About JJ

Between 2008 and 2011, I was in and out of hospital having leg operations due to Compartment Pressure Syndrome. As a result, I spent a lot of this period in a wheelchair, unable to do many of the things I loved, like playing sport. During recovery, I was told that my dream of playing rugby professionally was now unrealistic and that I would be lucky to ever walk or run properly again. I was unfit, unhappy and overweight, losing all confidence in myself to the point where I became a completely different person to who I wanted to be.
 

After four years of feeling hopeless, I decided it was time to change my attitude and focus on rebuilding my health. I wanted to live a fulfilling life, and I realised that my limitations were mostly in my head. Deep down, I knew that my problems stemmed from poor eating habits, lack of exercise, and overall poor health. I believed that if I changed my mindset, my body would follow suit.
 

By 2012, I was able to not only walk properly again, but run with no complications. I had worked hard to rehabilitate myself, and I had already surpassed what others thought was possible! In September 2012, I went from being 35kg overweight and in a wheelchair to stepping on stage for my first bodybuilding competition. In just one year, I completely turned my life around, losing all the weight, learning to walk again, and achieving what I was told I couldn't. I felt amazing!

 

However... the journey wasn't over yet! Fast-forward a few years and I was facing a different battle – anxiety and panic attacks. During this time, I learned a lot about the connection between exercise and the mind, and the wonderful effect it can have on mental health. Although it's been a long road, I'm proud to say I'm now in control of my anxiety (although I definitely still have my moments)! I'm actually thankful for it, as it has given me so much more empathy and understanding of how limiting mental struggles can be when it comes to making progress toward fitness and lifestyle goals. 

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With Mindset Fitness, I truly hope I can pass on the knowledge gained from my experiences to others.  I am committed to working alongside my clients at their own pace, taking into account not only physical fitness and injuries, but also any mental blocks and negative associations that may have developed with exercise over time. As the name suggests – in order to create long-term lifestyle change we must deep-dive into one's mindset.

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If you're on the verge of taking the leap and prioritising your health, please do it! It will be the best decision of your life. If not for yourself, do it for your children, your spouse, or anyone who sees you as a role model. 

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I would love to help you on your way to a healthier and happier life. Please get in touch using the form below if you would like to have a no-obligation chat.  

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- JJ Economu