Fit Futures has flow-on effect

A Hamilton woman has overcome huge physical boundaries in hopes that others will follow suit and join her at the gym.

Diana Rodda, 25, has cerebral palsy. She's always had an interest in improving her physical heath, but lacked the knowledge and confidence to join a mainstream gym.

"I want to be active, give me that chance," Diana said. And Fit Futures has done just that.

She discovered Fit Futures, a 30-week personal training programme for people with physical disabilities, through her neighbour who is also a member. The benefits she has gained from her time with Fit Futures have spilled out into all other aspects of her life, which is why she is trying to spread the word and get more people involved.

"It's a gem. I have so much more confidence."

And her involvement with Fit Futures has helped Diana with the work she does as an advocate for disability support with the Disabled Persons Assembly (DPA).

"It's enabled me to get my personal experience of disability support out there in the community, and encourage others."

Diana is also studying social policy with a focus on disabilities at Waikato University.

Fit Futures founder David Robson said Diana was a great role model for others out in the community.

"The whole driving force for what we do is to reach out and help others. Diana is a great success story, she's continually challenging herself."

The word 'can't' is not in Diana's vocabulary.

"There's always a way. I hate limits. Yes I have a disability, but I can do whatever you can do. Don't dis my abilities."

Fit Futures has been operating for just over a year and is the first of its kind. With a rapidly increasing waiting list both David and Diana would like to see it expand nationwide so more people can reap the benefits the programme has to offer.

"It's sad because there is such a need out in the wider community," David said.

"The aim is to bring communities together through physical activity, and we have already had to extend our policy to 30 weeks on and 60 weeks off to allow others a chance to access our facilities."

In the 60 weeks following the 30-week program, all members are encouraged to join other gyms and community activities to further their abilities and increase their confidence.

Diana has just completed her 30-week programme and now has an eight-month membership at the Uni Rec Centre.

"Without Fit Futures and the support that David has given me, I wouldn't have seen that as part of my future, and now that I've grasped physical exercise with both hands, I can't get enough of it."

Diana said joining Fit Futures had been a gift that she wants to share with everyone.

"Don't let other people get you down. Follow your passions. There's always a way to make it happen if put your mind to it," she said.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/FitFuturesForLife.