Clarice’s Story

I haven’t always been a personal trainer. But I was inspired to become one after using fitness to turn my life around. I hope my story will inspire others to achieve their own personal fitness goals.

My story began in my home country of Cameroon. Due to instability and turmoil there, I fled and came to the UK as a refugee in 2000. I was suffering with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in a strange country, with no support and nowhere to turn. I found myself in a toxic relationship and then abandoned and alone with three children under five to raise by myself.

Struggling with motivation

To say I was in a bad place is to put it mildly. I was depressed, obese and could barely get out of bed in the mornings to send my children to school. It got to a point where I had to do something or risk losing my children.

It was at this, the most testing of times, that I discovered who I really was and what I was able to achieve through fitness. I quickly found I didn’t like the gym, so I forced myself to go out walking.

Outdoor activity saved my life

Then, something amazing happened. Slowly, my mood began to lift as I exercised. And the more I was active, the more my mind-set shifted in a positive direction. I quickly moved from being inactive to becoming very active. I soon discovered that I loved running! Before long, that five kilometres turned into ten, and then I decided to run a marathon!

In 2018, I ran 14 marathons in one year! The transformation has been amazing. Running really did save my life – not just in fleeing from Cameroon but also in finding a passion that keeps me motivated, fit and healthy.

I now regularly run both short distance – 5km and 10km – as well as marathons and half-marathons. Quite an achievement for someone who used to get out of breath just walking up the stairs!

Turning a fitness passion into a business

Knowing how I managed to transform my life through fitness, I decided to become a personal trainer. I wanted to help encourage and educate other people about keeping active and how small changes can make a big difference.

And so Clarice Fitness emerged. I want to share in the special journey with my clients. Unlike other personal trainers I do not shout, demand or growl. I seek to inspire my clients to find the power within and do that little bit more with each session or class.

I’ve been there; I know it’s hard. But it’s a lot easier together! Fitness is the first step in changing your whole life.

Take your first steps on your journey to fitness now!