“Fitness changed my life,” says new health club manager after 11 stone weight loss

The new director of Anytime Fitness Club in Bedford hopes to inspire others to make fitness a part of their lives, after discovering that a passion for exercise has completely changed her own life.

Zaynah Musa had barely set foot in a gym before 2015 and his physical and mental health suffered as his weight hit 24 stones.

“I know how intimidating it can be to take that first step into fitness,” Zaynah told the Independent from Bedford.

“Mentally, going to the gym saved my life. It wasn’t just about losing weight, it was about bonding with the people and the community that I found there. “

In her new role at Anytime Fitness in Riverside Bedford, Zaynah is eager to support the health of the local community and has exciting plans for the club, including charity events and working with local businesses to improve wellness and health. physical fitness of their staff.

Zaynah, who has management experience at gym supplier Xercise4Less, will oversee the day-to-day running of the club, which has seen its members register thousands of visits since it reopened in mid-April.

“I am delighted to be able to begin this role at a time when our personal health is more important than ever,” Zaynah said.

“The reopening of the gyms in April was a real boost for everyone and it has been great to meet our members over the past two weeks.

“We have a very welcoming and friendly spirit within the club and as part of my role I really want to get more involved in the local community and help people experience the benefits of physical activity.”

In 2015, Zaynah was headed for a diagnosis of diabetes. She knew that by tackling her weight she could turn the tide and became determined to invest time in herself.

Barely six months after joining a gym, health and fitness had become an integral part of her life that she realized that this was the career for her. Zaynah enrolled in a Personal Training and Sports Science degree at the University of Bedfordshire and brings those qualifications to her new role.

“I started to eat better and the endorphins released by going to the gym stopped the desire to overeat,” she said. “I didn’t see the results immediately, but I felt better right away. It helped me keep trying and had a huge impact on my confidence. “

In 13 months, Zaynah has lost over 11 and a half stones and said, “I hope people find my story relatable and see that it is never too late to start a fitness journey and get the results. results you want. “

Zaynah’s plans for the gym include reaching out to the community to support local and international causes.

“This Wednesday (June 16) we will be providing free bottled water and free gym day passes to raise funds for MAP (Medical Aid Palestine) while helping the Sikh community here in Bedford in celebrating their annual ‘Chabeel Day of Sewa,’ explained Zaynah.

“We are planning a ‘spinathon’ challenge to generate a friendly rivalry between businesses in Riverside Bedford and will be offering free wellness and health assessment days to their staff to get a checkup.”

Anytime Fitness Bedford opened in early 2018 and is one of the city’s many independent businesses. Members have 24/7 access, group exercise classes and access to exclusive online content.