Member Spotlight: Gill.M

One of our ‘top movers’, Gill shares her story of keeping active, and how Beam helps her not only move more, but keep in touch with the community too.

How do you feel about physical activity?

I know it’s important to keep yourself active and particularly as you age. It’s even more important to me as I have osteoporosis, diagnosed following a fracture (picture below is me with broken arm at top of Snowdon!). I know being active helps with this condition, my bone density improved greatly after treatment, but I’m sure Pilates, walking and other exercise contributed too.

What barriers have you had to keeping active?

I love Zumba, but when I was on peritoneal dialysis I found it to be uncomfortable and didn’t enjoy it as much. Also, my husband and I were part of a live kidney sharing scheme with two other couples in 2014, he donated one of his, and I received my own transplant! Following this, I was nervous about exercising again, but missed moving.

What has helped you to overcome your barriers to moving more?

Having reassurance from my Kidney doctors and confidence to start something new has helped. I discovered Pilates, and really enjoy that. I think finding something you really enjoy is important too.

How has Beam helped you to keep active or changed your perspective on physical activity?

I have really felt the benefit of Kidney Beam. All the instructors are excellent, giving clear guidance and individual help where needed. I never wish a class to be over! I think there is something for everyone to try, with on demand classes and training sessions of varying lengths. Eg Rosie’s 15 minute HIIT On Demand, or longer yoga sessions. I have been taking Pilates with Sharlene regularly both live, and on demand. It feels quite special to have this opportunity and see and speak to people in a similar situation to myself, so I really enjoy the community aspect as well.

What else makes you feel good?

I enjoy walking, especially on the coast. I also spend time sewing, while listening to podcasts on the radio or audio books. I have made lots of masks, including 30 individually embroidered for my daughter’s wedding, but we only needed 15 of them in the end!!

Feeling inspired by Gill and ready to try a session?

All classes can be taken at your own pace, and if you’re feeling nervous, let the instructor know and they’ll be sure to reassure you. You can start with an On Demand session, or get active with a Live Class and join the rest of the Kidney Beam community.

Remember, the Beam Team is here to support you too, so if you have any questions about starting classes, please feel free to get in touch with us at hello@kidneybeam.com .