STEPHENIE MCCANN 
I tried to improve myself many a time and failed.
The pressure seemed to get to me. I started experiencing panic attacks and stopped caring for myself. I entered a particularly difficult time in my life where I noticed myself gaining weight. Friends, family and work colleagues all noticed a subtle decline in my emotional state.
One day I pushed myself and joined a local gym where I met new people and gained inspiration by listening to the stories of their journeys. I realised the fitness culture was a family. I felt welcomed. I felt strong. I found I had the ability to train and learn new skills from others. I was able to gain a level of strength I didn't know I was capable of.
Through hard work, help from friends and dedication, I found myself gaining confidence every day. All of a sudden, I felt strong and powerful. Not beat down by anxiety and depression.
My training became the thing that pulled me from my despair. I could breath again and I now have a sense of purpose and a continuously moving goal to work towards.
Friends and family have noticed my confidence grow and comment on how happy I seem. They want to know my secret.
My secret is simple. Join the family that is the fitness world and enjoy seeing the results not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. It is not an obsession, it is not a hobby. It is a way of life and without it, I wouldn't be the person I am today. Strong. Encouraged. Dedicated. Passionate
