Fit for the Future …One Month On

Last month, I shared the start of my fitness journey with personal trainer Chantelle Barraball. At the time, I was just a few weeks into the programme and feeling encouraged by the early results. I looked forward another month, and I can honestly say that the experience has been both rewarding and eye-opening.

One thing I have learned is that progress is rarely a straight line.

Over the past month, I have trained consistently five to six times per week. My routine has been a combination of padel for cardiovascular fitness, gym-based strength training and a weekly one-to-one personal training session with Chantelle. Together, we have worked hard to build strength, improve fitness levels and establish habits that will support long-term results.

Of course, life has a way of testing your commitment.

Earlier in the month, I suffered a fall while playing padel and twisted my knee. Just as I was beginning to recover, I then strained my Achilles tendon a couple of weeks later. It would have been easy to let those setbacks derail my progress, but one of the biggest lessons I am learning is the importance of consistency. Rather than focusing on what I couldn't do, I adapted my training, rested when necessary and continued moving forward whenever possible.

Nutrition has remained a major part of the process. I have consistently hit my daily protein targets and maintained my goal of walking 10,000 steps per day. Having clear targets and accountability has made a huge difference, and Chantelle has been there every step of the way with regular check-ins, encouragement and advice whenever I have needed it.

The results are now becoming increasingly noticeable. Having completed seven weeks since starting my journey, I have lost four kilos and reduced my waist measurement by two inches. My stomach is visibly flatter, my clothes fit more comfortably, and I feel stronger, healthier and more energised.

Perhaps the biggest surprise has been achieving these results without putting my life on hold. During this time, I have attended social events, enjoyed meals out with friends, shared a few drinks and embraced all the occasions that make life enjoyable. The difference is that I now feel in control. I have learned that healthy living doesn't mean deprivation. It means making more nourishing choices more often and nourishing your body while still enjoying life's pleasures in moderation.

What has become clear over the last seven weeks is that this isn't about a quick fix. It is about creating sustainable habits and making lasting changes that will benefit my health and wellbeing for years to come.

"It is about creating sustainable habits and making lasting changes that will benefit my health and wellbeing for years to come."

What sets Chantelle apart is her practical, realistic approach. There are no extreme diets, miracle solutions or unrealistic promises. Instead, she focuses on education, consistency and helping people create habits that are realistic and deliver long-term results.

I am delighted with my progress so far, but I know there is still plenty of work ahead. Over the coming months, I will continue sharing my journey with OCIO readers, documenting both the successes and the challenges as I work towards becoming the healthiest and strongest version of myself.

For those inspired to start their own journey, Chantelle offers several options. Her popular 8 Week Challenge provides structure, accountability, a supportive WhatsApp community and expert guidance for those looking to kick start their transformation. She also offers personalised one-to-one online coaching tailored to individual goals, as well as group fitness classes for those who enjoy training in a motivating and supportive environment.

So if you have been thinking about making a positive change to your health and fitness, perhaps now is the perfect time to take that first step. Get in touch with Chantelle and discover how the right support, guidance and accountability could help you achieve your goals too.