Mytime Active stories - Linda & Norman

Linda and Norman: Finding their mojo again with Mytime Active.

For Linda (77) and Norman (73), life has always been about supporting others. Linda is a retired teaching assistant and Norman, despite losing his sight and being forced into early retirement, retrained and went on to teach at a college for adults with special needs. But as the years passed, they found themselves needing a little extra support too. 

Since joining Mytime Active at Hatchford Brook in the Midlands, the couple has rediscovered their confidence and love for staying active. Whether it's enjoying community wellbeing walks, group exercise classes or keeping fit in the gym.

Linda explains: “Before COVID, we attended a private gym and I personally really enjoyed Pilates. However, when we returned, the atmosphere had changed, and the familiar staff and members were gone. It no longer felt the same, so we stopped going, leaving us without a place to go and be active.

“Our bodies started aching more and we lacked energy, so we began looking for a new wellness opportunity. We explored a few options but immediately felt at home at Hatchford Brook Golf and Gym Centre. The venue is clean, with a lovely café on-site, and the team makes us feel very welcome. As part of our introduction, we took part in a health check, including weight and blood pressure assessments. We were happy to sign up for the six-week Fresh Start Friendly programme, which included a personalised gym plan and group wellbeing walks.

“From the very first session, we met lovely, like-minded people and quickly hit it off. We appreciated the personalised approach, which was especially helpful for my husband whilst he learnt his way around the centre. We also liked the guided walks around the park and workouts tailored to our individual abilities. But what we loved most was the social side. After a walk or workout, we’d gather in the café for coffee and conversation. Walking and talking, what’s not to love!

"We continued our membership after completing the six-week programme and now visit twice a week to meet our new friends. We paused our walks for winter, but with the sun starting to shine again, we’re looking forward to resuming them soon. We both feel more agile, fitter, healthier, and happier – and that’s so important in later life."