TODAY is National Fitness Day - a whole day dedicated to getting out and about - exercising and keeping fit.
This year's theme is 'Your health is your life' on the UK's most active day of the year with hundreds of people across St Helens being inspired to try something new or continue on their fitness journey.
Today, Wednesday, is aimed at encouraging people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to recognise and celebrate the life-long physical and mental benefits of being active.
With the support of Movember and Endurance Zone, National Fitness Day will support people taking their first step on their health journey.
Earlier this year, we searched for St Helens' best fitness of gym instructor.
We wanted to celebrate yoga and pilates instructors, body pump and spin teachers and personal trainers and we put together a top ten.
Ashley-James Ward from Award Health and Fitness was the runaway winner beating off some tough competition for the second year in a row.
Here are the shortlisted top ten - will you book a class or workout session on National Fitness Day?
OUR TEN BEST FOR FITNESS FINALISTS:
Libby Mae Langham
Libby Langham, Libby Mae Fitness Studio
Libby’s classes are “welcoming, friendly and always positive” and are available from 5.30am!
Another said: “The best fitness classes with a lovely bunch of girls.
“No judgements and we have loads of fun.”
For more details go to facebook.com/libbymaefit
Lorraine Hughes
Lorraine Hughes, Hughes Sport Karate Academy
Lorraine is “an amazing coach” and “goes above and beyond for anyone”.
One nomination said: “She is truly amazing and loves seeing children and adults achieve their full potential.”
For more details go to facebook.com/HughesSportKarateAcademy
Nicky Hegarty
Nicky Hegarty, NPH Fitness, Prescot
One happy client said NPH Fitness is “second to none” as the classes are so “varied, uplifting and empowering”.
Another said she is a “fantastic trainer” and she has classes and sessions for all levels of fitness and ability.
For more details go to facebook.com/nicky.hegarty
Matt Scaife
Matt Scaife, Fitness MATTers, St Helens
One review on Matt’s Facebook page said: “These are really enjoyable sessions.
“I’m getting consistent, long-term results that can be maintained.
“Matt knows his stuff and I’d definitely recommend him.”
For more details go to facebook.com/fitnessmatterspt
Leanne Belshaw
Leanne Belshaw, Fitness Beyond The Bump, St Helens
Leanne’s classes are “absolutely brilliant and always good fun” with everyone welcome.
One recommendation said: “I’m not a gym or fitness person and I absolutely love going!
“Leanne puts everyone at ease and makes us all feel comfortanble.
“She definitely deserves this award.”
For more details go to facebook.com/fitnessbeyondthebump
Danny Arnold
Danny Arnold, Axe & Hammer Fitness, St Helens
When someone says “Danny is the best personal trainer I’ve ever worked with”, it’s high praise and enough to earn him a place on our shortlist.
The nomination said: “He makes everyone feel welcome and included and is always encouraging and supportive throughout his classes and PT sessions.”
For more details go to facebook.com/axeandhammerfitness
Ashley-James Award, Award Health and Fitness, St Helens
Ashley-James won this title in 2022 – can he win back-to-back awards and be named Best for Fitness 2023?
One nomination said: “Ashley-James is a very supportive, adaptive trainer who tailor makes sessions to fit clients’ needs.
“He pushes everyone to get the most out of each session as well as offering education around nutrition and physiology.”
For more details go to facebook.com/AWARDHANDF
Jamie-Lee Toal
Jamie-Lee Toal, Heart and Sole Ladies Fitness and Personal Training
Jamie makes clients “look forward to exercise” even if their lives are busy and they’re struggling to fit in a session.
One 66-year-old didn’t think they’d be able to get back into training and regular exercise but Jamie made this happen through “motivation and support”.
For more details go to facebook.com/HeartandSolePT
Liz Smith
Liz Smith, Bounce, St Helens
Liz is “the absolute best and I love her classes” said one happy regular.
She added: “Bounce was new to me when I started and Liz was so welcoming and supportive.
“Definitely the best in St Helens.”
For more details go to facebook.com/LizSmithBounce
Kim O'Neale
Kim O’Neale, Trim with Kim, St Helens
Kim is “without question” the best as she has always got “new ideas and so much knowledge”.
One nomination said: “For a lady of a certain age, Kim could certainly give the young ones a run for their money.
“She proves it pays to keep moving and adapting your workouts as you get older so you stay strong and agile.”
For more details go to facebook.com/trimwithkim1
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