mean feat!  Congratulations Ladies - and thank you so much for keeping my Monday nights alive!

Gillie Cozens
I first met Mel in April 2005 when I came to her in need of a ‘complete body makeover’ before my youngest daughter’s wedding that summer.  I make the half-hour journey each week because she’s very good at her job.  This is a tribute to her professionalism and energy...

Poetry in Motion

We met in a room with mirrored wall;
I was invited to sit on a ball!!
We talked of ‘shoulder rolls’ and ‘abs.’,
‘Control’ and ‘buttocks’ – (strange vocab.)!
Nevertheless, I thought Mel was OK
So maybe, after all, I’d stay.

Once a week I’d be inspired
To ‘stretch’ and ‘squeeze’ and go home tired!
Then the weather changed – oh my!
Power Walking – give it a try!
Off she went, her feet would fly
I’d follow – but I thought I’d DIE!

I practiced every week at home,
My husband listened to me groan,
But slowly, surely, here and there
I jumped up quicker from my chair!
I walked the dog and felt so well
And I owed it all to Mel!

Her class is full of motivation,
To watch her is an inspiration!
She’s like a dancer, full of grace,
But she sets a brutal pace!
Woe betide you if you slack,
She sees you – even at the back!

Now every week, come this or that,
I brace myself to ‘face the mat’!
At my great age it might be said,
“But what’s the point; you’ll soon be dead? -
Just stay on the sofa curled!”
But I wouldn’t miss it for the world!

Gillie Cozens - Age with-held

Jill Doake
I travel half an hour from Coton to Mel's classes because I think pilates is a wonderful form of exercise but needs to be exceptionally well taught. Mel gives just the right amount of information at just the right time to help us all do the exercises properly. She is also very cheerful and encouraging. The classes have a lovely atmosphere: friendly and relaxed - like stepping into a warm bath after a hard day at work. Mel and Neal are always very welcoming and it is sheer delight to watch Mel at work - sometimes we dare hope that given time and practice we too might look like her.
 

Gillie & Jill - something is funny?

Gillie & Jill - Feeling the workout!
Photo's taken after a Monday night class!

Sue Foley

 Sue is the FitHaven of the Month due to her outstanding efforts for raising the most amount of money (£500) for partaking in this year's Race for Life in Bedford.  I first met Sue when I was a regular studio instructor at Harpers, Wyboston Lakes.  Although don take classes there any more she still attends my masterclasses and workshops that I run either at Harpers or now LA Fitness and has always kept in touch.  This is her story as to why and how she did it...

"I got married last year in June because Dave, my partner of 16 years became very ill with cancer in his mouth so we needed to legalise everything in case anything bad happened. Well, as you can imagine we had a horrendous year in and out of hospital for massive surgery and loads of radiotherapy etc, and we made a pledge that when we got to the first wedding anniversary we would throw a big party to celebrate. So, at this party in June I manage to collect £357 towards my 'race for life' and have also received a huge amount of sponsors from people at my work and my partners work too.  So that's how come I managed to collect the amount I did and also and more importantly am very pleased to say that Dave is making a fabulous recovery. So, all in all it has been one big journey and roller coaster ride.