Liz Fenne joined Be Military Fit on her 50th birthday in 1999. Being born into a military environment (her father a Bugle Major RM) and then joining the WRAC staff band at 17, "it was almost a natural forward step to join BE Military Fit" says Liz.
During her 13 yrs in the military, she would often perform marching displays and gave bandstand concerts in Stoke Park in Guildford for various events, so when a new outdoor bootcamp in the same park was advertised, she decided to check it out!
By now Liz had left the military, married and gone one to have three children, leaving little time for a fitness regime.
"running around in squad formation on my first Bmf session was a massive shock . My fitness level was 0."
But this did not hold her back and she came back for more, the camaraderie , military jargon and banter among the members reminding her of her time in the military, making her quickly feel at home.
Over the years, while Liz hasn't focused on running marathons or 10ks, she's proud of her physical accomplishments, including reaching 75 years old in good health.
"I refuse to acknowledge age related symptoms by ‘getting a grip’ and being generally stubborn, and probably being a pain!!!"
After her Christian faith and family, Be Military Fit has become increasingly important to Liz, particularly since COVID during which she feels they have become a close-knit family across the parks run by trainers Gareth and Jason, who she attributes playing a significant role in her fitness journey since the pandemic.
"Everyone is always only encouraging and friendly so therefore many friendships have been formed with social occasions often taking place."
As one of Be Military Fit's oldest members, Liz believes there's no excuse for anyone not to be fit enough and her ongoing enthusiam regularly encourages others to join. Striving to make everyone feel welcome and supported, just as she was when she first joined, Liz fondly recalls her first instructors, whose unwavering support and encouragement inspired her.
"Dave stayed with me when I was always miles behind trying to keep going.He was an inspiration to me!!"
Liz, your dedication to the program and your positive attitude have undoubtedly inspired others to join and stay committed to their fitness goals. Congratulations on 25 years with Be Military Fit!
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