Member of the Month

Cassandra Z Cassandra Z

How long have you been a member of Health Mates and what originally brought you to us?

I joined about 11 years ago I took a two year break though after one of my sons was born I did the Michelle Bridges program to get started, but the cardio suggestion was outdoor running. I wasn't so keen on that, so joined up here. My original goal was weight loss and to get healthy so I could keep up with my kids

What does your training typically entail and what motivates you to keep exercising?

I am really enjoying doing weight training and a couple of classes a week I can do things I never thought I'd be able to do and I'm finding exercise helps me channel my anger and clears my mind I even have less headaches now

You've achieved a lot, share some of that with us and how has it impacted your life?

My confidence has changed completely. I have hit 100kg in a deadlift which I never thought was a possibility for me This is so empowering and motivates me to keep pushing Since starting I have lost four dress sizes and about 20kg With my last pregnancy I exercised right up to giving birth. Best of all I love getting outdoors; playing basketball with my boys or mowing the lawns I have no trouble carrying my youngest who's almost 25kg now Nothing seems hard anymore.

That's great and we're super proud of your achievements Where to from here?

I'm chasing a little more weight loss, around 5kg. I've introduced running into my routine and actually enjoying this I really want to focus on getting my lifting technique spot-on, being able to bench and squat heavier and hitting 125kg+ with my deadlifts I'll most likely invest in a PT to help me with this.

What's changed the most for you?

I feel like I am the fittest and strongest I've ever been, both mentally and physically My metabolism is more efficient and despite gaining some weight from time to time, I still manage to maintain my dress size. My mental resilience is so much stronger these days Running my own business and having three kids can be stressful, but I always feel better after my workouts here This is my 'safe place', where I have good friends and appreciate the community feel.

What advice would you give to someone in a similar position to yourself who is thinking about starting exercise?

Wise words Maz (one of our instructors) once shared with me many years ago; 'stop focusing on being skinny, instead focus on being strong' This has really worked for me Plus find ways to make exercise fit into your lifestyle All three of my boys went the the Tree House Creche here at the club, so that allowed me time to recharge and focus on my wellbeing Now that my eldest son is 14, he has joined Health Mates, so setting a healthy example for my boys is something I'm proud to be doing.

Congratulations Cassandra You're an inspiration and we're so pleased you have experienced the benefits of exercise in so many ways. It goes to show consistency and staying focused gets lasting results. Well done!

60SecondswithAdriana

Let us introduce you to Adriana. She's been a member with us for the past five years, so if her face looks familiar you may have spotted her in a class. Adriana has recently joined our Member Services team at reception and brings a bright personality, big smile and adventurous outlook on life.

Your personal fav exercise / type of exercise?

Boxing

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time / hobbies? Gardening, painting and learning the baritone ukulele

Go to snack?

Chickpeas with vinaigrette.

Tell us something about yourself that not many people know.

I worked in New Caledonia for three years

Do you have any pets and if so, tell us about them? Maxie the staffie. She is energetic and always up to mischief.

Fav take-away / fast food?

Falafel kebab

Do you speak any other languages?

French

Favourite holiday destination?

South Africa.

Favourite TV show?

Brooklyn99

What are you studying? I completed my Bachelor of International Studies and I am now studying a Master of Global Health.

Don'tbethatperson...

We know many of you enjoy training here, but get a tad annoyed when others don't respect our basic etiquette. Don't sit on equipment you're no using: if you're taking a call or typing a message, stand

Clean up after yourself: wipe down equipment after use, throw away trash, and put away weights and equipment properly

Use a towel: this provides a barrier between your body and the bench, preventing the transfer of sweat and bacteria. Let's face it, no one wants to touch your sweat or wipe up after you.

Respect others’ space: keep a safe distance from others while working out, respect their personal space and belongings Remember, no bags in classes or on the main floor - let's keep hazards to a minimum

Share equipment: be mindful of others and share equipment, especially during busy times.

Hygiene: wear clean clothing up and move away from the equipment so others can use it. and use deodorant. No one needs to smell the sweaty t-shirt you've been reusing and keeping in your gym bag for the past week Fresh is best.