Instead of complaining about feeling old, why not become a stronger, leaner, healthier and more energised version of your current self? Whether you’re looking for group fitness classes or personal training, here’s a boutique fitness and Pilates studio in Singapore that specialises in helping women over 40 get fitter and more confident in a non-judgy, women-only setting. We speak to the owner of the female-run fitness studio, and hear from three women who have gotten great results from the personalised workouts.
Women empowering women
As a woman in her 40s who’s had two kids and battled breast cancer, ALY KHAIRUDDIN has had her fair share of ups and downs – not just in the weight department, but in strength as well. Left weakened after cancer treatment, she was determined to regain her strength and lose the weight she’d gained during treatment – and she did, by changing her exercise and eating habits. Aly was also able to boost her immunity, thanks to a regular exercise routine – something to keep in mind amid the coronavirus crisis. (Exercising 30 to 60 minutes a day can increase the circulation of the virus-killing cells, she says).
Feeling empowered, Aly wanted other women to feel this sense of empowerment, too. So, she opened FitNut Loft, where women could get stronger, leaner and pain-free alongside other supportive women.
But, FitNut Loft is more than just a Pilates studio, and more than just a gym. It’s a full-on fitness community that, quite frankly, looks fun to be a part of.
“It’s a place where women over the age of 40 can feel safe, non-judged and gain the confidence to make their health as a priority, while having fun. We help them get stronger, fitter and to be more mindful of their actions, which will stay with them forever,” says Aly, who is a STOTT-Pilates certified instructor and certified personal trainer. “We work with women regardless of what conditions they have so that in six months they can feel a difference and see a difference, and have others see it too.”
The FitNut Loft formula
It’s all about combining weight and strength training with Pilates, mindfulness and nutrition here. As a certified nutrition coach, Aly is all about helping women ditch the dieting mentality for good, and getting healthier and happier through nutritious eating and exercise.
And, the women who come to FitNut Loft work out hard – which is why they see excellent results, says Aly. They show up consistently, and push themselves with each and every workout.
The studio offers one-on-one fitness sessions, as well as six different group classes. The signature class is FitNut Circuit, which combines weight circuits and Pilates for maximum results. Not only does weight training help build muscle, but it can also burn fat for up to 36 hours.
In addition to Circuit, the studio’s classes include Reformer, Mat, Release (great for those who want more of a rehabilitative class), the suspension training-based Jungle, and Cardio – a circuit-style class that combines cardio-trampolining with reformer Pilates and floor work. All classes are kept small (up to four to six participants, depending on the class) to ensure personalised attention is given to everyone.
Hear from 3 Fit Nutters…
#1 Joyce
Initially looking to get fitter, stronger and more flexible following menopause, Joyce (56) discovered FitNut Loft four years ago and has been a regular client ever since. Then, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she turned to the studio to help her recover from surgery, chemo and radiotherapy in a supportive setting.
“By the end of my treatment I felt like a shell of my former self. I had no energy, strength or confidence and consequently felt very low. I had taken a break from FitNut during my treatment but Aly and her team had kept in touch, offering encouragement and support. Knowing Aly had been through something similar, I felt that resuming my classes could be a great starting point for another kind of treatment; regaining my confidence, and mental and physical strength. I knew Aly’s classes had given me great results before my diagnosis, and I felt safe and supported in that environment.
“I love the fact we get to train together as a group of like-minded, supportive people. The results are simply amazing and we each get individual feedback. The workouts are always varied, and great fun with a wonderful group atmosphere – it doesn’t even fell like a class at all!”
#2 Charlotte
Charlotte (37) has been training at FitNut Loft three times a week for the past year. She particularly enjoys the Circuit, Reformer and Jungle classes.
“I love the small class size and attention to detail, and that everything is tailored to the individual. I always found it hard to stick to exercise. Now, it’s just part of my week and I never miss a class. My back is now pain-free and I feel so much stronger. I can even see muscles I didn’t know I had! I feel comfortable at FitNut, and I know I’ll always be challenged in the right way.”
#3 Caroline
British expat Caroline (48) has been working with FitNut Loft three times a week for over two years now. An avid tennis player, she wanted to improve her game and reduce her risk of injury by ensuring she was as strong as possible. Additionally, she found herself with a bit more time during the day as her children were getting older, so she also wanted to pursue a new hobby. FitNut Circuit, which combines Pilates and weights, proved to be a perfect fit.
“After one class, I was hooked! Apart from getting to work out with a lovely group of women, I love the choice of classes and the flexible booking system. Small class sizes mean we get a lot of attention from Aly and her team, and really get the most out of each class. Exercising regularly has definitely made me feel stronger. It has resulted in better muscle definition and improved stamina. In general, I feel great!”
How to get started
If you’re looking to improve your energy levels, stamina, flexibility and overall fitness in a comfortable setting, surrounded by supportive women, go on and schedule a call with FitNut Loft! After your initial chat, you’ll be booked in for an in-person consultation; Aly will work with you to plan a programme tailored to meet your individual goals.
FitNut Loft
2 Pandan Valley, #01-201
8686 8299 | hello@fitnutloft.com
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