Purnima’s story
For me, exercise has truly been the best medicine.
In 2013, I was diagnosed with multiple illnesses, and for the next 5 years, I endured severe chronic pain and fatigue on a daily basis. Determined to improve my health and avoid relying on medication or surgery, I turned to exercise to alleviate my pain.
At first, I struggled to find a facility that offered low-impact exercise options suitable for my condition. I joined a regular gym but quickly found that my health limitations made it difficult to use their equipment effectively. Without the right guidance or equipment tailored to my abilities, progress was slow and frustrating. This experience inspired me to create a solution for women facing similar challenges. I wanted to offer a safe, supportive environment where they could exercise comfortably, using equipment designed to meet their needs and improve their health and wellbeing.
In September 2016, I opened Stockport Health and Fitness Centre (SHFC), equipped with power-assisted machines that provide low-impact exercise options. Since then, we’ve seen many successes, helping members recover from conditions like sciatica, frozen shoulders, and post-surgery rehabilitation. We’ve also assisted people in managing chronic conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and stroke.
Even as I've been diagnosed with additional age-related conditions over the years, staying active through exercise and making lifestyle changes has allowed me to maintain my best health for nearly a decade. For me, exercise has truly been the best medicine.
Inspired and want to find out what’s available to help you get active? Find groups and organisations near you in the Stockport Live Well directory.
To find out more about how sports and fitness have improved the lives of women and girls in Stockport, continue to Ann’s story.