A former fitness-phobe turned exercise instructor is hoping to win town council support to launch a series of outdoor classes for women in Sidmouth.
Janey Holliday wants to start a three-month trial of her Fit for a Princess classes on the Ham to inspire women, especially mums, to get outdoors and to work out.
The mum-of-three despised exercise until attending a class that ‘changed her life’, resulting in her selling her home and quitting her job to help others get into shape.
After qualifying as an instructor, she launched Fit for a Princess in Wandsworth, London in 2006.
The 40-year-old says she is confident she can turn ‘fitness rejects into fitness fanatics’ as the classes are tailored to members of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels.
Janey, who lives in Temple Street, Sidmouth, said: “I really, really, hated exercise and one day went to this class that changed my life. I need my sanity - it is me time.
“It isn’t just about results, I really believe that people need to find something they can do forever.
“I believe that every type of woman, no matter your size, how unfit, or if you have an injury, can do exercise. We can tailor the class to anyone.
“No-one is going to shout at you, it is a really encouraging environment.”
Her proposal would see classes run four times a week from April 21 and July 13, consisting of hour-long sessions
Women will be able to bring their children to the class, either in their prams or sitting on a blanket and playing while their mums work out.
Janey said she wanted to aim her classes at mums as she felt that existing fitness sessions in Sidmouth often catered towards the young or the elderly and her idea had already received a lot of support.
She said the Ham would be the perfect location as it would be close to toilets and near parking, as well as provide a flat space for safety reasons.
Janey said: “It is also essential to respect local residents and the park environment, so I teach with my back to the houses to minimise noise and also ensure the grass is left the way I found it.”
The proposals will be discussed by Sidmouth Town Council on Monday night.
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