Getting active can feel intimidating. One might feel they need to be fitter, stronger have different habits or even look a certain way before joining a class.
Fitness instructor Tracy wants people to know that is simply not true.
Tracy is the founder of Fun, Fit and Fabulous, a community fitness group helping older adults across East Lindsey improve their strength, balance and confidence. Despite being a qualified over-50s fitness instructor, Tracy describes herself as a “yo-yo exerciser” and “yo-yo dieter”.
“I’d love to be the perfect influence to people, even though I’m not a youngster and not a size 10”.
Her honesty is what draws many individuals to her classes.
What is a yo-yo exerciser?
Tracy uses the term “yo-yo exerciser” to describe someone whose activity levels naturally go up and down throughout life.
This means that you might be exercising regularly for a period, then life gets busy and fitness takes a back seat. Later, when the time feels right, you find your way back to being active again.
For Tracy, that’s been her experience.
Over the years she has taken part in marathons, an ultra-marathon, triathlons and open water swimming. But when she got three dogs, much of her focus shifted and exercise became less of a priority.
It’s a story many people can relate to. Work, family commitments, caring responsibilities and everyday life can all impact how active we are.
The important thing is remembering that it’s never too late to start again.
Rediscovering a love for movement
After qualifying four years ago as an over-50s fitness instructor, Tracy rediscovered her passion for moving more and helping others do so to feel better.
Today she delivers Fun, Fit and Fabulous classes five times a week across East Lindsey, supporting people to improve their strength and mobility in a welcoming and supportive environment. Physical activity can also help restore positive mental health and Tracy is aware that people may need support to gain confidence and is a strong believer that exercise should be available to everyone.
She also continues to develop her knowledge and skills through regular training and professional development.
More than just exercise
The social side of being active is just as important as the physical benefits.
Alongside her classes, Tracy hosts monthly coffee socials at The Ashby, West Ashby, where participants can make friends and support one another.
Everyone is welcome
One of Tracy’s most important messages is that you don’t have to look a certain way or have a certain level of fitness to get involved. Taking the step through the door is the hardest part but we have lovely communities that are supportive of each other. Have Fun, Get Fit and Feel Fabulous!
“Recently someone said they can’t come because of their wobbly bits. Many of us have wobbly bits. We are mature people and we need to love what we have.”
Her classes are open to everyone, with no membership required and you simply pay as you go.
Find activities near you with Lets Move Lincolnshire
If Tracy’s story has inspired you to move more, remember that you don’t have to do it alone.
Use the Lets Move Lincolnshire Activity Finder to explore activities in your area and find a way to move that works for you.