09/09/2026
"I'M TOO OLD TO START NOW" ... 👵
It's probbaly one of the biggest excuses we tell ourselves with a lot of new things: a new language, playing an instrument and even exercise.
✨So we looked at the actual research. Here's what 3 major studies found:
A 2019 study of over 315,000 people (Saint-Maurice et al., JAMA Network Open) found that people who only started exercising in their 40s, 50s, and 60s had a 35% lower risk of early death, almost identical to people who'd been active their whole lives.
A 2023 study of over 22,000 people aged 80+ (Yan et al., Preventive Medicine) found that people who went from sedentary to active, even in their 80s and even with existing health conditions, still lived longer than those who stayed sedentary. Lead researcher Prof. Lijing Yan put it simply: "It's never too late to start. The key is to get active."
A 2025 review of 85 studies covering 7 million people (Yu et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine) found that people who switched from inactive to active were 22% less likely to die from any cause, and those who simply moved more saw a 27% drop in mortality risk.
The takeaway is the same every time: your body doesn't care what age you start. It rewards you either way.🎉
If you've been putting it off because you think it's "too late," it's not. Send us a message if you'd like some friendly advice on where to start. No pressure, no judgement.💕
08/09/2026
Annie's story ♥️
What a, delight it has been to join Gymophobics in Sudbury!
I attend 3 times a week(I could go as often as I like), at a time to suit me, and I know I will have a careful and considered half hour workout programme that is personal, suits my needs, and is regularly updated.
I have really seen a difference.
I am fitter, stronger, trimmer & more toned - lots of friends have commented!
The staff are always friendly, encouraging & knowledgeable & the atmosphere in the gym from members & staff is welcoming and supportive.
My only regret is not starting Gymophobics years ago! ! 😊
Thanks everyone!
Annie
07/09/2026
Team Summer, Autumn, Winter or Spring? 🌳🍂🎄🌸
Comment your answers below!👇
04/09/2026
We love celebrating the incredible journeys of our members and the changes they make, both physically and mentally.
✨ Meet Jayne from Gymophobics Nantwich ✨
Before Jayne joined Gymophobics, she was experiencing the grief of losing her son, dad and husband in a short period of time. Jayne knew this was the time to look after herself and start a new chapter in her life, and a ladies-only gym seemed appealing.
Two years later, Jayne is still a member and recently completed a charity skydive for Epilepsy Research Institute UK, smashing her fundraising target with the support of the Nantwich Gymophobics community!
Here's what Jayne had to say about her journey:
"Gymophobics was amazing!! From all the staff who kept me motivated and focused, to all the lovely ladies who offered words of encouragement and support. But also overwhelmingly, the generosity of everyone who sponsored me and helped me raise a substantial amount towards my fundraising target.
So ladies, whatever struggles you have, join Gymophobics, give yourself some 'me time': 2 or 3 half-hour sessions per week and you will soon be feeling the benefits, both mentally and physically. I do and you can too!!"
Jayne, you are truly an inspiration to us all here at Gymophobics, and we thank you for sharing this journey with us. We love to see your happiness, confidence and achievements 🩷
01/09/2026
Started with Gymophobics 3 months ago with my Mum, mainly for her to begin with as she wanted to get moving again. The ladies that work there made sure I had a programme specific to me, that challenged me, and I soon found that my sleep improved as did my mental health. I have had my programme tweeked every 10 sessions, as we all do, so as to keep it enjoyable and challenging. I found it hard to get into a routine to begin with but now I look forward to going and the benefits continue to come. I can't remember the last time my sciatica played up! It has given my Mum a new lease of life and something for us to do together, or alone on the days one of us can't make it. I now make use of the extra work outs upstairs for more cardio and specific work outs for certain problem areas. Most of all, I love Gymophobics for the people in it, those who work there and those exercising like me, as there is a no judgments environment and we are all behind each other!
Carly's story 💜
31/08/2026
Janet's story 🥰
Gymophobics, based in Sudbury, Suffolk was one of three "pumping iron" options which I chose to explore on Monday the 2nd of March 2026.
Quite frankly, it was the only gym that impressed me and where I felt truly comfortable. This was because the lady instructor on duty that morning was very warm and friendly. She was also extremely knowledgeable and made sure that I was made aware of everything I needed to know about using a gym for the very first time in my life at the age of 68.
I was also offered two informative booklet and some other related paperwork.
On return from our holiday, I booked a formal induction at the site on Friday the 13th of March and was given the opportunity to try out the equipment provided, which was an eye opener!
My fitness journey at Gymophobics began on Tuesday the 17th of March, and initially, it was quite a learning curve.
I've never once regretted joining this "ladies only" gym and have noticed a marked improvement in my general mobility and muscle strength, which is excellent!
The atmosphere is always very helpful and positive here. I wish I'd joined up years ago but, moving forward, I'm hoping to remain a regular customer of Gymophobics forever! 💞💞
30/08/2026
We love celebrating the incredible journeys of our members and the changes they make, both physically and mentally.
✨ Meet Jenny from Gymophobics ✨
When Jenny joined Gymophobics, she never imagined she would become someone who genuinely enjoyed going to the gym.
But with the support of our amazing instructors and the welcoming atmosphere, Jenny has built her confidence, improved her fitness and discovered a new love for exercise 💪
Here’s what Jenny had to say about her journey:
"The friendly atmosphere and the expert support from the staff who are just lovely. I feel they are really interested in my journey.
I feel much better in myself and better about myself. I have a sense of achievement. I look forward to coming and walk out glowing.
I never thought I would be someone who found gyms fun. I truly was a Gymophobic!"
Jenny, thank you for sharing your journey with us. We love seeing the confidence, happiness and achievements you have gained through Gymophobics 🩷
28/08/2026
How long have you been coming to Gymophobics for?
We would love to know! Why not also include your favourite Gymophobics memeory as well!☀️
25/08/2026
Today we would like to remember the life of Dolly Parton💕
Dolly Parton had such a wonderful way of words, a few appearing on our socials throughout the years. Her words have a great way of putting life into perspective. Whether it be in encouragement, laughter or reminding us to be kind. Her words have always left a mark.
Some we would like to share with everyone today is:
“If you see someone without a smile, give them yours” 💕
A simple reminder to be kind to others, as we don’t always know what their day is bringing.
We will miss Dolly’s wonderful charisma, talent that went far beyond her music, and words that have incredible wisdom.
Thank you for all the smiles Dolly 💐