MTAN: Jenny Mason
Meet Jenny! Lambton’s latest More Than a Number and long standing member.
Have you always been involved in fitness or exercise?
Not always, probably from the early 80s (scary!) – with all the gear: leotards, leg warmers etc.
If yes, what have you done previously?
I used to do aerobics, ironically at what is now the Knights admin centre next door to Planet, in those days it was Joe Dunnage’s squash courts.
What brought you to Planet Fitness?
In the early 90s (around ‘93), I developed a chronic fatigue type illness and eventually was unable to continue to exercise, which was devastating to me as I loved it so much. I spent the next 5 years trying to get answers as to why I could no longer exercise. In 1997 I had a pacemaker inserted and began a long road back.
Did you have a goal when you first joined?
When I joined Planet I aimed to be able to do 2-3 circuit group fitness classes a week – often I would need to take low impact options. Staff at the time were so supportive and encouraging.
Have you reached a goal or have you achieved what you originally set out to do?
Absolutely, plus so much more. I eventually tried out the Body Pump group and then we did a class which had a few tracks from all the group fitness programs Planet offered at the time. I also discovered Body Attack, which I previously believed I could never do! I loved it and it quickly became my favourite class.
What was your perception of gyms/health clubs before you joined? Has it changed after joining Planet Fitness?
Over the years I have been to many of the local gyms in Newcastle but have never found anywhere like Planet Lambton. It is a really special place with some of the most amazing, caring and beautiful people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing – staff and members. I regard them all as part of my Planet family.
What are your fitness goals for the future?
I want to be able to continue to stay fit and healthy as long as possible. Plus, I want to add more weight based exercises into my regime.
Biggest obstacles you have had to overcome on your fitness journey?
By far the biggest obstacle is what is in your head – “I could never do that”. But guess what? You can do that! All it takes is a supportive environment, encouraging instructors and belief in yourself.
Do you have sources if inspiration? If so, what are they?
Absolutely every day I see people at Planet who inspire me – Cory Newman, Cherie Drinkwater, Sandie Lyndall, Kerry, Ivan…the list is huge. I guess I have been around long enough to see them become so much fitter than they ever believed they could be. And no list could be complete without mentioning Helen Baker, who inspired and encouraged me at Planet for so long. Still miss your Body Attack group fitness classes Helen, they were unique!
Favourite quote:
“Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you”. – Dr. Seuss.