Members Testimonials

Alison Carr - IT Manager

When I started training with Gary I had a very low esteem. I was overweight, lacked confidence, and didn’t feel good about myself. At 51 I didn’t have youth on my side either. With the varying age range and fitness levels in the class I kept thinking that I was going to be the ridicule of the class and pull everyone back.

Nearly a year on I can honestly say not once did I ever feel that way. The classes are friendly, supportive and fun. Training outdoors has to be the best. We have parks in Newcastle that I had heard of but had never actually seen their beauty. Rain, hail or snow I am there and I love it.

Gary has my measure now and he knows what I can achieve and helps me to that goal which I really appreciate. Gary is really committed to getting fitness levels up and I can honestly say he has achieved this with me “the couch potato”

I now love going out on a Saturday night in a little black number without feeling I have to hide in a corner. 

Thank You Gary, You’re a Star x

Tom Kellett - Project manager

I would love to take part in a triathlon. With training at ODFC I feel that this is achievable. The classes challenge me to push harder and extend my limits and all this is done in an enjoyable environment. I even enjoy the classes when it rains.

Valerie Munro - Administrator

  • Weight: 10 Stone
  • Height: 5’ 6”
  • Exercise levels at start: Fair to good

Never worked towards goals although always been a gym member.

The classes ensure you get fit with good structure and hard training at every level. Sessions encourage you to get fit and try harder in a fun approach. I really enjoy the outdoor aspect which I also believe is a healthier option than the gym.

Ann - Student

  • Weight: 60 KG
  • Age: 22
  • Fitness Achievements: National Handball Champion

 I enjoy the classes as they do get me fitter. They are hard but fun.

Ian Wills - Network Administrator

I used to do a lot of weight training, but hadn’t really done much cardiovascular stuff and I always hated running.  After giving up weight training about 8 years ago because of injury I began to pile the weight on.  I tried going back to the gym but couldn’t really get motivated.  I also tried dieting, but could never usually last more than a few weeks. 

Eventually I was persuaded by a work colleague to join the ODFC.  I’m now 2 ½ stone lighter and fitter than I have been for 20 years. 

Gary gives me the motivation to push myself harder than I have ever done before.  The sessions are so varied, that you never know what to expect when you turn up.  The locations are beautiful and it’s great to breathe the fresh air while training.  I never knew it could be so much fun doing things like sit-ups and press-ups in the rain or snow.

There is a very broad range of age and ability in the classes and everyone is friendly and full of encouragement.  Nobody should be put off because of age, weight or ability.  Gary is a great motivator, but so is the enthusiasm and encouragement that you receive from fellow class mates.

I guarantee that everyone who comes to Gary’s classes will have fun and push themselves more than they ever thought possible. 

Stretching in the sun

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