Louise’s Story

Louise YMCA Y:Active Member

“I became healthier, fitter and 7 stone lighter”

Louise Darbyshire

Age: 40
Membership: Y:Active Gold Member

My journey began in January 2012. I was approaching my 40th birthday, a smoker and “medically obese” at nearly 18 stone. I could say I had a reality check. I don’t know what caused me to look at myself, but myself and my partner realised that we could not sustain our existing lifestyle.

We decided without much drama to give up smoking and embark on a fitness programme with the YMCA.

During 2012, we used the gym, pool and cardio classes. I became healthier, fitter and 7 stone lighter. I also became so much more confident that attending the classes and the gym became a social occasion. I have made so many new friends whose stories are truly inspirational.

It can feel like an unreachable goal but I am living proof that it can be done and it can be an enjoyable and sociable experience.

Latest News & Events

Spinning Fylde Coast

YMCA Fylde Coast Becomes an Official Spinning® Facility & Partners with PROS 2025 Conference!

Sara with Active Wellness Staff

Sara’s Inspiring Journey with YMCA Fylde Coast’s Active Wellness Suite

David & Janet

David & Janet: Inspiring A New Generation

Refurbishments YMCA Fleetwood Poulton Thornton

Important Updates for Refurbishments at YMCA Fleetwood, Poulton, and Thornton

Members Stories

Lucie winning bronze medal

More Success for Lucie at the European Championships

Slimming World Woman of the Year

Victoria YMCA’s Transformation

Lucie 3

YMCA Instructor Lucie Marsh Shines at the World Karate Championships 2024

GO/CS/SN

Active Wellness Suite Officially Opens at YMCA Thornton