In their own words
The fittest and strongest they’ve ever been
Two of our members used almost exactly those words when they wrote about training here. One of them is 68. These are their stories, and a few more, word for word.
Jemma · As seen on ITV News West Country
From never enjoying exercise to putting herself first
Jemma had always had an issue with her weight, and the bigger she got, the harder it felt to start. She wanted something that would give her a bit of confidence and show her she could do it.
Training with Paul helped her lose weight she’d never managed to shift before. In November 2025 she was filmed at the gym for the NHS South West “Stay Active” campaign and featured on ITV News West Country, where she talked about what had changed:
It’s really improved my mental wellbeing. I was in a really high pressured, stressful job. I made a really big decision, changed my job completely and I’m a lot nicer to live with now and I’m a lot less stressed and a lot happier.
Everybody goes to an exercise class for the first time at some point. So, they’ve all been there and everybody I’ve met is so supportive. It’s the one thing you can do for yourself that nobody else can do. So, actually put yourself first and just go for it.
Jemma, on ITV News West Country
Mechelle · Google review
Living with chronic pain, and stronger than ever
Mechelle had come to Be:Unique for massage since it opened, but avoided the gym itself: cardio could knock her out for days. She’d put on weight, felt lethargic, and wanted to support her health through the menopause.
She started with a weekly one-to-one session to learn the equipment and how to set up the weights. Her goal changed along the way:
I’ve not lost loads of weight, but I have lost inches and more importantly, I’m stronger. I’m lifting more than I ever thought I could imagine.
Take the plunge, try it out, you won’t regret it.
Mechelle
I’m the fittest and strongest I’ve ever been. Recently helping me through cancer treatment, I don’t think I’d be here if I hadn’t got as healthy as I did. Thank you Paul & be unique.
It’s more than a gym, I’m the fittest & strongest I’ve ever been. It’s literally changed my life.
I am 67 years old and have trained with Paul for over 13 years and it is no exaggeration to say that he has transformed my attitude to physical fitness, strength and mental well being.
BeUnique has changed my life. It’s not just a gym, it’s a community where everyone is valued and respected. It really is unique.
I love being a member of Be:Unique because I feel comfortable training knowing I have the support of the trainers and other members. Love being part of one big family.
A friendly and nurturing environment providing the necessary skill set to develop and realise your goals. Orchestrated through a wealth of knowledge and experience.
Google reviews
Reviews from Google
I’ve never really stuck at anything exercise related before or found excuses but this time is different. The team are amazing, other members are really friendly … I wish I found this place sooner. Who knew I would come to love going to the gym! Can’t recommend enough!
I’m lifting more than I ever thought I could imagine, I’m motivated by my PT and the gym itself is like a little gym family and I look forward to going.
All the staff are understanding and welcoming of all levels of fitness and will guide you on your own path to healthy living … After never being a “gym person” before I’d highly recommend joining here!!
Through the excellent 1-to-1 coaching, I now have the confidence to exercise any day or time of the week.
What an amazing place to train and get fitter. All the staff and clients are so helpful and completely non judgemental. A wonderful atmosphere for everyone.
Great welcome from Be:Unique as a new member and having never used a gym. Fantastic family/team feeling
The staff are helpful and knowledgeable and non judgemental. I love going there.
Fantastic gym, totally relaxed atmosphere and sessions to suit all ages
Your story starts with one session
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