MTAN: Sandie Barwick
More Than a Number, Sandie.
Have you always been involved in fitness or exercise?
When I was younger and single I was. But, I moved to Newcastle from Sydney, got married, started a family and life got in the way. Raising 3 young children didn’t leave much free time for me.
If yes, what have you done previously?
I loved doing gym classes, weight training and a small amount of running.
Did you have a goal when you first joined?
I wanted to get healthy. I was struggling with depression and I really wanted to do something that would help get me out of the black hole I was in. So, I decided to join Planet Fitness when my youngest child started school and I had some free time during school hours.
Have you reached a goal or have you achieved what you originally set out to do?
I set a goal for myself in 2015 to run my very 1st 1/2 marathon, which I did on April 19th. I completed the Hill to Harbour 1/2 marathon in 2.05. I have since completed 2 more 1/2 marathons both in under 2 hours, and recently completed 2015 Run Newcastle 12km run in 1.00.45 which was over 7 minutes faster then my time in the same race in 2014.
What was your perception of Gyms/Health clubs before you joined? Has it changed after joining Planet Fitness?
I thought I was too old to go to the gym. But, since joining Planet I have made some amazing friends and I have discovered age is no barrier to fitness. I’m fitter and faster now in my mid 40s then I was in my 30s and I love it!
What are your fitness goals for the future?
My major goal is to run my very 1st Marathon in 2016; I have plans to run it in July at the Gold Coast. I also want to stay fit and healthy and continue to be a good role model for my kids.
Biggest obstacles you have had to overcome on your fitness journey?
My biggest obstacle is self-doubt, I always underestimate what I am capable of and have a lot of negative thoughts about my abilities.
Do you have sources if inspiration? If so, what are they?
I am inspired everyday by my friends, both at the gym and in my running group by their achievements and greatness.
What is your weekly fitness regime?
Monday – 9:30am class | Tuesday – running | Wednesday – 9:30am class or running | Thursday – running
Friday – 9:30am class | Saturday – Parkrun or rest day | Sunday – rest day or race day
Favourite quote?
“Run like a girl” because girls are awesome, and “You only have to be better then you were yesterday” because the only person you need to compete against is yourself.