Paula’s Story

Paula began her journey at Chanctonbury Leisure Centre in April 2021 and by her own admission, she had not been looking after herself properly.

A reduction in her physical activity levels meant she was also starting to experience joint pain, particularly in her shoulder. Her decision to join the centre was finally influenced by a regular diabetes check-up that highlighted a reading exceeding 9mmol/1-6,,ol/l being the average. Her recent spell of feeling uninspired, unmotivated and discouraged meant that diabetes medication was now necessary.

Paula said: “Andy, the centre manager, showed me all the facilities.”

Fast forward a few weeks and Paula was attending the gym 3-4 times each week, working with one of the centre’s fitness instructors.

She added: “Together, we built a plan that was effective and achievable. I do really enjoy my gym sessions, achieving and exceeding my targets and reassessing the plan when I feel the need to.”

In July 2021, Paula had a follow-up with her diabetic nurse, who was pleased to report her figures had dropped from 9mmol/l to 7.5mmol/l. She had noticed a significant improvement in her shoulder too.

Paula said: “I really could not have achieved this without the fabulous support of the great team at Chanctonbury Leisure Centre. The facilities and choice of classes available are second-to-none, and whilst I go on my own, I’m with friends every time I am there. I have regained my confidence, my mental health is much more settled and my physical health is the best it’s been for quite a long while.”