Kerry Duffy a inspirational FIF member

Name: Kerry Duffy

When did you join FIF: I joined around July 2015

Biggest change in myself physically: My body is less jiggly. I can run longer and a bit faster. I can lift heavier weights and have muscles.

Biggest change mentally: I have more faith in what my body can accomplish and I enjoy exercise. I also believe it has kept me smoke free and wanting to lead a healthier lifestyle.

What is your favourite FIF moment: Rotorua Ekidon, it was so much fun with an amazing group of people. We were all different fitness levels and running abilities, but everyone was there to encourage and motivate you to do your best. We also dressed up; which is always fun!

What is something you have gained from being part of FIF: I have gained so much since joining the group. I have gained confidence in myself and my abilities and I have also gained friendships.

First day at FIF: It was so incredibly tough (actually it still is) and I began to feel the effects fairly quickly after the workout and for several days afterwards. In my head, I always thought that I could run, lift weights and do this exercise thing fairly easily but apparently my body had other ideas.

What are your hobbies or interests outside of FIF: Running, tramping and cycling (old Kerry is quietly laughing)

Most memorable workout: While I have fond memories of most workouts, I remember one in particular that I really struggled with (mentally). We had to do rounds of broad jumps uphill, then lunges and something else and then a run around the carpark. The first round was a fairly weak attempt from me and the run turned in to a walk. I remember the group motivating me to keep going (as I probably appeared to have given up on everything). I remember Anna telling me to do 5 broad jumps in a row and before I knew it I had exceeded my last round, then I ran the whole way around the carpark. It was tough physically and mentally and I would not have gotten through without the support of the group. A recent memorable workout was when we did wall walks. I never in a million years thought I would be able to hold myself upside down. It was such a great feeling.

Least Favourite workout: Anything with burpees. I thought I would learn to enjoy burpees like I do bear crawls (not like I love bear crawls, but I have gotten better at them over time), but burpees kill me every time.

Any advice for people just getting started: Come along and give it a go. I love group training and I know I would not get the workout I get by doing it alone. I use the group as motivation. Each of us have the things we enjoy and are good at and you will find that here. It is a great group with a variety of abilities, ages and sizes brought together for a common goal of making fitness fun!