Deeside MP lauds inspiring gym initiative bridging fitness gaps for all abilities

An MP is impressed by a new project which aims to bring physical movement and wellbeing to all, regardless of age, health conditions and disabilities.

When Kat Jones, who already runs a successful women-only gym in Buckley, Aspire to Fitness, was diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder, she turned it into a positive to help others.

Kat, from Sealand, has now founded Fortitude Fortis, which provides physical training for anyone, especially those who may face barriers to exercising.

Alyn and Deeside MP Mark Tami recently visited Kat and colleague Sammy Hann at Immerse Fitness in Queensferry to learn more about the project.

Fortitude Fitness provides PT for clients ranging from children to septuagenarians, those in wheelchairs, with fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, Down’s Syndrome and with mental health issues.

There are three other trainers involved in the project, providing a range of specialist training and experience including boxing, menopause, postural analysis and yoga. Organisations that Fortitude Fortis are helping include the North Wales Crusaders wheelchair rugby league team and Outside Lives.

Services are provided at Immerse plus in-house for various individuals and organisations, and currently the team dedicate Mondays to volunteer work.

Referrals have so far come from word of mouth, and soon the pair hope to take on GP and social services referrals. Kat hopes that physiotherapists and chiropractors will offer treatments from two rooms at Immerse, adding to the complement of services on offer.

“I want to educate people not to give up on themselves,” said Kat. “The benefits of exercise are well known, and it can help people so much. We want to make exercise accessible for everyone in a supportive, normalised environment, and remove any stigma.”

Mark Tami added: “It’s been great to visit Kat and Sammy and hear more about Fortitude Fortis. What they’ve achieved in making a difference to people’s lives in just a few short months is really impressive, and I know they will go from strength to strength.”

Fortitude Fortis already has disabled toilets and shower facilities but is raising money for a lift and equipment such as a wheelchair treadmill. If you can help, please donate here. Anyone who would like support from Fortitude Fortis should email fortitude.fortis.uk@gmail.com