Instructor Spotlight: Christy Walklin
Tell us about yourself!
I'm Christy, and I am a Physiotherapist currently working for Kings College Hospital in the Renal Rehab Team that also works on Beam. I joined the team in 2021 and lead some of the live Get Active and Stay Active classes. Previously I worked in musculoskeletal outpatients for three years and have worked privately in sport settings.
In the next few months I will be working more on the research side of things for the Kidney Beam Research Project and will be trying to recruit and assess more patients for the study.
What inspired you to go into physiotherapy and renal rehab?
I fractured my elbow as a child after tripping on a tree root (not the most exciting story) and the care I received from all healthcare professionals was amazing but I found the physiotherapist I met brilliant and so knowledgeable. I enjoyed Biology and Physical Education at school and thought Physiotherapy would be the best way to combine the two. I wasn’t wrong! I have recently joined Renal Rehab and am loving working in the team!
What’s your favourite way to keep active?
I enjoy cycling to and from work and have done ever since I’ve lived in London. I think it is a great way to explore the city and I much prefer it to public transport. By commuting on the bike it has led me to trying longer cycle rides like cycling to Brighton from London and pushed me to train for triathlons. Over the last year running and cycling has been a great focus and allowed me to find some head space.
How do you think Beam can benefit people living with Kidney Disease?
So many people have completed 12 weeks of Renal Rehab classes and have felt stronger, more in control of their bodies and have wanted to keep going. It is great to see and to be a part of! Beam is so flexible you can do it from anywhere which is amazing! The Beam community encourages people who are maybe less active to keep moving and build amazing healthy habits.
How do you relax and unwind?
Headphones in listening to my favourite cricketing podcast ‘Tailenders’ with Greg James, Felix White and the GOAT Jimmy Anderson whilst walking along the Thames with the sun out. The river is my happy place.
Where's the first place you plan to travel once COVID-19 allows?
If the river is my happy place. The Netherlands is my happy country. My partner's family are half Dutch and I love nothing more than exploring the canals, eating stroopwafels and drinking a Heineken or two. The people are so welcoming and have a great sense of humour. Can’t wait to pack my bags!
Want to Get Moving?
Check out our Live Classes - Get Active and Stay Active with the Renal Rehab Team, 10am Monday - Thursday
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 enjoy 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 - hello@beamfeelgood.com