“I’d Never Been to a Gym”: Pauline’s Story

Walking into a gym for the first time can feel daunting. Pauline knows that feeling well.

When she joined The Transformation Rooms in Kirkby Stephen at 68, nearly 69, she had never been to a gym or used gym equipment before. She enjoyed walking and cycling, but personal training was something new.

In our first episode of A Mile With Matt, Pauline joins Matt for a walk and an honest conversation about starting out, discovering her strength, returning after a setback and finding a community.

Taking that first step

Pauline had recently retired when she spotted an advert for TTR on Facebook. There wasn’t a dramatic turning point behind her decision. She was following a familiar routine and decided to find out more about something opening locally.

That didn’t mean she felt confident.

“I was nervous because I didn’t know what to expect,” she explains.

Her first step was a conversation with Chris about her goals, her experience and what she wanted to achieve. Having someone listen and explain things clearly helped put her at ease before training began.

Starting at her own level

Pauline still remembers wondering whether she could manage her first session. Alongside the unfamiliar equipment, her age was on her mind.

Training began with resistance bands, giving her a manageable introduction to exercise. She also bought some to use at home — and discovered they fitted nicely into a suitcase for her holidays.

Gradually, movements that once seemed unfamiliar became things she could do with confidence.

One example stands out: the plank. When younger friends first encouraged her to try one, Pauline remembers barely being able to hold the position. Over time, she built up to more than a minute.

“If you’d have said that to me at that particular time, I would have said, ‘No chance.’”

Feeling the difference outside the studio

For Pauline, progress includes everyday tasks feeling easier.

She describes feeling stronger and more confident, with bending, reaching and picking things up becoming more manageable. Practising movements in her sessions has helped her recognise how she uses them in daily life.

Training also sits alongside a busy schedule. Pauline volunteers with the Cumbria Voluntary Car Scheme, looks after her grandchildren, enjoys walking and cycling, and makes plenty of time for holidays.

Her story shows how training can become part of a full life.

Rebuilding confidence after a setback

Pauline’s journey hasn’t been straightforward throughout. After breaking her upper arm, she had a lengthy period away from training.

When she was able to return, she describes almost starting from scratch. This time, she understood more about the exercises, but she was frightened of hurting her arm again.

Having a coach beside her made a difference. She could ask questions, check her technique and get support as she gradually rebuilt.

Pauline is open about the fact that her arm still presents challenges. She’s also able to recognise the progress she has made.

“Although I’m not back where I was, I’m getting there.”

The people who help you keep going

When Matt asks about the role of the coaches and other members, Pauline’s answer is clear:

“I couldn’t have done it without them.”

She talks about encouragement during sessions, support from the coaching team and the friendships she has formed. Social events and conversations have become a valued part of her experience.

Sometimes, she explains, another person saying “Come on, you can” gives her the boost she needs.

Pauline’s advice: come and have a chat

Asked what she would say to someone sitting on the fence about getting started, Pauline doesn’t hesitate:

“Jump off the fence. Come and join us. Come and have a chat.”

She encourages people to discuss their own needs and experience with the trainers. Having once wondered whether she could do it herself, she now has years of experiences, friendships and achievements to look back on.

Thank you, Pauline, for sharing your story and being our first guest on A Mile With Matt.

Watch the full conversation

There’s plenty more in the episode, including Pauline’s holiday adventures, her experience of nutrition support and the moments that have made her proud.

If Pauline’s story sounds familiar and you’d like to find out about training with Team TTR, get in touch. We’d love to hear what you want to achieve and answer your questions.