Four years ago, at age 35, Charlotte Dickson never imagined herself confidently lifting weights, competing in fitness events or enjoying the incredible strength training benefits she now experiences. Despite her demanding role as a regional director at McLaren, she made fitness a priority. Through UFIT’s expert fitness coaching and personal training in the gym, Charlotte transformed her perspective on exercise – from purely a weight-loss tool to a journey of strength training, empowerment and balance. Here’s Charlotte’s UFIT review.
Personal training in the gym: UFIT review by Charlotte Dickson
What inspired you to start working with a personal trainer?
My journey with UFIT began during COVID through their online classes, where I connected with Coach Terri Forward. Post-lockdown, I joined her outdoor bootcamp, which sparked my deeper interest in fitness. Terri recognised my insecurities and desire to overcome them, motivating me to start personal training as the next step.
Previously, I associated exercise solely with weight loss and staying slim, but UFIT transformed my mindset, teaching me the benefits of strength training – especially for women in their mid-30s – for health, confidence and enjoyment. I’ve now been training twice a week for over four years!
How do you feel as you approach your 40s compared to when you first started personal training in the gym?
I feel better than ever! It’s been an incredibly rewarding journey of self-discovery and growth. With consistent effort and focus, I’ve learned just how capable my body is.
What’s your favourite part of your fitness routine right now?
Lifting weights! It’s so satisfying knowing I can push my limits without injury. Strength training benefits are especially important for my body as I enter peri-menopause.
What does “being in the best shape of your life” mean to you now?
It’s not about a number on a scale but the number on the barbell! Feeling strong, comfortable and secure in my body is the best feeling. Having balance in my life is also important – indulging when I want to without worrying about weight gain.
Can you tell us about a moment when you realised just how far you’ve come?
Confidently walking into a gym while travelling for work was a defining moment. For the first time, I knew exactly what to do – what exercises to perform, how to use the equipment – and felt no intimidation. Another highlight was completing HYROX with Terri, my first fitness competition. It was incredible to achieve something so challenging and feel proud of my performance.
How did your goals evolve over time with personal training in a gym?
When I first started fitness coaching, my focus was on learning the proper technique and movement foundations as a complete beginner. Over time, my goals became more strength-focused. Now, they’ve evolved further, as I’ve started competing in fitness events like HYROX and Turf Games – something I never imagined I’d do before.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in the beginning, and how did you overcome them?
Historically, I’ve struggled with body weight and body image. One of the hardest hurdles was being encouraged to eat more to improve strength, as I feared becoming “bulky”. Thankfully, Terri took the time to educate me on nutrition. Another challenge was embracing rest days – I believed more exercise equalled better results. Over time, I learned to listen to my body and noticed how much stronger I felt after proper rest and recovery. Balance truly made a difference.
How has lifting weights impacted other areas of your life beyond physical fitness?
Personal training in a gym has transformed nearly every aspect of my life. Terri has helped me understand the importance of quality sleep, managing stress, and adopting a positive, balanced approach to nutrition – that is, enjoying life’s pleasures without stressing about weight gain.
Do you have any advice for others considering starting their own fitness journey?
Firstly, being consistent is so important. Turn up regularly and commit to the journey, even when it’s tough. Progress comes with time, but also remember to be kind to yourself if you have an off week. Secondly, find the right trainer. Choose someone who understands your goals and connects with you. Thirdly, prioritise rest and recovery. Strength training and lifting weights requires rest, so focus on good sleep, hydration, proper nutrition and take rest days to let your body repair and rebuild.
Why UFIT?
For me, it’s a combination of Terri’s incredible fitness coaching and the supportive UFIT community. My UFIT review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning their Circle of Care, which has been invaluable – I see a physio every six weeks for maintenance, including massages and dry needling, to keep my body prepped for my PT sessions. On top of that, I love the weekend classes, which are included in my personal training gym programme and add variety to my routine.
Locations in CBD (Club Street), Orchard, one-north & City Hall (Fairmont Hotel)
ufit.com.sg/fitness/personal-training
This UFIT review first appeared in the January 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
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