Sarah Walters
Most people no longer stick with the same career throughout their lifetime. Sarah Walters, 50, worked as a successful doctor in medicine and was awarded with an OBE in 2004. Now, she runs her own fitness instructing business in Tamworth - thanks to leisure training provider, Lifetime.
But it's not been without its trials and tribulations. At the age of 10, Sarah was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis but vowed to pursue her lifelong ambition to become a doctor. After beating the odds, qualifying with a first class honours degree in Microbiology and a distinction in Medicine, she worked as a doctor and lecturer in medicinal and environmental health.
Sarah's illness finally took its toll and she was forced to take ill health retirement in April 2006. Not one to sit back and lead a quieter life, she fulfilled many of her passions - sports, arts and her incurable addiction of motorbikes. Sarah then completed Lifetime-s reputable Gym Instructor and Advanced Fitness Instructor courses to set up her own business, Progmasis Fitness.
Sarah says: "Having spent my life battling ill health due to an inherited condition, I recognise the value of health and the importance of maintaining fitness. When I retired from my work as a doctor and university lecturer, I trained as an aerobics and fitness instructor so I could help other people become fit and healthy and enjoy life to the full."
Lifetime's fitness instructor awards qualified Sarah to work as a Level 3 fitness instructor within a gym environment, preparing her to teach clients how to use gym equipment. She also learnt how to plan and supervise their workouts. Sarah completed both courses in Tamworth attending practical workshops and using distance learning materials which included interactive CD ROMs and workbooks.
Sarah says: "The fitness instructing courses were brilliant - really informative and enjoyable whilst allowing me to teach aerobics classes part time. The best part is the people at Lifetime. I have met some very friendly staff and fellow students and the environment is certainly a better experience than any other courses I've taken."
Sarah now teaches a wide variety of classes including step and tone, body conditioning and classical freestyle step. She also instructs clients in the gym and teaches Nordic Walking outdoors.
Later this year, she hopes to qualify as a personal trainer once completing Lifetime's Personal Training Diploma with Referred Populations.
Sarah adds: "I've never been a gym bunny but really surprised myself by how much I actually enjoy instructing people to get fit. Once completing the diploma, I'd like to combine personal training sessions with Nordic Walking and particularly help improve the lives of older people as well as those who suffer from chronic illnesses."
"I strongly believe that we can all influence our destiny, whatever our level of health. I have over 40 years of experience in sport and exercise and I enjoy a wide range of activities including aerobics, step, cycling, Nordic Walking and alpine skiing. It's never too late for anyone to achieve their goals - anything is possible."
For more information on Lifetime visit www.lifetime.co.uk or call 0117 907 8200. For details on Pragmasis Fitness visit www.pragmasis.com/fitness/.