Fit For The Future

In November 2025, I celebrated a milestone birthday, unfortunately it wasn't 40 or even 50. Along with the passing years came the inevitable signs of ageing: a few extra wrinkles, the odd ache and pain, and a body that no longer responded quite the way it once did.

Although I navigated the menopause relatively smoothly, with only occasional hormonal fluctuations, there was one thing I struggled to accept, the gradual weight gain, expanding waistline and stubborn back fat that seemed to quietly take up residence over time.

Ironically, this was not the first time I had found myself in this position. Fifteen years ago, after too much partying, socialising and neglecting my general fitness, I embarked on a personal training programme called "Operation Bikini", which was featured in OCIO Magazine over a four-month period. Through hard work, discipline and determination, the transformation was remarkable and left me feeling fitter, healthier and far more confident.

Fast forward to today, and I realised it was once again time to prioritise my health and wellbeing. This time, I turned to local personal trainer and sports enthusiast, Chantelle Barraball.

Fitness has always played a major role in Chantelle's life. Growing up, she took part in swimming, athletics and team sports, following in the footsteps of her sporty father, who still competes and wins medals into his seventies.

Chantelle herself has built an impressive sporting résumé, competing in marathons, triathlons and obstacle course races, often achieving podium finishes. More recently, her focus has shifted towards open-water swimming, CrossFit and hybrid fitness events that combine endurance and strength training.

Chantelle firmly believes in practising what she preaches. "Challenging myself regularly helps me better understand the mindset, fears and achievements my own clients experience," she explains.

Alongside her online one-to-one coaching and small group training sessions, Chantelle now runs highly popular 8 Week Challenges, which immediately resonated with me.

The programme combines tailored fitness and nutrition guidance with accountability, realistic goal setting and sustainable lifestyle changes. Participants also become part of a supportive WhatsApp community made up of people sharing the same journey, where Chantelle regularly provides encouragement, practical advice and motivational tips to help keep everyone focused and inspired.

Using Chantelle's online app, I track my progress, while regular check-ins help keep me accountable and on course. Importantly, the programme is designed around real life. It is not about extreme dieting or unrealistic restrictions, but about creating healthy, sustainable habits that fit around work, socialising, lunches with friends and the occasional glass of wine.

"It is not about extreme dieting or unrealistic restrictions, but about creating healthy, sustainable habits that fit around real life."

At the time of writing I have completed three weeks with Chantelle, with her 8 Week Challenge as well as an extra weekly one-to-one session.

I am already two kilos lighter. I feel stronger, more energised and far more focused on becoming the best version of myself both physically and mentally.

Most importantly, I feel I am focusing not just on how I look today, but on my future health, confidence and wellbeing.

Follow my progress over the coming months and, if you too are ready to take control of your health and fitness journey, perhaps now is the perfect time to get in touch with Chantelle.