Member Q&A with Cherie

Cherie joined Ascend Fit when we first launched.

From day one, she's put her hand up for pretty much everything we throw her way – from 6 Week Challenges to workshops to participating in events like Spartan and TrailNav.

She also spearheads our Ascend Fit Run Club every Wednesday morning.

Can you tell us more about your health and fitness journey - where you were and where you are now?

Before starting at Ascend Fit, we’d just come out of lockdown, and I’d put on 10kg (roughly). I started to sort my nutrition out first and then, once I heard about Ascend Fit, decided to finally get back into a gym/fitness atmosphere – the nutrition side was making me skinnier, but I wanted to be fitter. 

Before joining Ascend Fit, what made you hesitant or scared about joining a gym?

I didn’t really know what exercises I needed to do. I was hesitant about joining a typical gym as I knew I would flounder and spend more time in the gym thinking about what I needed to do or worried what other people would think. Ascend Fit essentially took the thinking out of it so that I could focus on getting fitter and getting a good workout in. 

How did you overcome those fears?

I did the trial week which was a good introduction to the gym and the classes. But it was the other members that were super supportive that alleviated the fear. They helped me realise that everyone is always at different stages of their fitness journey, and I just had to focus on what I needed to do. 

What advice would you give to people who might be battling with the same fears?

Don’t compare yourself to anyone other than yourself. Show up for yourself, track your own improvements (even if very small), ditch the scales and focus more on how your clothes fit. 

What does being healthy mean to you?

Being healthy means I am more positive, productive, goal orientated and generally in a better mental state. 

What motivates you to work on your health and fitness?

I do believe in balance and that life is too short to keep to a strict diet. Therefore, to eat all the treats and drinks, I need to get to the gym!

What’s been your proudest accomplishment so far on your health and fitness journey?

Completing the Spartan Super Race in Fiji. (Non-filtered answer: I have a booty and dope upper body now hahahaha!)

Do you have any goals you’re working towards right now?

I have never really enjoyed running but have seen a huge improvement in my fitness over the last 2 years so I’m gradually building up my endurance to enter a half marathon in 2024. 

How has Ascend Fit helped you on your health and fitness journey?

Absolutely changing my body composition – strength training has built muscles I never knew I had, the cardio classes have improved my overall fitness level, and through the skills classes, I’ve developed a range of skills I can use for obstacle course racing. 

What keeps you committed to your health and fitness?

Looking back on where I started and where I am now, it makes me super excited about where I’ll be in another year’s time. I'm committed to the process and what my body can accomplish over time, rather than focusing on a small timeframe.