Shape up at outdoor exercise session

IF you’re looking to get fit in a friendly and organised environment then ‘Shape Up Saturday’ could be just what you’re looking for.

The event, being held next Saturday (August 7) in West End Park, March, has been organised by personal trainer Amy West with full approval from the Fenland District Council.

The session, which runs from 9:30am-3:30pm, encourages 16 years olds and over of any fitness level to exercise for the day while learning new ways to keep fit. It is hoped that those who attend will gain the motivation and belief to keep active in the future.

Organiser Amy West said: “It’s going to be a day of having fun and learning new exercises. Gym’s are getting a bit old hat in one sense and exercising outdoors is a pleasure. Plus you can burn more calories outdoor too.

“I’m doing this to get more people doing exercise and getting fit. These type of things go on in London and they can cost up to �100 each to take part.

“Shape Up Saturday will give people the chance to experience a session with a personal trainer, away from the gym, and without the hourly charge.”

The day costs �25 per-person although a �5 reduction is offered for everyone who turns up with another friend. A welcome pack will be given to all who attend before circuits, boxercise and ab workouts will be under-taken. Each exercise will be tailored to suit specific needs so all participants can be catered for.

She said: “Some may have run marathon’s and others may just be starting to exercise. People will be at different levels so I encourage people to go at their own pace.

“I will push people as that’s my job but if people need a break then I obviously allow that.”

Despite being held in an outdoor venue the personal trainer is only looking to work with a small group. This will give the event a more personal feel and prevent it from turning into a standard exercise class.

Miss West added: “If there are too many numbers then people just won’t get the best out of the session.

“It’s vital that people book places before Monday 2 August as there are only a few spaces left. I work better with smaller numbers as I can then work one-on-one with people and they can get more out of it.”

Amy, who graduated from Nottingham Trent University with a 2:1 (Hons) degree in Sport and Exercise Science, is eager for the day to be a success. The motivated fitness fanatic understands some people’s apprehension about exercising but aims to change their mind at the session.

The personal trainer said: “I encourage people to come with a friend as some can find exercise a bit daunting at first and I understand that.

“We’re going to do a few games too so it’s going to be fun and not just all about hard work. I’m also keen to expel some of the myths I hear on a day-to-day basis about exercise. Exercise can and should be about having fun.

“The Fenland District Council are supporting the event because they understood how important health and fitness is. If it’s a success then I am sure we can make it a regular thing.”

Anyone wishing to book one of the remaining places or gain further information about the event should contact Amy West on 07882266583 or by e-mail at personaltraining@amywest.co.uk. Alternatively her new website can be visited at www.amywest.co.uk