|
On numerous occasions I have wasted money on gym membership.
The Sandymount Beach Bootcamp has changed my opinion of exercise - that it can be fun and that you can make the time to fit it into our busy lives. Mary is fantastic - always positive and encouraging and very motivational.
The setting is also fantastic - I couldn't recommend 'Forget The Gym' highly enough.
Katie, Dublin, Dec 2009
I joined beach bootcamp in July 09 and for the first time in well over 10 years I managed not only to stick with regular exercise but also to actually enjoy it! This is absolutely down to the way Mary runs the classes. They are varied and that keeps it interesting and keeps you motivated. The fact that it's not all about weight loss and more about getting fitter and feeling better makes it way more enjoyable than going to the gym. I was a complete beginner and
it's really great to see how much you can come on over a couple of months with a bit of effort.
Joanne, Dublin, Dec 2009
I really enjoyed Beach Bootcamp during the summer. I actually looked forward to exercise
for once in my life!
Laura, Dublin, Dec 2009
Speaking as someone who detects gyms with a passion and isn't too keen on exercise classes, I was surprised how much I enjoyed beach bootcamp and looked forward to each class regardless of the weather. The classes are an excellent mix of stretching, strengthening and cardio exercises. The intensity and combination of exercises change from week to week which prevents boredom from setting in. Each session is very informative - learning the correct way to do the various exercises and which parts of the body is should be targeting and the importance of good posture. Overall fitness is much improved - body has never been more flexible or stronger. An added bonus was discovering the joy of running.
Martina, Dublin, Dec 2009
I joined Beach Bootcamp in July this year and can honestly say it's the only exercise programme I have stuck with in about 10 years. Mary is really great at motivating and encouraging people - even to the point where I did a five-mile fun run in October, something I never thought I would be able to do. There is great variety and fun in the classes, no one takes themselves too seriously but everyone gets stuck in. Mary has a great line on one of her t-shirts "I am a Work in Progress" and she really does make you believe that. I would highly recommend Beach Bootcamp to anyone who wants to get fit but doesn't know where to start."
Deirdre, Dublin, Dec 2009
Before bootcamp, I never stuck with any form of regular exercise and never in a million years thought I could run.
Since starting in June I have done a 5k run and am hoping to do a 10k next summer. Others might be aiming for marathons but it doesn't matter because it is for all levels.
Its also the first time I have felt in control of my weight.
Sinead, Dublin, Dec 2009
Having decided to do Bootcamp in August, I never thought 2 months later I would be doing a competitive 5km.
I always hated running and thought I could never do it. Now that Mary has given me the encouragement and the level of fitness
I need I'm happy to go for a run rather than a walk and I feel great after it. Not to mention looking good too. I've toned up and back in size 12 jeans!
You definitely look forward to each night and getting out in the fresh air beats a stuffy gym anytime.
Norma, Dublin, Oct 2009
I would recommend ForgetTheGym to anyone. The personable, supportive approach that Mary gives is something you don't get anywhere else.
She listens to what you want to achieve and then motivates and encourages you to get there, helping you all the way. The exercise itself is great too.
The routine the bootcamp gives helps anyone stay on track. I never thought I would enjoy running or exercising on a regular basis. Now I'm motivated to go for runs myself and feel a great sense of satisfaction each time.
Laura, Dublin, Oct 2009
As someone who had a fear of gym's and exercise in general as the result of bad memories of gym class in a mixed school, I was delighted to find that Beach Bootcamp was for women only. There is a great atmosphere in the class and Mary makes sure to strike the right balance between pushing you hard without pushing you away! The exercises are varied and your fitness really builds up each week. Despite it being a group class Mary provides a lot of 1:1 attention and the nutritional advice and homework really help to keep you on track. Thanks to Beach Bootcamp I no longer have a fear of exercise and I've even started jogging on a regular basis. I would and have recommended Beach Bootcamp to many of my friends and colleagues.
AnneMarie, Dublin, Oct 2009
'Forget The Gym' has totally changed my opinion and entire attitude towards exercise. Mary is extremely motivational and encouraging in her approach,
so you never feel that you are out of your depth or holding up the class.
Before I started Boot Camp I avoided exercise like the plague.
I always hated PE in school and have never darkened the door of a gym in my life. I really wasn't sure what to expect when I signed up for boot camp
but after the first class I was hooked. There is a huge variety in the types of exercises that we do so you're never bored or distracted.
I have definitely noticed a huge difference in my fitness levels since joining and actually look forward to the classes, which is something that
I never dreamed would happen.
I would highly recommend ForgetTheGym.ie to everyone, but especially to those, who like me want to get fit but aren't sure how to go about it.
Mairead, Dublin, Nov 2009
I really enjoyed taking part in Bootcamp over the last few months. I loved being able to exercise out in the fresh air
on the beach rather than being stuck inside a gym.
There was great variety within the classes doing running, circuits and pilates
so you were always doing something different. I felt my overall fitness improved greatly over the summer. Mary was great at motivating you
even giving out homework if you wished each week which was great for making me do more exercise!
Orna, Dublin, Nov 2009
I never thought I'd say this but I really do look forward to each class!
Sine, Dublin, Dec 2009
I look forward to the time I spend at bootcamp. It's great fun and I find the hour passes very quickly and as the exercises are mixed up so much, it doesn't feel too tough. I have become more aware of my posture and the exercises I need to do to work on specific areas and I can definitely feel it working after 5 classes.
Fiona, Dublin, April 2009
What I enjoy about beach bootcamp is the variety during the class, a
mix of cardio and mat work makes the hour fly! Being outside is
refreshing and relaxing, by the end of the class I feel healthy inside
and outside. Working out with a small group in this way means I am
more motivated to attend than I would be to go to a gym or exercise on
my own.
I feel committed to the class in a way I haven't done with
gyms, I would be reluctant to miss the class unless I was ill.
Another
huge positive for me is the attitude of the instructor, mary is so
encouraging and reassuring, advising that everyone should work at
their own pace yet still pushing everyone to challenge themselves!
Lavina, Dublin, April 2009
I would highly recommend this class to a friend / colleague. The location is really good. So much better than being in a stuffy gym with an impersonal atmosphere. Even though the class is challenging it is very enjoyable. The group is very friendly and the atmosphere is very good. I can honestly say that its all down to Mary. She creates a fun, encouraging, challenging and enjoyable atmosphere. She provides a very personal service seeing everyones strengths and weaknesses giving great advice / hints.
Carmel, Dublin, April 2009
Each week we do something different in Bootcamp, it is all fun, there is nothing that is to difficult - With the variation in each class the hour flies in.
Mary constantly reminds you that you can go at your own pace therefore it is suitable for everyone of all fitness levels.
It is a great feeling to be outside in the fresh air exercising rather than been indoors in a gym.
Louise, Dublin, April 2009
I have to say you feel much better having done an hour on the beach in the fresh air than being stuck in a gym. I enjoyed all the exercises really and its amazing how much you can do without any equipment. I liked the way the level of exercise increased every week so you were always being pushed a bit more but always at your own pace.
For those of us who don't enjoy the gym or who have been caught paying annual gym membership fees and only end up going for a month, its great value and an enjoyable way to get fit.
Orlaigh, Dublin, April 2009
Mary makes it a lot of fun and changes the routine each week so you always try something new. It is great being outdoors as it is about the only time during the week I get some fresh air - it beats the gym any day of the week!
The circuit training is a great way to get fit, get some fresh air and meet new people. You can take it at your pace, there is no pressure and it is a lot of fun. I always feel full of energy when we are finished and am rearing to go again!
Jennifer, Dublin, Sept 2008
I enjoy the Beach Circuit Training as it is something a bit different than your usual fitness class. It is so nice to leave work on a Thursday evening and head down to the beach. You can take the class at your own pace and with the encouragement of Mary the instructor and the others in the class you learn to push yourself harder each week.
I have brought 3 new people along since I started the class, and they love coming now to! We encourage each other to go to class even if we are feeling tired after a long day in work.
Kerrie, Dublin, Sept 2008
I love the fact it feels quite personal as opposed to a class with 20 people in it. Also because Mary puts a bit of variety into it so we are constantly learning about the different ways our bodies work and how we can make them work better! I enjoy learning the various new exercises and seeing my fitness improve over the weeks.
Kam, Dublin, Sept 2008
Being new in Dublin, I especially enjoyed the social aspect of working out together in a group and it is a great opportunity to meet new people. Nice to be outdoors as well, especially after a long day in the office. The classes offer a great mix of cardio and strength/toning and can be tailor-made to the participants.
Malin, Dublin, Sept 2008
Since working with Mary at ForgetTheGym.ie, Ive learned to enjoy exercise rather than viewing it a chore! I'm getting better at running and am more confident and in the process ive lost a few pounds and toned up!
Mary is very encouraging so I actually kept motivated and learned to enjoy running rather than always focusing on the pounds I lost.
Unlike other personal training services and gyms, its not solely focused on weight results. It's a very positive approach, and encourages people to actually enjoy exercise. I think this is a much more sustainable approach to exercise! I like the way the training is outdoors-its really lovely and so much nicer than a gym. Also the training over the internet works really well for someone that doesn't have much time to meet in person. Mary always gave constructive feedback and ths kept me going when I was feeling a little demotivated!
Jeanne, Dublin, May 2009
I would recommend 'Forget The Gym' for two main reasons.
Firstly, the type of exercise 'Forget The Gym' promotes: getting up & outdoors, it really is a breath of fresh air.
Secondly, the very personable service and commitment you get from Mary. I enjoyed the personal contact and motivation that you would never get from an anonymous gym.
Goals are changed and updated and you can really see progress.
Aisling, Dublin, Apr 2009
Mary is inspirational in her attitude to training and fitness: she is motivating, challenging, so easy to get on
with, very professional and a lot of fun! There was no strict diet or weighing or measuring my thighs,
all the stuff that used to drive me crazy and start me obsessing.
Through my training and work with Mary I am learning to eat better and listen to my body.
I am now seeing changes in my body, feeling stronger, fitter, more toned and I am losing weight and I love running!!!!!
I have achieved things I never ever thought possible a couple of months ago.
I have completed a 5km, an 8km and a 10km race and am on my way to do a Triathlon, a 10 mile and a half marathon and hopefully a marathon!!!!
None of this would be possible without Mary. She has helped me to believe I can do it, given me fantastic training plans
and supported me all the way checking in with me even outside my sessions with her.
I will never forget the feeling of finishing my first 8km race in a time that I never thought possible: I felt amazing!!!!!
I have met some other wonderful women through Revive Fitness/Forget The Gym and now we train together.
Eadaoin, Dublin, July 2008
Working With Revive Fitness/ Forget The Gym prepared me physicially (and mentally) for my goal - my first Triathlon. It also kept me motivated and gave me the confidence to know I could complete it - I registed for the event after my first training session with Revive Fitness's PT, Mary and prior to that, I didnt think I had enough training time to do it.
I would recommend 'Forget The Gym' as it helps people to achieve their goals in a realistic way (it prepares the mind as well as the body). Also it connects members with other members who live near each other to allow them run together. Deirdre, Dublin, Aug 2008
"The thing that stands out about Mary at Revive Fitness/ForgetTheGym is her down-to-earth, but highly supportive approach to the training,
occasionally checking in on you personally to see how you're getting on. The One-2-One training sessions were a brilliant source of
support but also, an opportunity to actually witness my own progress myself, a place to see that my ability more often than not exceeded
what I thought!
Joanne, Dublin, June 2008
"As my first introduction to Personal Training I have to commend Mary for her down to earth yet professional
approach. It can be very daunting searching for a Personal Trainer to help you achieve what seems like an
impossible goal but Mary put my mind at ease within the first five minutes of meeting her.
The 8 week Mini Marathon training plan was very achievable with Mary's guidance and support.
It was very reassuring to know that she was a quick text or email away if I had any problems or questions.
I would without a doubt recommend this mini-marathon training plan for any woman who wants to prove to herself
and everyone else that she can jog for more than a few minutes without collapsing!!!"
Siobhan, Maynooth, June 2008
"I worked with Mary over six sessions and I found it to be most beneficial. A female in my
late twenties, I had spent most of my professional life in a career that involved extensive travel and
working late nights. My life had become filled with high stress, poor diet and bouts of frenetic exercise,
followed by great lulls. Facing my thirties straight in the eye, I decided I wanted to do something about
my lifestyle, not just my love handles!
Mary's approach made me realise the importance of looking at long term lifestyle patterns and how small
changes can make a huge difference. Education is key and Mary was always on hand with tips and information.
The service was never judgemental and even slip-ups in diet and exercise were greeted as part of the journey.
My life has changed for the better - my skin and hair look much better, I am feeling more positive with much
lower stress levels and buckets more energy. Most of all I am really pleased that my new healthy lifestyle
should serve me well long into the future.
Thank you Mary and Revive Fitness! A truly life-changing experience!"
Sandra, March 2007
Prior to joining beach bootcamp in April, I always believed that I wasn't built for running and couldn't run any longer than five minutes before collapsing in heap. Mary gave me the belief and encouragement that just maybe I can run if I took things slow and adopted a walk/run approach and gradually increase length of run and decrease walking breaks. To my surprise, I found that I can run and determined to see how far I could progress with the whole running lark and decided to target the addias race series (5, 10, 13.1 miles) in the Phoenix park.. After completing the 10 mile race in the Phoenix park in an unbelievable time, I knew running the extra 3.1 miles for the half marathon wasn't enough of a challenge yet the marathon distance was pretty daunting.
Participating in the Dublin City Marathon has always been an impossible life long dream but perhaps now a possibility. I've now achieved the impossible. Running and finishing the marathon was an awesome experience. Strange as it sounds, I enjoyed every single second of it and never once contemplated quitting. All the time consuming months of training were most definitely worth it and has been a life changing experience that will be extremely hard to beat. Running has improved my health and confidence. I'm now starting to wonder what else I can do that I think I can't. This has given me the confidence to finally tackle my fear of water and learn to swim. As regards the running, it's an integral part of a healthier, leaner me. All of this wouldn't have been possible without Mary's encouragement and advice. Thanks Mary you've literally changed my life for the better.
Martina, Dublin, Dec 2009
"Possibly for the first time in my life I am actually enjoying exercise, it is not something I feel I have to do, but rather something I want to do. I started out on week 1 with an idea I would like to be able to run for 30mins. I was starting from nothing and by week 8 I have exceeded my expectation and can jog (slowly) for 40minutes.
I loved the challenges that Mary set out each week. At times they were difficult and it was hard to see progress but each week was challenging and it was not until I looked back over the weeks that I really realised how much progress I really had made.
I think it is a great service, a really good motivational tool !!!
"
Maura, Dublin, July 2009
"Considering when I started I could barely walk after a c- section, the thought of running a half marathon was beyond me! I would definitely recommend to friends. Primarily to people who are scared of running/postnatal, etc. "
Dorothy, Dublin, June 2009
"I never believed I could run before for any length of time and now I realise that by building slowly towards my goal, it is achievable! Being emailed the plan at the start of the week motivated me to follow it as I had to update my training log with my progress each session.
I would definitely recommend the service to a friend. Mary is very encouraging and really makes you feel you can do it!
"
Philippa, Dublin, May 2009
"Thanks for all your support and encouragement for the race. I really enjoyed it and was very happy with my time. I would definitely recommend Online Training to a friend, it was just what I needed to get me out and to keep me motivated.
I felt your comments were always very encouraging but also you did not take any excuses for weather etc. and that would have been one of my weaknesses- looking for a reason not to go out. I found the pace of the training programme suited me as I am often inclined to rush things and to try and do too much to soon so you kept me very focussed but also I tried to do things in moderation for a change- even during the race- and it paid off !!
"
Frances, Dublin, April 2009
"I enjoyed getting a new programme every week and that it was varied, some of the half marathon training programmes I had seen were based on mileage and were a bit off-putting as they appeared to be more for the accomplished runner. ForgetTheGym online training programme was great because it was personal service which gave feedback, it built up the fitness slowly and gave me the confidence to keep going every week. You were extremely encouraging also!
Its definitely a better way of getting fit than a gym, being out in the fresh air is great for the body and mind - even when it was snowing in January, I actually looked forward to doing the training!
"
Clare, Carlow, March 2009
I would recommend 'Forget The Gym' personal training service to the busy woman who is looking for sensible and realistic exercise and training advice that has visible long lasting results. My friends are in awe at how much I have achieved in a short space of time and my response is as follows, If I can do it, so can you!
I will never forget the moment I crossed the finish line in Dublin City Marathon. I was euphoric and it took about a week for me to fully acknowledge the fact that I had achieved what only ten months earlier I never dreamed of being capable of doing. 26.2 miles. That feeling of achievement has yet to be beaten.
I honestly doubt I would have even contemplated this feat had it not been for my trainer Mary Jennings who was the inspiration and motivation that got me through the months of training and ultimately over that finish line 26.2 miles later.
It was in 2007 that I started dabbling in the whole running thing. I had often seen people out running and admired their commitment and determination as they pounded the pavements in all sorts of weather. I am not a gym fan and I love the outdoors so this seemed like the solution as I really wanted to start feeling fitter.
I walked/jogged the 2007 womens mini marathon for charity and it was shortly after that I signed up with Revive Fitness for a training programme for the Adidas 5 mile and 10 mile runs in the Phoenix Park. When I completed the 10 mile race in the Phoenix Park I knew I wanted to do a half marathon. I spoke to Mary who talked me through the next stage of the training programme. The training was tailored by Mary on a weekly basis around my timetable and it resulted in me finishing the Dublin Half Marathon that September in 2hr15min. I was hooked. I had never felt so good in my head and body and I was always full of energy.
The next thing I knew we were talking about a marathon. I remember laughing about it but as I was feeling confident after the half marathon I decided to try continue with the training programme with Mary. I would send Mary my training log every Sunday for the previous week and she would send me feedback and the plan for the week. As I as increasing my mileage each week, my nutritional needs changed but any questions I had, Mary had the answer. As the weeks turned into months my training progressed steadily.
Of course in the weeks leading up to the marathon I went through bouts of nerves, but Mary was on the end of the phone to answer any of my questions.
Running is now integral to my life and apart from keeping fit, sane and in shape, I have met some great people as a result of it. Thanks Mary for inspiring me to join the world of recreational runners!
Suzanne, Meath, Feb 2009
"As a complete beginner, I really enjoyed the programme and the introduction to running. I thought the
customised training programme was great as it took account of my progress and always felt realistic
and achievable."
Mary, Blackrock, June 2008
"I would definitely recommend Revive Fitness to friends (and have done) as it offers a way for anyone to train with whatever time and level of experience they have. Setting targets was a key part of the program, but they are your own targets, which makes them an even better motivator.It was great to have a way of training that fitted around my schedule. The schedule could be planned to fit in with work, giving me something to look forward to at the end of each day.
Richard, Kilkenny, Oct 2008
"My first big achievement with ForgetTheGym.ie / Revive Fitness was to jog the women's mini-marathon.
I did it and it felt brilliant!
Having a weekly plan made it easier to stick to and I ended up doing not only the mini marathon,
but the entire Adidas Race Series leading up to an including the Dublin Half Marathon !!
(a 5 mile and a 10 mile run with a few 5k races thrown in for good measure!).
When I look at what I have achieved in 6 months I am very proud of myself!
Mary supported
me in all my accomplishments and were always on hand to advise me on matters such nutrition,
stretching and injury prevention.
I am now aiming for the Dublin Marathon 2008 with the help of Revive Fitness."
Suzanne F, Dec 2007
"My mum and I initially started off doing a fitness class with Mary and because she was so encouraging and
outgoing we decided to enrol on the on-line mini-marathon training programme. Neither of us were particularly
fit to say the least, we weren't in the habit of doing regular exercise at all. The thought of going out
for a 40 minute jog put the fear of God in us! With Mary's step by step programme it wasn't long before we
were well on the way. Now just 6 weeks later, we're just after jogging the mini-marathon! I can't describe how
good that made us feel! The programme completely exceeded our expectations.
Before we began, Mary warned us that we would catch the fitness bug....we definitely have!!
Thanks a mil Mary!!!"
Susan and Marie (Mother and Daughter), June 2008
"I started running last year so I knew I would be able to complete the distance of the mini-marathon.
However, I didn't know how to improve my pace. Mary put together a programme that focused on improving speed.
I managed to take 1 minute off each kilometre! I loved getting my programme each week and felt great
filling in my log and watching myself improve. I feel fantastic and get loads of compliments.
If I can do it, anybody can!"
Aoife, Kilkenny, June 2008
"I'd be delighted to recommend the online training programme to anyone, I found it so helpful, encouraging
and very realistic, considering I was totally new to jogging. What I liked most was the sense of
achievement in completing the programme each week and Mary's feedback really helped me to keep it up,
which was always my downfall with any other efforts at getting fit. I really appreciate the time taken to
make sure I was doing well and look forward to doing more programmes in the future."
Emer, Wexford, June 2008
"Well done Mary for having prepared such a professional program while keeping it fun.
I will absolutely be recommending it to my friends and family".
Marie, Amsterdam, June 2007
"Within a week of starting the Mini Marathon programme I had more energy. My body shape
has changed and I get compliments now all the time. I enjoy my food and still have all my treats but
the exercise elements of the programme are reaping the benefits. Thank you Mary for reintroducing me
to exercise and for teaching me simple healthy ways to change my bad food habits."
Susan, Ratoath, June 2007
"Having the programme gave me a focus which I wouldn't have had on my own. Its a great way to train and
really handy getting it all via internet. I found the weekly feedback very encouraging and it really helped
to keep me going. The sense of achievement as I progressed was amazing!"
Janine, Dublin, June 2007
"As the organiser of the KARE staff training day, I can say that feedback says Revive Fitness were an
excellent choice for our staff. Mary provided excellently structured workshops with sound, practical
advice - this suited our staff and the results were hugely positive.
I would recommend Revive Fitness to any organisation for a person centred service to staff in the
area of health and well being. We found that the personalised service was refreshing and exciting as
when we started planning for the day we found that many of the 'staff health and well being' packages
were very business oriented or that nutritionists were too clinical. Mary provided a fun, interactive
approach and it went down a storm.
Many thanks for a job well done!."
Caroline Dixon (KARE Training Officer), April 2008
"Mary gave an interesting and different approach to healthy options that were fun and accessible.
To be honest I wasn't looking forward to the workshop as I thought it was going to be a lecture,
but it was far from it and I really learned something about myself and the food choices I need to make"
Mary (KARE Employee), April 2008
"Revive Fitness ran a workshop on Healthy Living and Nutrition for the Down Syndrome Young Adults club.
The evening was a great success, it was fun and interactive and pitched at the right level. Clearly a lot of
research had gone into creating a session that was relevant and lively. Mary was able to adapt the session
as she went along to respond to the questions and interests of the group. The young adults all benefited
from the evening and had a lot of fun at the same time!"
Julie, Volunteer: Downs Syndrome Dublin, May 2008
"This course set me well on the path to fitness and i would recommend it to any woman wanting to get her
energy back. I really enjoyed the small group, the very informative talks and good mix of nutrition
advice and exercise."
Suzanne, Slane, May 2007
"I couldn't fault the course. I enjoyed the good mix of nutrition, exercise and meditation. Since joining
the course i have found a new love for fitness - it has given me the incentive to change my lifestyle
for the better."
Edel, Slane, May 2007
"I really liked the nutrition segments and the variety of the classes. I can now confidently read food labels
and am able to make healthier choices for myself and my family."
Susan, Dunshaughlin, May 2007
|
|
|
|
Copyright 2006-2010 © ForgetTheGym.ie. All rights reserved.
|
|
|
|
