Judy shares how she regained her fitness and lost weight along the way

Judy shares how “just starting” was a big achievement.

Read Judy’s story on how she regained her fitness and lost weight along the way I had never been an outdoor or sporty person though I took up running in my mid fifties. I loved the social aspect of the running group. In 2017 I had knee surgery (totally unrelated to running) that put an end to running so I was looking for something I could do long term. Yvonne, the founder of Women’s Fitness Adventures, was a member of the same running group and I watched her business with interest. I joined in late 2017. Firstly just starting was a big achievement.

I am a bit of an over-thinker so it was easy to sit back see all the reasons that you couldn’t do the adventures.

I started with the Introduction to Hiking Bundle in early 2018. The 5 sessions took me through the basics. And the other women in the group were all new like me. I had never hiked before but there was always someone there to encourage and advise. Here I found a very supportive group of like minded women   The introduction to rock hopping was so far out of my comfort zone. However the support and encouragement from the C.R.E.W. (Community of Real, Everyday Women) and the coaches was amazing. I have booked to do it again this year! Later this year I am doing my first multi-day adventure with Women’s Fitness Adventures. I am excited about the Tasmanian Deep South! I retired in 2018 and previously work had taken up most of my time. This was earlier than I planned due to my knee. I was overweight and had lost all my running fitness. Over the next 18 months I showed up to hiking, I regained my fitness and I lost weight. In total I have now lost 18kg and feel strong and healthy. It’s important to me to be active and independent as I age. I know if I don’t move things become more difficult. The benefits for me of being an active member go far beyond the the fitness development. It is also about the social interaction, the mental challenges, making a commitment to yourself and showing up and of course lots of laughs If you are like me and tend to overthink things, this is my advice. Join. Don’t over-think it. Believe in yourself and you can figure anything out. The CREW and leaders are supportive, understanding and help us all reach our goals. Start where you are at at the moment. There are plenty of social walks if you want to start there. Otherwise sign up for the Introduction to Hiking bundle and enjoy! Judy has been an active member since 2017 and has completed many adventures in that time. Women’s Fitness Adventures helps women become stronger and fitter for life through an adventure that combines fitness, travel and a social connection to a like minded community. For more information visit our website, email info@womensfitnessadventures.com or call 0412 121 420 Since 2014, Yvonne Shepherd, Founder & CEO has shared her passion of helping women 45 plus get fitter and stronger through outdoor adventures and in turn, lead stronger and fitter lives.