At Fitness4Less, we believe that fitness isn’t just about how much you can lift or how fast you can run — it’s about resilience, connection, and the incredible strength that comes from within. Few stories capture that better than Nicola’s.

Nicola has been a proud member of Fitness4Less Colchester for nearly three years. She was no stranger to a tough workout — taking on Sarah’s Body Pump, Heidi’s Grit, Clare’s Insanity, Gavin’s Spin, and Andy’s Core classes. “I loved the challenge and the community,” she says.

But life threw Nicola a challenge no workout could prepare her for.

She was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, an aggressive form of blood cancer.

“Chemotherapy was brutal. But one thing my doctors told me I had going for me was my fitness — both physical and mental. That strength mattered.”

Nicola’s journey through treatment was incredibly tough, but her fitness foundation and the mindset she built in the gym became her greatest allies. Every burpee, spin, and squat had done more than just strengthen her muscles — they’d strengthened her spirit.

When her treatment finished on May 5th, Nicola was determined to return to the place that had given her so much strength and support: Fitness4Less.

“I cried during my first class — not from pain, but from the shock of how much my body had changed.”


But Nicola didn’t give up. Slowly, class by class, she began to rebuild. And soon, those tears of frustration turned into tears of joy.

“Now, I sometimes still tear up in class — but it’s because I can’t believe how amazing my body feels again. I’m getting fitter, stronger, and more grateful every day — thanks to the support and encouragement of my F4L family.”

Nicola’s story reminds us all why the gym is more than a place to train — it’s a community that lifts you up, especially when life feels heavy.

At Fitness4Less, we couldn’t be prouder to be part of Nicola’s journey and to see how fitness and friendship have helped her rediscover her strength.

“Fitness and friendship are helping me through this journey. I hope my story can do the same for you.”

Thank you, Nicola, for sharing your story and showing us what true strength looks like.