
BMF: VICKY'S STORY #BEBMF
August 30, 2016
Topics:
There is a common misconception that British Military Fitness (BMF) instructors shout and bark orders, so in a bid to overturn this misunderstanding, we followed BMF instructor Vicky for the day. The only time Vicky's voice was raised was when she was letting out her infectious laughter - something that happened as frequently in a BMF class as it did when around her two young children:
What were you doing before BMF?
Before I started BMF I had quite a few different jobs. I was a truck driver in the Army and left in '06. I was also a driving instructor and worked in various gyms and studios, but it wasn't until I joined BMF in '08 that I really became a lot happier.
What got you into BMF in the first place?
My husband worked for BMF in Derby and I had thought it was just for ex personal training instructors (PTI's) but was pleased to learn that I could teach with my level 2 qualification - and that I would be able to train further through the BMF Academy if I wanted to.
What is it that’s kept you with BMF for so many years?
BMF has become more of a hobby that I get paid for! It's like a social meet up and everyone is always buzzing after the session. When you know you've created that feeling for everyone it's great. Why would I want to leave?!
How does a BMF class compare to military training?
Some things are similar, such as feeling part of a team and having that squaddie banter with the other instructors and members. However, what's really different is that unlike what a lot of people think, you'll never get shouted at if you're struggling. If I shout, it's usually because I'm calling people over from the other side of the park, or calling out encouragement. In the military we're trained to work together and part of that is supporting each other and working together - that definitely comes across in a BMF class as you'll be getting an all-over body workout but with the encouragement of not just myself as the instructor, but from the other members too!
What do you love most about working for BMF?
The people. I get to have such a laugh with the members and other instructors and the members. But on top of that, we get results and people transforming their lives through BMF. Lots of members change their way of life through BMF. There's a member at Sutton who was told by his Doctor that he needed to lose weight, so he started BMF in his 50's having never done exercise before in his life, and he said he's in better shape now than he was in his 20s and 30s! He's even now doing mud runs and adventure challenges. To see people who can't run in their first session end up in running around with our red bib (intermediate) level members is brilliant!
What do you think is the main thing BMF can offer to members?
If you want to get fit and enjoy your workout then BMF is the perfect answer. I know lots of people who have made life long friends though the social side of BMF, which you wouldn't find with many other fitness providers. How many places can you get fit whilst having a great time around some of your closest friends?
What emotions would you expect everyone to feel at the end of a class?
At the end of a BMF class, everyone is buzzing with lots of energy. It's the perfect way to start or end your day.