Hi All

Have just had confirmation that my friend and fellow fitness instructor Debbie Johnson is starting her brand new class at Westfield Church Hall in Bridgwater THIS COMING THURSDAY!

So check out the alternative classes page for details.

Emma
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Is it me or does it seem that Summer is gradually disappearing??? Sorry for a lack of updates over the past week or two but I have been away on holiday.

Have just put a link on the alternative classes page for some classes in the Taunton area and hoping to get details from Debbie Johnson about her plans for Westfield Church Hall in Bridgwater this week so watch this space.

Emma
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Hi Everyone

I have now added a list of alternative exercise/dance classes to the website and will be updating the list as and when I get details of more classes.

It is with massive regret that I am unable to find any suitable suggestions for the Taunton area so far although I do have a few avenues to try so keep checking back.

My friend and fellow fitness instructor Debbie Johnson is about to release details of the classes she is going to be holding at Westfield Church Hall (my old home!) on Thursday nights very soon so I will be putting those details here on the website as soon as I have them.....

Emma
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I just wanted to say thank you so much for the wonderful send-off you all gave me when I finished my classes after 12 years of teaching.

I had so many amazing cards, flowers and presents - it was wonderful. I especially was very touched by the words many of you had written in your cards about how much you had enjoyed the classes and my outlook of keeping fit and active regardless of your weight, shape or size.

Please do keep in touch and I promise to start putting a list of the alternative classes on the website over the next week or so.

My grateful thanks

Lots of love

Emma
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Hi All

Many of you will have heard by now but I have taken the very difficult decision to retire from teaching exercise classes at the end of this month.

This has been a decision I have been thinking about for a couple of months and although I know I am going to miss my classes and you my class members, it is the right thing to do at this time in my life when my "day job" is going so well and taking up an increasing amount of my time.

I would like to take this opportunity to say that I have made many friends whilst running my classes and I was particularly touched by the support you gave me and my Mum last year when my Dad passed away.

If you are able to make the final classes it would be wonderful to see you and please check back here on the website over the next few weeks as I am planning to publish a comprehensive list of classes for you to use and hopefully identify somewhere new to try.

My everlasting thanks

Emma
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Hi All

To those of you who responded - thanks for your support! Also thanks to everyone who is making an effort to attend classes in this warm weather......

There are a couple of dates coming up when there are no classes as both of the halls have prior bookings so make sure you check before attending or see "Latest News".

Emma

........for not blogging for so long! Life has been a little hectic!

Not actually sure if many of you read my blog? So if you do then post a comment so I know people are reading and I will make the effort to scribble more regularly.

Emma
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I recently went on a walk with a friend who is extremely fit! I was very surprised at how hard I found a simple (but quite long) walk on the Quantocks especially up the hills! I'm not as fit as you think...... I have been teaching exercise classes for 12 years and that is now second nature to me but anything else is not such a walk in the park (pardon the pun!).

This made me think about how it is very easy to get stuck in a rut with your exercise - which is fine if you are happy with what you are doing. But if you are looking to get fitter and achieve results then you need to constantly work a little harder or look for ways in which to challenge yourself by doing something different.

So dont be surprised if I push you a bit in classes over the next few weeks...... but as always the classes are designed to suit a range of levels so its just a case of you choosing the right one for you!

Now - where did I put that whip??? - THAT WAS A JOKE!

Emma
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Hi All

Had a day off today from my "day job" and so have been catching up including updating this website!

Sorry I haven't blogged for a few weeks (well - a month to be precise!). Still very pleased with numbers in classes especially the 6.30pm classes in both Taunton & Bridgwater. I do however have some spaces in the size 16+ only class which is held at 8.00pm on a Thursday night in Bridgwater so if you know someone who you think might benefit from this class which is exclusively for curvy ladies then please do let them know.

I am still fascinated even after all these years (12 years of teching this year!) that my "all size" classes are so popular where as the "plus size" class is a little quieter. At one time I planned only to teach plus size classes because that is what I feel so passionate about but it just goes to show that even ladies who are not plus size need a friendly, comfortable and non-threatening environment to exercise in!

If you do know of someone who is umming and urrrring about coming along then make sure to let them know they are more than welcome to come along and just watch a class for the first time (no charge).

Hope to see you at a class soon.

Emma
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We've been back at classes for 4 weeks now and I have been overwhelmed at the number of you who have returned to classes following the 6 month break.

I don't know about you but I'm already starting to feel better for doing some regular exercise!

Its a good opportunity to remind you that my philosophy when it comes to exercise is not about weight loss but about all the many many other benefits you get by being regularly physically active like sleeping better, more energy, improved digestion, increased circulation and a feeling of well-being..... I love it!

I hope you feel and experience the same!

Emma

WOW! What a turnout on Thursday night in Bridgwater! 41 of you in the 6.30pm class! I was so pleased to see so many of you return to class after such a long time away. There were good numbers in the size 16+ class also.

It really means a lot to me that so many people enjoy (if thats the right word!?) my classes and I hope that together we can get back to the level of health and fitness we enjoyed before June last year.

It seems though that we may not be out of the woods yet with regards to the wintry weather so remember to check the website for the latest just in case classes have to be cancelled because of the conditions.

Emma

Hi All

As it seems that for many of us a thaw has begun then tomorrow night classes in Bridgwater will be going ahead as planned.

Please take care when travelling to class and on the surrounding roads and pavements.

Remember that for tomorrow night ONLY there is the special re-launch offer of 10 classes for £25.00!

Looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible....

Emma
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Well done to all 26 of you who came to class tonight - was really pleased with the turnout!

With regards to Thursday night classes this week - I'll be reviewing the situation over the next few days as currently there is heavy snow forecast for tomorrow!

Keep checking the website for the latest......

Emma
x

Just a quick note to say the school have confirmed that access is okay and so tonights class will go ahead as planned.

Please do take care when travelling to class though and dont take any risks!

I'll see as many of you as possible later.....

Emma
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Hi All

I am waiting for the school in Taunton to confirm whether or not we will be able to hold tomorrow nights exercise class and also to see what the weather brings in the morning.

I will update the "Latest News" section of the website as soon as I know and I am also happy for people to text/ring me etc 07889 363509.

The basic rule of thumb is if you dont hear from me then the class will take place! Although I obviously wouldn't want anyone to take any risks by travelling to class if not safe for them.

Fingers crossed.....

Emma
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We all love a bit of snow but once the novelty has worn off it becomes a right pain!

I appreciate that like me many of you were chomping at the bit to get back to classes but there was no way I could risk holding the classes in Bridgwater tonight when it is extremely icy and they forecast temperatures of minus 8!

So looking ahead to Monday - more snow is forecast Sunday/Monday so I will have to review the Monday night situation on Monday morning so I would be really grateful if as many people as possible could use the website to check out the latest or ring/text me to check. Please use my mobile as once I leave the house on Monday morning (and it is possible I may have to stay in Taunton on Sunday night to be close to work) I dont return home until after the class! If you do text me could I ask you to put your name on your text as I dont have everyones mobile number saved in my phone.

My mobile 07889 363509.

We will settle down eventually.......

Take very good care

Emma
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Hi All

I'm writing this from my work office in Taunton as for the second night running I have to stay here close to work because of the bad weather conditions! This evening I will be attempting to ring as many of the Bridgwater class members as possible as due to the bad weather conditions we are experiencing at the moment and after chatting to the Church Office at Westfield in Bridgwater I have decided to postpone the re-launch of the Thursday night class until next week!

I am very disappointed but the forecast and particularly the very cold temperatures (minus 7!) would make it a risk for many of you to get to classes plus the hall is struggling to maintain warmth as it is so cold!

I was running a special re-launch offer for this week only  but dont worry if you were planning to take me up on this because I will carry that over to next weeks Thursday night classes.

What a pain!!!!

Emma
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Goodness I'm out of shape! Was very nervous about getting back to teaching my exercise classes tonight after having had 6 months off (the longest break from exercise I've had in about 14 years).

It was so lovely to see so many of you come back and continue to support my class in Taunton tonight - great to see you all.

I promised to take it easy on you but believe me I had to take it easy on myself - it was great to get back but I really felt out of condition and so now I cant wait to get back to my previous fitness level and enjoy all those benefits again! Remember its not about weight loss for me but more about how being healthy and active makes me feel...... positive, alive, energised, relaxed and happy! Cant wait!

Hope to see lots of you at the Bridgwater classes on Thursday night. Dont forget the special offer of 10 weeks for £25.00! Almost all of the Taunton class took me up on that tonight - I think I underestimated how shrewd they all were.....

Emma
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Hi Everybody...... Happy New Year for 2010!

2009 was a difficult year and once again I thank everyone for their support especially over the past 6 months when I chose to close my classes temporarily.

But onwards and upwards for the New Year and its just a few days away until I re-launch my classes starting on Monday 4th January in Taunton.

I'm a bit nervous that many people will have got out of the habit and may not come back but for those that do I am very much looking forward to exercising with you again. I havent done any formal exercise myself during my time off so we will all be in the same boat and I promise to take it easy on you.....(!)

Dont forget the special offer if you come back to classes during the first week - £25.00 for 10 classes!

Looking forward to seeing you all next week and hopefully seeing some new faces at classes as well.

Best Wishes

Emma

Hi Everybody

Just to confirm that I am re-launching my exercise classes as of Monday 4th January 2010. I am very much looking forward to getting back to classes and hope you feel the same!?

There will be a special offer during the first week only where you will be able to buy 10 classes for £25.00 which is only £2.50 per class! This offer will only be available for the first week back!

Any queries - feel free to get in touch!

Emma

Hi Everybody

Thank you so much for all your wonderful support following the death of my beloved Dad last month. I was so touched to receive so many messages and cards.

Just to let you know I'm planning to re-open my exercise classes in early January 2010 including a very special offer if you come back during the first week so keep checking into the website as I will release exact details very soon.

Emma
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My Dad passed away yesterday morning at home...... we will miss him terribly but know that he is peaceful and resting and not suffering anymore. Dads funeral is being held on Monday 12th October 2009 at 3.00pm at Cannington Church. All welcome.

Thanks to everyone for their ongoing support and thoughts.

Emma
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Hi All

Just to let all class members know that I will be sending each of you a letter or email this week with regards to my plans for my exercise classes and explaining my situation.

Anyone who has paid in advance for any classes will receive a full refund.

As it stands I have decided not to return to classes before the Christmas holiday but plan to re-launch and re-open my classes in the New Year all being well.

Thanks again for all your kindness and understanding at this difficult time.

Emma
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I am so sorry not to be in a position to be able to say when classes will be re-starting.

My Dad is very poorly and it is just not possible at this time to make a decision... I really do appreciate all of your kind words of support and the lovely cards and emails I have received.

As I have mentioned previously please dont hesitate to contact me if you would like details of other teachers and their classes. I have several contacts in the Bridgwater area (but unfortunately not in Taunton).

Emma
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Hi Everybody

Its now been 5 weeks since I closed my exercise classes temporarily and just wanted to update you.

Dad has just come home this afternoon from being in hospital for the past week - the doctors and nurses have been looking after him very well. He is quite poorly but generally in good spirits which is a comfort.

Have had messages from several class members which has been lovely..... I do apologise for not being able to re-open classes just yet but I promise to try and sort something as soon as it is possible.

Please remember I am more than happy to let anyone have details of other classes in the area if that helps.

Take care and keep in touch

Emma
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Just wanted to say thanks so much to everybody who has emailed me, sent messgaes and cards etc offering support and thoughts.

Its been two weeks since I closed the classes temporarily and just wanted to update you.....

Dad is having good and bad days at the moment but is still quite poorly. I cannot express enough though how not having to think about running my classes is such a relief and means I can visit Dad and Mum everyday.

I suppose with the humid and sticky weather we are having at the moment many of you are quite grateful that we are not at class! It really is quite uncomfortable at times isnt it?

Just also wanted to say if anyone would like details of other classes in the area that you could attend whilst I am not teaching then please email or call me and I'll give you some numbers of other teachers I know locally.

My thanks again for everybody being so understanding......

Emma
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Hello All

I am very sorry but as my Dad is quite poorly I have decided to close my exercise classes for the time being to allow me time to spend with Dad and the family.

As I also work full-time during the day it has become increasingly difficult to manage everything and so as to not mess you all about I thought it was best to make a decision.

I very much intend to re-start classes in the near future and promise to contact everybody to let you know the date etc.

I hope that you understand my decision and if you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Take care

Emma
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Just a note to say thanks to all of you that have offered support and kind words as my Dad is poorly.

Classes will continue as normal although as I know you will all appreciate I may have to assess things on a week by week basis.....

Please make sure that I have your up to date contact details so that I can let you know of any class cancellations if necessary.

Also - really pleased that many of you made the effort on Monday night this week to come to class on the hottest day of the year so far (I think there may have been hotter since!). Always remember we will adjust classes according to the weather so no need to worry about over-heating!

Take Care

Emma
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Hi All

I have finally received my finished life drawing! For anyone who isn't aware what I have been doing - I have been drawn naked by a group of artists!

I did this for a couple of reasons but mainly to reinforce that it is so liberating to be comfortable in your own   skin and to love your body including all its lumps, bumps, rolls and fat!

Many of you have already had a look at the finished drawing at classes this week but please dont feel that you have to! I think many people have been quite curious and I have had some nice comments including "very tasteful", "lovely" and "gosh you are brave"!

I'll have to think of my next challenge now - any suggestions?

Emma
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Hi

Thanks to all of you who have asked after my Dad who has been in hospital since last Monday - he went home from hospital today and is much better!

Dont forget its yet another Bank Holiday this weekend so there will be no class on Monday night but you are more than welcome at the Thursday night class in Bridgwater as an alternative.

If I dont see you at class tomorrow night - have a great weekend!

Emma
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My apologies to the Monday night class in Taunton this week as I had to cancel the class at short notice as my Dad was taken poorly and admitted to hospital.

I hope that as many of you as possible got the messages I left etc and sorry for any inconvenience....

Dad is still in hospital but is much more stable now so classes will return to normal starting tomorrow night in Bridgwater.

Emma
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Hi All!

Just a quick blog to say class numbers have been a little down over the Easter break which is only to be expected but I am looking forward to seeing you all back at classes next week! If only to have a good giggle at our new end of class wake-up routine which is great fun! (See title of this blog for a clue....)

Oh - by the way remember I operate a home for unwanted Easter Eggs at this time of the year so feel free to do your bit for my chocolate habit - ha ha only joking!

Look forward to seeing you at classes very soon....

Emma
xxx

Back from a lovely week in Madeira..... had a very relaxing and restful week so now all refreshed!

Apart from having to pay a little excess baggage (ooops!) on the way out at the airport the holiday was perfect and the hotel we stayed in was gorgeous - they even came around every night to turn down your bed and leave a chocolate on your pillow!!! Wow!

Now the clocks have gone forward so the days will be much longer so no excuses about not wanting to come out to classes in the dark anymore.... Summer is creeping up on us and it wont be long before you will be wanting to get your shorts out so lets work on those legs while we still have a chance!

Lots of you have been asking me if I have received my finished life modelling picture yet but I promise it has not arrived - Colin the lovely artist is in the process of framing it etc so as soon as its here I will let you know and for those of you who are very curious you can have a look!

Emma
X

Hi Everyone

Well, just this week to go and then we have a week off from classes as I am having a holiday! Cant wait for my week in the sun..... even though I had all that time off over Christmas and New Year for my foot operation it wasnt exactly a holiday!

I'm really pleased with how class numbers have been so consistently high so well done to all of you who have well and truly got back into the habit after our long break at the beginning of the year.

If I dont blog before then will catch up with you when back from my trip!

Emma
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Hi All

Yesterday I completed my third life modelling session and now all I have to do is wait for the finished picture! My lovely artist Colin is just putting the finishing touches to the picture and then it will be mine....

The whole life modelling experience has been really interesting and has left me feeling more confident about my body and more eager to encourage more of you to feel the same! Now this doesnt mean I am recommending you all strip off for a drawing session but more that you stop disliking your bodies and stop dreaming of looking a certain way. We are all unique and the sooner we start appreciating that and cutting ourselves some slack rather than trying to be something we're not - the better!

Embrace your body, love it, and take care of it whether that be by exercise, eating in moderation, slathering it in body lotion or just by smiling at yourself in the mirror rather than frowning - honestly it makes you feel so much better!

Class numbers are fabulous at the moment and I am really pleased so many of you are coming regularly! Keep up the good work....

Emma

Well, I've been talking about it for long enough but finally this weekend I fulfilled an ambition to pose as a life model!

Now several people have asked me for clarification as to what this means and basically it means posing nude (completely naked with no clothes on at all) for an artist or group of artists who are interested in drawing the human form.

There were only two artists (Colin and Kate) and they were both lovely and made me feel very comfortable and once I had done the first couple of poses (you have to keep the pose still for approx 15-20 mins!) I felt much more relaxed.

Now dont get me wrong - it felt very strange exposing myself completely but once I realised the artists were there because of their passion for drawing rather than to pass comment on the way my body looks that sort of helps!

Lots of people have said I must be mad but I just look at it as another way of promoting body confidence and positive self-esteem. We are all different shapes and sizes with lumps, bumps, scars, and parts of our bodies that we do and dont like and perhaps if we celebrated that more rather than feeling self-conscious we might all feel a bit better about ourselves!

Now I am certainly not advocating we all get naked!!! But how about trying to look at yourself in the mirror (in private) once in a while and appreciating your body rather than criticising it?

Emma
x

PS: Glad the hall we were in was heated! Ha Ha......

If your name is Vicky Willis and you emailed me yesterday/today using the Contact Form on the website - please could you email me again at mail@xlemma.co.uk or call me on 07889 363509.

There seems to be a problem with the Contact Form in that it didnt include your own email address so I am unable to reply. I cant use the "Rely To Sender" option as it just sends it email back to myself!

Sorry for any inconvenience Vicky and hope to hear from you soon.....

To everybody else - keep up the good work as class numbers are excellent even though we have had some really bad winter weather! Well done....

Emma
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Just wanted to say well done to all of you who attended the Monday night class in Taunton last night!

It was very cold, snowing and quite icy but 31 of you turned up for class and I was very impressed...... keep up the good work!

Emma
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Been back to classes this week and it has been great to get back to normal!

Fantastic to see so many of you at class this week - I know lots of people were nervous about coming back after such a long break but we took it easy and everyone did really well.

I dont know about you but its easy to forget how good a bit of exercise can make you feel and how sluggish you can get when you dont do any exercise. So despite being tired and working long hours this week - its been so nice to feel that smug just-finished a class buzz feeling!?

Hope you felt the same??? Perhaps I'm just a bit weird?

Emma
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Well its been nearly 8 weeks since we last got hot and sweaty!

I am excited about getting back to exercise but at the same time I know its going to be hard...... so just wanted to let you know we will be taking it easy for the first few weeks as my foot is still healing and lots of you have been telling me you are a bit out of shape and would like to ease back into it!!

It wont take us long to get back to our exercising ways....

Look forward to seeing you all!

Emma
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Hi Everybody!

Have decided to re-start classes one week from today! My foot is doing well and I know everybody is very keen to get back so on the basis that the first few weeks we will be taking it quite steady - lets get started!!

Have had lots of calls and emails from class members so pleased that many of you are chomping a the bit to get back to exercising!

Any queries, get in touch....

Emma

Finally got back to some exercise today - went swimming with John! At first I felt really out of practice but once I got going it was so nice to feel the buzz I get from exercising. Its been ages!

Its not a mad high or anything like that but its just a really positive feeling I get from knowing I am moving my body, doing something good for my health and getting the happy hormones going.....

I am still not a massive fan of swimming though and I remembered why especially when I tried to get dry and change back into my clothes afterwards..... why is it your knickers always get in a twist, your bra never seems to go on straight and no matter how fluffy your towel is you dont seem to get dry!!! Ha Ha.....

Anyway swimming is good for my foot until we get back to classes........ still aiming to re-start on the 26th!

Emma
x

Hi

Haven't made it to the swimming pool yet as have had a stinking cold for about 3 weeks now and funny blocked ears but have been doing some walking to build the strength back up in my foot. Scar seems to be healing well and apart from being a little tender at times still looking good!

Lots of you getting in touch to say how much you are missing classes and traditionally classes dont really get busy until mid-late January so dont panic we are hopefully only a few weeks away from re-starting.

I think we will all have to take it a bit easy when we go back as it has been such a long break!!

Emma
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At Last! - I can drive......

Saw the surgeon yesterday who is really pleased with my foot and its recovery and he has said I can drive again at last! I have been a really ungrateful, annoying passenger for John and my Mum so I expect they are glad I can get behind the wheel myself again....

Surgeon did say I had to do a couple of weeks swimming and strength building before I go back to teaching exercise classes but so far so good we are on track!

Are you fed up yet with all the newspaper and magazine stories about the latest diets and fitness trends - WHATEVER YOU DO..... DONT BE SUCKED IN!!!!!

Em
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Happy New Year!

Well, 2009 is well and truly upon us and here we go for another year!!! Foot is healing nicely now and in the last few days I have been able to wear my trainers which is great! I have an appointment at the hospital tomorrow so I am hoping the surgeon will say I can drive again!

So it looks as though we are on target to re-start exercise classes on Monday 26th January 2009 as planned which is great!

But this is still 3 weeks away so its really important that you try and start some exercise before then if possible...... so remember what I told you all about trying some power walking! Or perhaps like me you could try some swimming for a few weeks (I am not a big swimming fan but I'm going to do a bit to get my strength back over the next couple of weeks).

Whatever you do - DO NOT make silly, unrealistic resolutions that wont last beyond next week!! Dont get sucked into all the New Years diet plans that are all across the papers, TV and magazines as they are just a marketing ploy! You know what you should do....... eat in moderation, exercise and enjoy life!!!

Will let you know how I get on at the hospital tomorrow!

Emma
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Hi All

Foot doing well and I can now get about completely without my crutches BUT I still cant get my trainer on as my foot is too swollen. My toes are really fat!!! I am walking a bit squiffy but a lot more mobile now.

Christmas was lovely and I did manage a couple of glasses of "Christmas Cheer" as I wasn't driving! Poor John has been tee-total all over Christmas as he has been having to do all the driving but he will make up for it on New Years Eve as we are getting taxis! I am not allowed to drive for another couple of weeks yet!

I am off back to the day-job tomorrow (John & Mum sharing being my taxi service - big thanks) and just in case I haven't bored you with it already just before I went off to have my foot done I got promoted! So as of tomorrow I am the new presenter of the Morning Show at BBC Somerset so very exciting times ahead! At least I can do all that sitting down so can still rest my foot....

I am sure lots of you are off work this week so hope you continue to enjoy the break..... personally I am gagging to get back to work as doing nothing for just over 2 weeks has driven me mad! Hopefully if recovery continues I can get back to exercise classes as planned as well - fingers crossed!

Em
x

HAPPY CHRISTMAS......

Its Christmas Eve so just wanted to wish you all a happy, safe, relaxed Christmas!

Foot is doing well and I can now walk without my crutches indoors albeit quite slowly..... so hopefully over the next few weeks things will improve even further.

Anyway - have a great Christmas, eat loads and enjoy yourselves!

Emma
xxx

Okay..... so had stitches out today and have finally got rid of the manky tubi-grip I have been wearing for the last 10 days!!! In case anyone was worried I have been showering but with a special plastic cover on my leg - no plastic bags for this girl!

Thought you might like to see how my foot is looking - if not then look away now!!

Now dont anybody panic because this photo makes it look as though my little toe has disappeared - but it is still there!

You can even still see the pen mark that the surgeon made (in purple marker) to make sure they got the correct foot - like I was going to let them do the wrong one!!!

Still cant drive for several weeks and not allowed to put my trainer on until the end of this week so its still going to take some time but I am planning to go back to the day job next week (just dont tell my surgeon!).

Hope the photo hasn't put anyone off their dinner?

Em
x

Well...... foot seems to be doing well but will know more tomorrow when I go and get my stitches taken out! Not looking forward to that but once its done I will hopefully be able to start to walk more without the crutches? The crutches make my palms hurt!!! Moan, moan, moan.... Getting a bit fed-up now as want to do things and cant!!

Anyway - still getting lots of lovely texts, calls, emails and visitors from all of you which has been really nice. I know you are all busy with Christmas preparations so I am really grateful!

Has anyone done any exercise yet? I dont expect too much before Christmas but remember we will have a much longer break that usual before we get back to classes so try and be as active as possible! I am missing not fully exercising already and its only been 2 weeks....

Will let you know how it goes tomorrow.

Emma
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Morning!

Thought I would give you all a break from Foot Watch yesterday! Well its one week since my foot op and so far so good! Had a bit of a painful day yesterday but Mum says its because I tried to do too much..... If you can call getting up, going down the stairs, sitting on the sofa all day and watching tv doing too much - then there is no hope!!!

My Nan came round to visit me yesterday afternoon and she is a Scrabble fanatic! So the Scrabble board came too and we had a game.... not sure if Nan was taking it easy on me but I beat her with a score over 300!!! Apparently the tradition is if you score over 300 you have to stand up, stamp your feet and shout out loud! Not very practical for me - ha ha! My Nan  is a Scrabble legend!

Em
x

Well here is the photo of my foot...... ONLY JOKING!

Went to hospital yesterday for my first post-op check-up and the surgeon was really pleased with my progress. They took off my comedy bandage so I saw my left foot for the first time since last Thursday and it wasn't looking too bad. A bit swollen and a bit sorry for itself but really nowhere near as manky as Mum and I expected!

They have put a much smaller bandage on now which is great but this does mean that I can feel more and the feeling underneath my foot is not pleasant. Its a bit like stepping on glass - very sharp but apparently that is because of the nerves that have been disturbed etc by the surgery.

Anyway still not allowed to do much this week and have to go back to hospital again next Monday to have my stitches out - owch!

BIG thanks to my Mum who looked after me again yesterday even though it was her birthday! Happy Birthday for yesterday Mum!! John continues to be a star as well especially last night when I got a bit grumpy (unusual I know - ha ha!).

Keep the emails, calls, texts etc coming - they really do make a difference because the boredom is kicking in!!

Em
x

Are you bored of "Foot Watch" yet? Ha Ha.....

Off to the hospital in a bit to get my comedy bandage changed for the first time..... worried about a couple of things:

- how smelly will my foot be as it hasnt seen the light of day since last Thursday!

- what will my foot look like?

- will it hurt? (I am such a wimp!)

I was thinking of taking my camera to take a picture of my foot for the blog before it gets re-bandaged but thought that might put you off your Quality Street/mince pies!!?

Em
x

Well, the novelty of doing nothing is beginning to wear off!

I am so relieved that the pain is not so bad as expected but if anything that has made me even more frustrated because I feel as though I can do things but its not practical on one leg!!!

Anyway - off to get my dressings changed tomorrow morning so I'll get chance to have a good look at my foot. Will fill you in on all the gory details tomorrow!! Bet you can't wait....

A big thank you to all of the ladies from the 6.30pm Thursday night class in Bridgwater - Sarah from the class came to see me yesterday with a card, flowers and pressies! Really nice of you all!

John is out at the moment doing the weekly shop at Asda. He is being really good but I know that shopping is not his favourite thing to do so fingers crossed he makes it back in one piece - ha ha.

Hope you are not too stressed getting ready for Christmas - the one good thing about having my foot done is that all my presents and cards are already wrapped and written! Dont people like that really annoy you!!

Em
x

Hi

Getting on okay so far - not as painful as I was warned which is good. Just had a shower though which was a bit of a palaver!!

John and my Mum are both brilliant nurses!!

Thanks to all of you who have called or text me so far - great to hear from you.....

Only checking my computer once a day at the moment as it is upstairs and as it takes so blimin long for me to get down and up the stairs trying to only do that once a day at the moment!

Emma
x

Morning!

Well it's been a long time coming but finally had my foot operation yesterday and so far so good!

Have a huge comedy bandage or Frankenstein Foot as John calls it:

So far so good - painkillers are working well and the novelty of doing nothing is still fine (for now!)

Emma
x

Hi

Well thats it for 2008! Did my last class of the year last night in Taunton..... thanks to all of those who did make the effort despite it being a horrible night weather wise!

My operation is on Thursday so fingers crossed all will go well. If I havent bored you enough with the gory details already - its a very simple, quick procedure done under a local aneasthetic (is that how you spell it???). Its a day-case so I will be home the same day but its the recovery that takes the time! I'm not supposed to stand on my foot for a good couple of weeks, not allowed to drive for a month and not to go back to teaching classes until the end of January!

So, hopefully if not too painful and I am not too grumpy I will update my blog regularly to let you know just how BORED I am doing nothing!

Take care and promise to blog again soon post-op!

Emma
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Hi All

Sorry I haven't blogged for a week or two but have been busy with Carnival! Have had a great time....

Last Carnival is tomorrow night in Weston-super-Mare hence there is no class in Taunton tomorrow night but I know my lovely ladies in that class dont mind a night off in aid of Carnival!

There are only around 3 weeks of classes left now until we take a break for Christmas, New Year and my foot operation so keep up the good work until then.....

Emma
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The clocks went back an hour today...... traditionally this is when people start to hibernate i.e they seem to find it very hard to leave the house in the evenings to come to exercise class!?! Sound familiar?

I fully appreciate how this feels but remember this:

- if you were going out for a meal and a glass of wine with friends you wouldnt make an excuse!

- there is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing!

- I still turn up come wind, rain, hail and snow so think of me sitting there waiting for you!

- we have a long break coming up over the Christmas/New Year period especially longer than normal due to my foot operation!

Hopefully you will all make an extra effort over the next month or so.....

Emma
x

Hi

Just a quick update to say it looks as though my operation on my foot will be on the 11th December 2008 all being well. So classes will continue as normal until then and we will probably be able to re-start in late January 2009!

This means a possible six or so week break over Christmas and New Year rather than 3 weeks but hopefully you will all bear with me!

Will let you know definite dates etc over the next month or so but in the meantime I would love to see everybody at class as regularly as possible so that you are at your absolute best for the long break!!!

Emma
xxx

Just got back from a lovely weeks holiday in Cornwall with John, we did nothing but sleep, eat, walk, fish (that was John!), relax, chill-out, laze about etc etc...... so feeling very rested!

Classes re-start tomorrow night in Taunton and also tomorrow afternoon I am seeing the foot specialist for the results of my MRI scan so hopefully will have some more news about whether ot not they are going to operate and if so - when?

Will let you know how I get on.....

Emma
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Have heard a bad rumour....... (via my Auntie Sarah) that New Look in Bridgwater have taken out their Inspire range of clothing which if you dont know is their size 16+ range! Apparently it wasn't selling well???

This is a nightmare because there really isnt anywhere in Bridgwater now that you can go to pick up something to wear if you are size 16+! I know Dorothy Perkins, Next and Peacocks do have a few plus sizes but they are few and far between and definitely nothing over size 20/22......

I cannot believe that New Look in Bridgwater think that range didnt sell well??? You only have to look at the sales racks in shops like that and they are full of size 8's, 10's and not the larger sizes because they have all sold!!!!

Are you as mad as me about this??? Get in touch and let me know...... perhaps we should start a petition?

Emma

Hi

Had MRI scan on my foot today and it was an experience...... Luckily I didnt have to go right into the tube as they just put me halfway in! You have to lie perfectly still for 30 mins!

I am not good at lying still as after about 5 minutes I have a tendancy to fall asleep - I am sure at one point I heard the scanner man snigger because I was snoring!! Anyway wont have results for a few weeks but at least I am getting closer to hopefully getting it sorted......

Had a new arrival in the week - my new baby niece called Atlantia Jane - she is gorgeous!

The weather forecast is pretty good for the week ahead so enjoy the sunshine and get yourself a dose of Vitamin D as it will help to lift your spirits!

Dont forget we have some nights off over the next two weeks so enjoy the rest and see you back at class soon!

Emma
X

Hi All

For everyone who didnt make it to class tonight - here is the latest news following my visit to see the foot specialist at the hospital yesterday......

He said he is pretty sure that I have an extra bone in my foot that has caused a trapped nerve which is the reason for the pain I've been having for the last 6 months or so!

I will be having a MRI scan over the next week or so and depending on the results of that it is possible that I will have to have surgery on my foot! He did say that if I did have the operation I would have to rest my foot for several weeks - this means John will have to wait on me hand & foot - literally! Ha Ha...

Anyway - will keep you informed but in the meantime classes are running as normal with the help of Mr Ibuprofen!

Have a good weekend!

Emma
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Hi All

Just to keep you updated with my gammy foot! Have an appointment with the hospital specialist next Wednesday (3rd September) so lets hope he can shed some light....

Just had the August Bank Holiday weekend so time to get back into the swing of things at classes! We have some time off coming up at the end of September so you need to make the most of the next few weeks!

See you at class!

Emma
X

Thanks to everybody who has been enquiring after my dodgy left foot! Latest news is that the x-ray results came back clear but that doesnt rule out a stress fracture as sometimes they only show up via a more detailed scan!

Anyway the GP is referring me to a specialist so I will keep you informed! Meanwhile I am still teaching and depending on how the foot feels each class as to whether I stand up or sit down! What a palaver! Thanks for your patience.....

Quite a few new class members have joined over the last few weeks so well done! Those of you that have lapsed into the bottle of wine in the garden rather than come to class habit - we would love to see you!?! Ha Ha!

Em

Hi All

Just a thank you to my size 16+ Thursday night class in Bridgwater who allowed me to experiment on them last Thursday!!!

Basically my foot injury that I have been moaning about for ages its not getting better and tomorrow I have an appointment for an X-ray to see if I have a stress fracture.... if I do them it is 4-6 weeks no exercise!!! So my plan is to try to continue to teach classes but seated! Its that or we have 6 weeks off and I know several class members wouldn't want that and I know for sure after 10 years of regular exercise with the longest break I've ever had being 3 weeks each Christmas then I would be MRS GRUMPY!!!!!

So I did the aerobic section seated and it worked pretty well! Thanks for your patience ladies!

Will let you know how the X-ray goes......

Emma
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Just lately I have heard of several examples of people I know that have lost vast amounts of weight only to have put all or quite a lot of it back on.....

We are not talking a few pounds here rather stones and stones....! Now this is a difficult and sensitive subject but I just wanted to re-emphasise my view on this. If you are determined to lose excess weight then you either have to be prepared to maintain that loss which in most cases is quite a hard thing to achieve or you must consider going for the happy medium and finding a weight at which you can still lead the lifestyle you want to without struggle or the risk of yo-yoing up and down!

My weight has been fairly stable over the last 10 years or so (ever since I began exercising regularly) and I cannot stress enough how nice that is. I dont have a fat and a thin wardrobe and I dont feel like I have been on a weight rollercoaster! Yes I am considered obese/morbidly obese by the medical profession but my health is generally good and I am happy and settled in my body. This might not suit everybody but if you are a serial yo-yoer then you might want to think about finding a happy medium?

Remember the diet industry is founded upon failure..... its a bit like a roundabout that people keep going round and round and round on, they occasionally get off but then go back and start the process all over again.....

Emma

Just realised I havent blogged for a month! Not sure if this is because nothing exciting has happened or because loads of exciting things have happened so I havent had time???

Can you believe it  that its almost July and we dont seem to have had a proper Summer yet!? This does however mean that class numbers have been steady which is good.....

Since I last blogged there has been the whole "Fern Britton Gastric Band" controversy and I must say I was personally quite upset and annoyed about this story. I have always been a fan of Fern (and its nothing to do with having the same name!). However hearing that she has resorted to weight-loss surgery did disappointment me as I have always seen her as a role model for plus size ladies. She has been a strong promoter of being fit regardless of your size but it seems (in my personal opinion) that she has finally been beaten down by the pressures of society and the media....... Her REAL reasons for doing this are her business but I am sure that women everywhere will either be feeling decieved and/or disappointed.......?

Let me know what you think.....

The Glastonbury Music Festival is happening this weekend and although I had the opportunity to go (through my day job at the radio station) I would much rather watch it on the telly! Too many people, not enough deodorant, too much mud, smelly toilets and a bit too much free love for my liking - ha ha!

Have a great weekend and I promise to blog more regularly!

Emma
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Been away this weekend and had a great time! Went to Leeds on Saturday to watch the Kaiser Chiefs in concert which was brilliant and then got up early Sunday morning to drive down to London to see Leeds play in the football final at Wembley! Despite the fact that Leeds didnt win on Sunday - we did have a really nice weekend!

There was no Monday night class this week because of the Bank Holiday but classes will run as normal in Bridgwater on Thursday night! Class numbers have been very good this month so keep up the good work everyone!

Emma
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Classes re-started tonight in Bridgwater and it was great to see everybody! However it was soooooooooooooo hot tonight!! Really sticky and clammy!

Everyone worked really hard though so well done and apologies for having to shout at you as my microphone decided to break down for the first time in about 6 years!

Remember to drink lots of water to re-hydrate ladies as we sweated loads this evening - I am heading off to the shower once I have finished writing this!

Nice to be back to classes! Also thanks for all your concern about my poorly foot - will keep you posted!

Em
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Hi All

Classes re-start this Thursday in Bridgwater! I have had some time off from my day job at the radio station too so hopefully will be refreshed and ready to go!

I know I have said this before in my blog but I really do notice the effect of not exercising on my body and mind!! I know it is important to rest and because of my foot injury it has been essential but I do feel really sluggish and a bit low when I dont get my body moving!

Foot still not better but no worse, so will be back to classes on Thursday! Having some blood tests next week to check out my foot problem a bit further but even if I have to teach one-legged I will be there!

Hope you have enjoyed the Bank Holiday weekend..... its only a couple of weeks until the next one!

Take care

Emma
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Hi

Sorry to those of you who have been disappointed this week by the news of the closure of the Tuesday night class. As I have explained to many of you this is due to various reasons and was not a decision taken lightly!

Anyway - Mondays in Taunton and Thursdays in Bridgwater will continue once I have had a little break! (Last class tomorrow night in Taunton and  then classes re-start on Thursday 8 May 2008).

Didnt manage to make it to the Trinny & Susannah filming this weekend but I am looking forward to seeing the new series when it comes out on TV later in the year!

Hope you are having a good weekend? I am off now for a roast diner at John's sisters - yummy!

Emma

Hi All

Just found out that the new series of "How To Look Good Naked" starts this Tuesday on Channel 4 at 8.00pm. I love this programme and think that Gok Wan who presents it is a legend! I once interviewed him for BBC Somerset and he was just lovely!

We all have our off days when it comes to our body image but its when you let that turn into a way of life day in and day out that things can really get you down.... Thats where this programme can really help you to realise that it is possible to feel better about yourself as long as you are prepared to climb out of that rut and learn to make the most of what you have been blessed with! Curves, lumps, bumps, saggy bits and all!

Got a new warm-up routine for classes this week so watch out! Only 3 more weeks of classes before we have a week off so make best efforts to attend if you can!

Take care

Em
x

Hi

Just a quick blog as its a bit late and I'm off to bed!

I mentioned previously about the possibility of being involved with a Trinny & Susannah programme for ITV. Well the filming date is later in April but I am not sure yet if I can make it but will let you know if I do! I am a fan of T & S ever since they started doing the whole "learn to love and appreciate the body you are in" work!

Check out the Latest News page about The Big Ballet  coming to Somerset next month www.thebigballet.co.uk! They really are amazing so if you get the chance to go and see them you wont be disappointed. They are coming to Frome & Yeovil but if you cant make those venues I  think they are coming back to Weston-super-Mare in November! I might arrange a class outing - what do you think?

Have a good weekend - rest, relax and enjoy!

Em
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Hiya

Just a quick note to wish you a Happy Easter! Hope you have a great long-weekend! Got two classes in Bridgwater tonight so hopefully people will make it before they wind down for the weekend...

Enjoy your Easter eggs! Remember I run a home for unwanted chocolate eggs at this time of the year so dont neglect yours when they could come to a good and loving home instead! Ha Ha!

Have a good one....

Em
x

P.S Possibility of being involved with a Trinny & Susannah TV programme soon so watch this space.....

Hi All

Have realised I haven't blogged for ages! Lots been happening - I turned 34! Had a lovely weekend away for my birthday, had a day at a gorgeous spa in Devon with my Mum, been trying to sell our house with little success, working hard on the day job including a whole week presenting the radio show which was great plus teaching my classes!

Busy, busy, busy!

Anyway mixed news on classes - Taunton has been amazing with fantastic numbers and an average of 34 per class since the beginning of the year so keep up the good work! Even with the awful weather last night there were 38 ladies there! Bridgwater not been quite so busy and I maintain that is because people have two nights to choose from and that makes it easier to make an excuse because you find yourself saying its okay I'll go in a few days!!!

So, ladies of Bridgwater - dig deep and re-find your motivation! We always have good fun at classes and no-one ever regrets coming but I can understand how its hard to drag yourself out of the house some nights especially when the weather is rubbish or there is something good on the telly!

Easter is creeping up on us very very fast - bring on the chocolate!

Will blog again soon - promise!

Emma
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Its Valentines Day in a few hours so dont forget to take care of your heart! Just got back from a lovely meal out with John because we couldnt go tomorrow night because I have two classes in Bridgwater.

I wonder how many class members will pretend they are romantic and wont turn up???

If you are not on a "promise" tomorrow night then get yourself down to a class in Bridgwater and I will get your heart going!

No seriously - just to remind you all that classes will run as per normal even though its Valentines Day so no excuses!

Happy Valentines!

Em
xxx

Hi All

Hope you had a great weekend! Two things....

1. Big "WELL DONE" to the Monday night Taunton class as 37 in attendance tonight!

2. Even more importantly - dont forget tomorrow is Pancake Day!! Cant wait..... my mouth is watering already! So if you are a Tuesday night class member then come along and work up an appetite and then you can have a couple of extra pancakes afterwards!

Emma
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Wanted to tell you about my pavement rage on Saturday!

Was walking along through my local shopping centre when a lady attempted to hand me a leaflet..... I was just about to take it when I realised it was advertising Slimming World!!!

Not only was I not interested as I personally don't believe in diets as they dont work (this has been proven by statistics!) but more importantly she obviously judged me as needing her services!!! HOW CHEEKY!

Driving home from a very busy class in Taunton tonight (33 in attendance) I noticed several roadside signs on my way into Bridgwater also advertising said company.... Now either they are desperate for clients or someone has got over-excited with the advertising budget!?

Just my own opinion.....feel free to prove me wrong?

Em

Well, you may not know this but I have a bit of a phobia about cooking! Basically I can burn water given half the chance but I watched Gordon Ramsey's Cookalong tv programme on Friday night and was so inspired that this weekend I hit the kitchen!

I was very proud of my culinary achievements and was amazed how easy it was to make a homemade soup which was fab! It was butternut squash and sweet potato and I can highly recommend it!

I think it will be a while before I tackle a Beef Wellington but I am getting there....

Em

Have been back to exercise classes for a week now and already feeling better and getting back into the swing of it!

Not many new people at classes this week which is a shame but lots of regular faces and mostly all keen to get back to it!

If you are reading this and havent yet made it to a class but have been planning to then why not come along this week - I promise we dont bite!! Honestly, try not to make excuses and put it off because the sooner you join in the better you will feel....

Emma

Hi All

Everything gets back to normal tomorrow - I go back to work and my classes re-start after a 3 week break!

I have been working on some new routines for the classes and I went through a complete class here at home today and I was amazed how great it made me feel! I exercise almost every week of the year and its only really holidays and Christmas that I take a break from exercising and this 3 weeks off has made me realise once again just how important a part of my life exercise is!

I woke up this morning feeling very grumpy and poor John got the worst of it! But after going through the new class (in my dining room!) I felt so much better..... more energy, less tired and above all Mrs Grumpy well and truly left the building!!

I know that its hard to get back into a routine after such a long break but dont put off coming back to class because its only when you get back to it that you realise how much you missed it!

See you in class this week!

Emma
xxx

P.S It is just me but are you really irritated by all those ridiculous adverts for celebrity fitness dvd's on the tv!?! I feel a rant coming on so watch this space.........

Happy New Year!

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE DO NOT make any ridiculous resolutions! You know the ones..... "I will lose weight", "I will join a gym", "I will........." etc etc

Why not make a positive resolution instead such as "I am going to give up silly diets"! All joking aside, please dont get sucked into the hype around the fact that it is a new year and you need to shed those unwanted Christmas pounds before the end of January and start thinking about your bikini body for the summer! Lets face it ladies when was the last time you actually achieved a bikini body and even if you did I bet it only lasted as long as the first day on the beach and then it will have crept its way back to a comfortable "normal" for you!

I know I am cynical but I would just love it if more of my friends, family and class members would be more realisitic about themselves, enjoy life to the full, be active and enjoy each day as it comes rather than constantly aspiring to be someone or something they are not!

Come on, make 2008 the year you learn to love yourself - lumps, bumps and all!

Em
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Hi Everyone

How are your plans for Christmas coming along?

Classes are now closed for the Christmas & New Year break but we will be re-starting on Monday 7th January 2008!!! It will come round really quickly so make the most of it!

Just wanted to say a big thanks to all of you who very kindly gave me lovely Christmas cards and presents over the last couple of weeks - I really do appreciate your kindness! Also thanks to those of you who came along to the class Christmas meals - I think you will agree we had some fab food and some lovely company!

I will just once again apologise to those of you at my Bridgwater classes Christmas meal as I completely embarrassed myself by making a huge fuss about the fact that I thought the restaurant had overcharged me and after quite a long dispute with the restaurant staff and things getting a little heated the penny well and truly dropped and i realised IT WAS ALL MY FAULT because I hadnt paid for my own meal!! I felt so silly!....

Anyway - I have stopped blushing now! I hope you all have a lovely Christmas whatever you are doing and see you all soon!

Emma
xxx

Just one week of classes left until we take a break for the silly season! Please make every effort to attend this week if you can.....

I understand that this is a busy time of the year but having good health and keeping fit and well must be the best present you could ever give yourself! (Apart from a designer handbag of course!!)

No seriously, I am looking forward to a break from classes but will most definitely be ready and raring to go when we go back in January 2008!

As many of you know I get a bit miffed with all the fuss around Christmas and especially the whole present buying/giving palava but it is a good time to catch up with family and friends and then of course there are the mince pies, Quality Street and turkey!! Always look on the bright side eh?

Em
x

Morning!

Have just returned from a Bridget Jones style mini-break to Majorca! Well, not quite Bridget Jones although I do wear quite big pants!! No seriously.... had a short break in Spain with John and some friends so feeling refreshed and ready for the onslaught of the festive season!

My apologies to my Monday night Taunton and Tuesday night Bridgwater classes last week as I had the dreaded lurgy and had to cancel classes which is very rare and the first time this year! Fighting fit again now and very keen to make the most of the last few weeks we have before the Christmas break.

I am on leave this week for my day-job but classes will run as normal this Thursday so hope to see you all there!

Em
x

Had a nice surprise at my 8.00pm size 16+ class tonight in Bridgwater....

A lovely lady called Rosie travelled from Warwickshire to attend the class  - she is an aerobics teacher who would like to set-up classes for larger sizes where she lives.

Rosie - it was lovely to meet you and I look forward to hearing from you and all the best for your new ventures!

If you too are a teacher who holds similar classes like mine that are plus-size friendly or you are thinking of starting one then please do get in touch becuase then we may be able to start a directory of classes around the country that suit larger sizes!

Very excited as its Bridgwater Carnival here tomorrow night and in case you dont know - Bridgwater is the home of Europe's (if not the world's) biggest illuminated carnival and it is amazing! GOOD LUCK to Marketeers Carnival Club!

Em
xxx

Just a quick mention for my Monday night Taunton class! 33 at class tonight and general attendance has been excellent for the past few months!

Well done everybody - you could of gone out tonight for fireworks, bonfires and hot dogs but you came to class instead - fair play!

Not many classes left before the Christmas break now everyone so keep up the good work....

Em
x

I've been contacted by Channel 4 as they are looking for people for Wife Swap and they want a lady who is larger who promotes a positive image etc to her children! They said I would of been ideal but I am a bit short on the child front!!!

Not sure if I fancy swapping my John with anyone anyway but if you fancy having a go then the contact details are on the Latest News page....

If you do go for it - let us know how you get on!!

Emma

I can't believe it has been a month since I last posted on my blog! Where has the time gone!?!

Speaking of time - the clocks went back an hour last night which is fab as it mean't an extra hour in bed this morning which was well-used catching up on some sleep.....

The downside of the clocks going back though is the fact it will be darker so much earlier in the evenings and that has a knock-on effect on class numbers....this seems to have already taken effect though because class numbers last week were very disappointing!!! I know it was half-term but please try not to make excuses at this time of the year e.g its too cold, its too wet, its too windy, its too dark etc etc. If you do find yourself saying one of these then STOP and think if you would make the same excuses if you were due to go out for a meal or a night out with your friends - I think not!

Anyway - moan over!! There are only 7 weeks of classes left until we have a 3 week break for Christmas so keep up your momentum and I look forward to seeing you....

Em
x

Got back yesterday from a week away in Cornwall..... apart from being poorly at the beginning of the week with a horrible sickness bug (I will spare you the gory details!) - John and I had a lovely relaxing week. Lots of sleeping, eating and reading (or fishing in John's case!).

Didn't do much exercise but thats okay (fishing is most definitely not exercise!) because sometimes I think it is important to let your body totally rest and relax but back to normal this week starting with the Monday night class in Taunton tomorrow night!

What is absolutely incredible is that there are only 10 or 11 weeks of classes left until we stop for Christmas!!! I know it is a cliche but where DOES the time go??? Thinking about arranging the Christmas Meals for the classes soon so if you have any great suggestions of where we can go then let me know...

Emma
x

Hi

Got the October 2007 issue of Top Sante magazine today and there is an article in the "Happy New You" supplement which is called "20 Ways To Love Your Body" and Tip No. 3 and Tip No. 13 are written by me!!

The feature looks great but I am more excited about being in the same article as the legend that is Gok Wan from Channel 4's How To Look Good Naked!!! How exciting as I am a massive fan of Gok....

Just to bring you up to date - I havent ventured back out on my bike again yet but I will especially as The Tour Of Britain cycle race went through Somerset today and I have been inspired by the 105 fit men in tight cycle shorts! Ha Ha.....

Second week back for the Tuesday night class in Bridgwater tonight so hopefully you will all be there? It has been a gorgeous day today but dont be tempted to sit in the garden with a cold glass of wine and your feet up! Come along and get hot and swaety at an exercise class with me instead! No contest.....

Take care (I'm off to buy John some lycra cycling shorts!)

Em
x

Okay - the bikes got serviced so there was no excuse any longer!

John and I got on our bikes today and cycled down the canal to the pub for lunch!!! Now I did consider getting a taxi back after my roast dinner but I was very good and even cycled a bit further up the canal before we turned back.....

I really quite enjoyed getting out on my bike but I did get a bit of the old "saddle soreness". Why does that always happen??? Do you just need to harden up down there? If you have any suggestions then get in touch!

Now the other BIG news this weekend is I had a very radical hair cut!! I have had shoulder length naturally curly hair for the last 8 years or so but had a bit of a funny five minutes on Saturday and got my lovely hairdrsser Karen to chop it all off!!!

I have always had long hair but did go short about 10 years ago so I knew it would be okay and I am really pleased with it! What is funny is that some people so far haven't even noticed because I think they are so used to me having my hair tied back that it doesn't look much different than normal...

Let me know what you think of it next time I see you!!

Emma

 Hi

Don't laugh but tomorrow we are picking up our push-bikes from the shop after having a service.... so we can start getting out on our bikes!

Now this doesnt sound very unusual but if I am honest my bike is over 6 years old and I have only ever cycled about 6 miles on it (average one mile per year - not bad eh?)! It has been lying in my Mums shed for the past 4 years doing nothing so it has been at the bike shop for a spit and polish! I was a bit embarrassed when the man at the shop asked me why if it was 6 years old why does it still have the knobbly bits on the tyres!!?? Ooops....

Anyway as of tomorrow I will be doing my best to wear out the tyres and will try to improve my current average mileage - shouldn't be too hard!

Wanted to give a big shout out for all my Monday night clients in Taunton as they have really made a great effort to attend throughout August resulting in a best ever average class attendance for August so well done ladies!

Back for a "bike update" soon! If anyone has any cures for saddle-soreness then feel free to get in touch....

Em
x

 Hey!

Hope you are having a great weekend? Just wanted to give a big shout out to one of my best friends "Jen" who is a fabulous 40 today!!! Going out for a few birthday drinks tonight even though we are still recovering from the Dublin trip last weekend! You should always celebrate BIG birthdays in style!

Speaking of all things BIG! Have you heard the song "Big Girls You Are Beautiful" by Mika?

Its been out for a while but if you get the chance to hear it and take in the lyrics it is basically celebrating Big Girls! Great song for all big girls out there! You can listen to it via Mika'a website www.mikasounds.com .....

Em
x

Just got back last night from a long weekend in Dublin for my best friend Jen's 40th birthday! 11 girls went (including my Mum!) and we had a fabulous time!! Big hello to Jen, Alena, Lorraine, Jane, Nicky, Sarah, Donna, Tracey, my Auntie Yvonne and of course my Mum!

I have never been to Ireland before and I was amazed just how friendly the Irish people were and despite the rain we really enjoyed ourselves!

We visited the Guinness factory yesterday in Dublin  and although I did try very hard (including completely offending the locals by adding blackcurrant to my pint) - I am afraid I am not a convert of the "black stuff"!

I am however a complete convert to Ireland and can't wait to go back! If you haven't been and get the chance to go then you wont be disappointed.....

Back to reality and just a reminder to all my Monday night class clients in Taunton that I am away on a course in London as of this afternoon so there is no Monday night class at St Augustines school tonight! Will be back in time for this Thusrday's classes in Bridgwater and all back to normal on a Monday next week so see you all then!

Have a good week....

Em
xxx

Hi All

Hope you are all well and enjoying what little bit of Summer we have started having this week!

Due to the annual drop in class numbers at this time of the year due to holidays, the heat and other distractions like BBQ's, garden parties and mowing the lawn!!!??? I have decided to close the Tuesday night class for the month of August....

I know a few of the regular class members are a bit disappointed but you are more than welcome at the Thursday night classes in Bridgwater or the Monday night class in Taunton.... I also have details of other classes in the area if you fancy a change - just get in touch for details!

It was very warm at class tonight but we musn't complain and everybody worked really hard so well done!

Got a busy but fabulous weekend planned - will fill you in on the details when I get back!.......

Em
x

Hi

Bit disappointed (to say the least) as the NHS website that my Bridgwater class was filmed for has been published and although I was assured that the film was about being active no matter what shape or size you are - it turns out that the main focus is weightloss!!! AAAaaaaaaggggghhhh!!!

Why is it so hard to get across to people that I am not about losing weight! It is so hard to convert people to the way of being fit, happy and healthy REGARDLESS of your weight, shape or size when all they seem to do is be obsessed with the scales!

Sorry for ranting but it is very frustrating...

Anyway, my class members that were filmed are all gorgeous and they are all shapes and sizes BUT more importantly they enjoy exercise and reap all the benefits that goes with it! That is what is most important to me at the end of the day!

In case you haven't had a look yet CLICK HERE!

Emma
x

Hi

I am gutted as the latest series of Channel 4's How To Look Good Naked has finished!

I adore this programme and thought this series has been fabulous (even my other half John has watched a few episodes with me!).

Gok Wan who presents the show which encourages ladies to improve their self-confidence and ultimately change their lives without drastic action such as ridiculous diets, excessive exercise or silly surgery IS AN ABSOLUTE LEGEND!!!

I think he may be a guest on this weeks Friday Night with Jonathan Ross so tune in if you get chance.....

Em

Hi All

Have just had 2 weeks off from my Bridgwater classes (because I had to do some training at work) and so now I am wondering how many will not come back this week as you have got out of the habit!!??

I hope that you will all prove me wrong! We have a new aerobic routine to learn so be prepared for a workout for your brain as well as your bodies! As you know all of my routines are simple and aimed at beginners or those who just want a basic workout so we should pick it up fairly easily!

Unlike other instructors I dont change my routines very often as I find people like to know what they are doing rather than worrying about keeping up with new moves each week etc....

However please remember that if you do get bored or feel like you need more of a challenge - I am more than happy to recommend other classes in the area as it is important that you continue to exercise REGARDLESS of who is the teacher!! I wont be offended I PROMISE!!

Look forward to seeing you this week...

Em
x

Hi All

The last couple of weeks have been really hectic for so many reasons!!

My new baby niece Summer Rose was rushed into hospital at only 4 days old and had to have an operation and then 2 weeks recovering in Bristol Childrens Hospital but I am really pleased to say she came home yesterday! She is absolutely gorgeous and we have been so worried so it is such a relief for my brother and his wife-to-be to have her home again!

Have been settling into my new job at the BBC and learning loads! Because of some training I need to do in my new job there will be no Bridgwater classes for the next 2 weeks but I would be happy to see any of my Bridgwater clients come along to the Monday night Taunton class if they wanted to!

I am also hoping for some news about the Department of Health website that is due to be launched this month..... if you remember a film crew came along to one of my classes to film us in action and fingers crossed we didn't end up on the cutting room floor!! Will keep you posted...

Have a great week!

Emma
xxx

My apologies for being a slack blogger but have been very busy! Hope you are all well?

Just a note that there will be no Bridgwater classes during the first 2 weeks of June as I have to do some training for my new job at the BBC...

If you cant live without a class for those 2 weeks - you are more than welcome at the Taunton class on a Monday evening during both of those 2 weeks as it is only the Bridgwater classes that are affected!

I know that this coming week is half-term for many of you but try and make the effort to get to class as then we will be into those 2 weeks when there are no Bridgwater classes....

Emma
x

Hi All!

I CANNOT URGE YOU ENOUGH to watch the new series of Channel 4's HOW TO LOOK GOOD NAKED!

If you haven't seen it before then basically the most amazing man called Gok Wan (who I had the pleasure of interviewing once for the radio station when I was the resident fitness instructor there) takes a different lady each week who hates her body and has no self-confidence and with the help of some realism, some well-deserved complimenting, some love, tenderness and expert advice with NO surgery, silly diets or stupid regimes TRANSFORMS the woman into someone who is prepared to have her photograph taken in the nude (very tastefully) and then take part in a fashion show in public!

There have been 2 episodes so far of the new series and both have made me cry - (in a positive way!!!).

Loving your own body is not always easy and when people ask me how I found body confidence I struggle to answer as it was a gradual process but this programme is MUST SEE TV! Tuesday nights, Channel 4 at 8.00pm! Let me know what you think........

Em
x

Hi

Just a quick note to let you know I did a first aid course yesterday which I have to do every 3 years so I am now ready and raring to go with the bandages and the kiss of life should they be needed!!!

All joking aside - I hope I never have to use anything I learn't as it is quite scary being a first aider! Touch wood - never had anything too drastic happen in my exercise classes so lets keep it that way!

Hope you are enjoying the Bank Holiday weekend? We are just off to John's sisters Julie's for tea and I think I heard a rumour about one of her world famous trifles being on offer - yummy!

Em
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Hi All

Hope you have had a good week and have been enjoying this fabulous weather!! It has been positively "tropical" here in Somerset this week!

Tonight my 6.30pm exercise class in Bridgwater was filmed for a new Department of Health website due out in June which is going to encouarge people to be healthier. A big thanks to all of the class members that turned up (31 in total!) and also thanks to Sarah & Olly who carried out the interviews and filming with such consideration and no disruption....

I will let you know the details when the website goes live and we will then see if any of the footage is used!

Have a great Bank Holiday weekend and remember there are no classes held on a Bank Holiday!

Emma

Hi All

Sorry I haven't blogged for a while but life has been a bit hectic!!  I recently applied for a full-time position at BBC Somerset Sound radio and after a lengthy interview process - I was really chuffed to get the job!!!

DON'T PANIC - I am still going to be teaching my evening exercise classes and will DEFINITELY still continue to promote the fat & fit message!! So as far as you are concerned nothing has changed!! Very excited and looking forward to working for the BBC - a new challenge for me!

Classes have been nice and busy (we had 39 at last nights 6.30pm class!) so keep up the good work.....

There is a possibility that next week's 6.30pm Thursday class may be filmed for use on a national website (very high profile!) so watch this space for an update.....

Have a fabulous weekend!

Love

Emma
x

Hi All

Hope you had a fabulous Easter! I have just got back from a short break in Malta which was lovely! Bit of sunshine, lots of food, small amount of wine (!) and a few laughs!!

Went on a horse drawn carriage tour around Valetta and apart from feeling sorry for the poor horse felt quite scared going round corners as the roads in Malta are not very smooth!! Also went on a harbour cruise which turned into something like a scene from The Poseidon Adventure as it was a bit choppy!! Got a bit wet and for a moment thought we were on a ride at Alton Towers!! To think I once considered joining The Royal Navy!?

Anyway, would thoroughly recommend Malta and a big thanks to my Bridgwater class member Carol who recommended The Cordina Cafe in Valetta - as promised the tea and cakes were just gorgeous!!

Back to classes this week so hope to see you all there!

Emma
x

Happy Easter!!

Hope you all enjoy the long weekend! Please remember I always at this time of the year run a home for unwanted Easter Eggs so if you find yourself with too many, please do not hesitate to pass them on - Ha Ha!!!

There are no classes this coming week (Easter Monday week) as I am having a week off - yippee! But I am already looking forward to seeing you all back at classes as of Monday 16th April - especially those of you who have not been for a few weeks since the clocks changed! I know the light evenings are a temptation but remember Summer is coming and it wont be long before you are all panicking about your bikinis!!

I never panic about my bikini - thats because I haven't got one!

Had a bit of a nasty shock yesterday in M&S though - I went to buy a new swimming costume and ended up in the lingerie fitting rooms as they were the closest. Well, lets just say the lighting in those fitting rooms was not very forgiving and with mirrors at every angle I saw cellulite on my bottom that I didn't even know was there!!! Oh well - most of us have it so I am not going to stress about it but now I realise why your body puts the worst of it round the back where you can never see it!!!

Now what shall I do - have another Easter Egg or worry about my cellulite??? Decisions, decisions.....

Em

Hi All

Hope you are well?

Good news - the Top Sante article I took part in has been published and looks good! Its the May 2007 issue which is in the shops now so next time you are in the newsagents or at the supermarket - have a sneaky peak!! Seriously though I would recommend the magazine as it is a good read in general and a well respected health mag!

It's amazing what some decent make-up and great lighting can do in a photograph! It has reminded me of how we should all be aware that the photos we see and admire in papers and magazines every day have nearly always been well-lit or even adjusted by the wonders of modern technology and so often we are trying to aspire to a digitally enhanced image!!! I don't think Top Sante have digitally enhanced me as I seem to be in all my 16 stone glory - ha ha!

Have a good week - Easter is coming (yummy!).....

Em
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Hi All

Lots of new things this week! Class member t-shirts went on sale and have sold over 20 already which is great! It is so handy to have a t-shirt just for your exercise class then you don't have to worry about what to wear each week! Don't worry I don't have hundreds that I need to sell as they are produced to order so no pressure!!

Also have started using my new stereo this week and it is HUGE!! It is quite heavy and looks like a rocket launcher but the sound quality is excellent so a big thanks to Stuart at Sound Dynamics  for once again helping me with my audio needs!

Got another 2 weeks of classes before we have a week off for Easter so keep up the good work and you can then enjoy a week off scoffing loads of Easter Eggs - yummy!

Have a good week!

Emma

Last night I went to see "The Big Ballet" at The Bacon Theatre in Cheltenham! I have never been to a ballet before but the reason I particularly wanted to see this one was the fact that every single one of the ballerinas were 16 stone+ and they were outstanding!

The first half was all ballet and seeing a 16 stone+ ballerina on "points" was fantastic and their grace, flexibility and strength was inspiring! The second half however was the best part as there was 12 sets of dance productions with various styles of dances, some energetic, some graceful and some comedy based!

If you are a larger size woman who has any doubt that you can be fit at any size then get yourself along to see this production!! There are still another 9 or so dates left around the country and I would highly recommend this!!!

My only disappointment is that this ballet troupe were from Russia and not the UK - would we ever see this originate in this country or are we all too busy obsessing about size zero!!!

More details at www.thebigballet.co.uk!

Emma
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Hi All

An interview I did for In The Know Magazine has finally been published today! It is a very shortened version of what I did but I think my small piece has been used as part of a bigger article which is great as it helps to promote the fact that there are quite a few people out there enjoying the benefits of being fit and healthy REGARDLESS of their weight!

I was really pleased to see the "Big Ballet" mentioned in the article as I am off to see that show this Saturday with my friend and class member Emma! Two Emma's together - it gets very confusing! Will let you know what I think of the ballet!

Have a look at In The Know Magazine if you get chance (pages 46-47). Its in the shops now and has Nicole Kidman on the front! It is a weekly womens glossy magazine and a good read!

Have a great day - enjoy the sunshine!

Emma
x

Had the most fantastic day yesterday at a health spa with my Mum! It was a belated birthday present from Mum and Dad and it was lovely! Thanks Mum and Dad!! xxxx

We were pampered all day and the treatments we had were sheer bliss! Thanks to Steve, Suzanne, Hannah and the staff at Lorrens and a special thanks to Faye & Vee who were my therapists for the day! (Apologies for drifting off to sleep on more than one occasion! Is it so embarassing when you wake yourself up by your own snoring - ooops!)

I would highly recommend Lorrens which is a ladies only health hydro in Torquay, Devon and you can find their website at www.lorrens-health-hydro.co.uk.

Emma

Hi All

Have had a really busy week since I last blogged! Classes have been generally quite busy which is great and had a trip to London last Friday for a photoshoot for Top Sante magazine! Magazine due out early April so will keep you posted!

Also had a really fab night out with my girlfriends on Saturday in Bristol at the Jongleurs Comedy Club. I have never been to a comedy club before but it was such a good laugh (I suppose that sounds like I am stating the obvious but it really was a good night)! Here is a picture of all us girlies (in order Lorraine, Me, Hazel, Rose & Lyndsey):

You can find out more about Jongleurs Comedy Clubs at www.jongleurs.com!

Em
x

Great day yesterday at the Women In Business Fair in Bridgwater! This is the first time I have done an exhibition like this and thought it went really well!

Met lots of really interesting ladies and made lots of new contacts who I hope to be able to tell you more about soon...

Big thanks to Business Link for organising such a great and more importantly FREE event, thanks to all of those class members who came along to say hi and lend their support and finally a big thanks to my Mum who helped me man my stand all day and did a great job of promoting the company message!! (Sorry for telling you off for shouting the message too loud at one point!)

Emma

Hi All

I turned 33 yesterday!! Had a lovely day and just wanted to say thanks to all my family, friends and clients who sent cards, presents and best wishes!

I also had 3 birthday cakes and lots of chocolate - what more could a girl ask for!!

Emma
x

Morning All

Hope you are all well? Two things to mention this morning - Killers & Pancakes!!??

1) Went to the most amazing concert on Sunday at the NEC, Birmingham to see an american band called The Killers! It was John's idea really but I was blown away by them and thought they were fantastic! If you are not sure who they are - their most famous song is called Mr Brightside and you would probably know it if you heard it!

2) How were your pancakes last night? Yesterday was Pancake Day so hope you had some! We all worked extra hard in class last night so we could go home and enjoy them! Lemon and sugar does it for me everytime! What filling did you have?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my brother Mark! 32 today! For 3 days we are the same age and then I roll over to the next year!!! Age is just a number and all that!

Have a great day!

Em

Morning & A Very Happy Valentines Day to you all!

I am a bit of an old romantic really and so now that I am nicely settled down with John I enjoy Valentines Day instead of being bitterly disappointed just like when I was single when I never got a serious Valentine card or bunch of flowers that weren't sent anonymously by my Mum!!! (Thanks Mum x)

Find it a bit strange when people say Valentines Day is just a commercial excuse to get us to spend loads of money on cards, flowers, chocs, meals out etc but you never hear anyone saying that about Mothers Day do you?

Anyway, my point is today is a good day to think about YOUR HEART! Doesn't matter if it is bursting with love, fluttering with the excitement of a new romance or maybe even broken by a love lost (sorry!) - IF THE MOST IMPORTANT MUSCLE IN YOUR BODY STOPS WORKING BECAUSE IT IS NOT FIT, HAPPY & HEALTHY THEN NOTHING ELSE MATTERS!!!

So get out today and do something to get the heart going and keep doing it regularly because if we don't look after our hearts we wont get to see Valentines Days in years to come.....

HAPPY HEART DAY!

Emma
xxxx

Morning All!

Got up early to see if my article was in the paper today and it was! Daily Mirror pages 42 & 43! You can also view it on-line by CLICKING HERE!

Really pleased with the piece except for the quote where I am supposed to have said "I'm super fit..." which i did NOT say but apart from that it looks good!

Had a fun day in London earlier this week for the photographs and the other ladies were great! A special shout out to Diane Cox the beautiful belly dancer who was amazing and could move her body in such an unbelievable way - I was in awe! She also taught me how to shake my bottom (Beyonce style) which I have always wanted to be able to do so a big thanks to Diane and her partner Matt for that!!

Also a mention for Big Beautiful Brides - an amazing wedding dress shop in Weston-super-Mare (just up the road from me) who only offer dresses size 16+ and focus on making ladies feel really special!! Their website is www.bigbeautifulbrides.co.uk.

Have a great day!

Em
x

Hi

Have had a great weekend! Spent last night in Plymouth for my friend's daughter's hen night! Lots of girlies out on the town dressed in pink cowboy hats, gingham neckerchiefs and sporting water pistols! Had a great night but was made to feel rather old as I looked at all the young girls out on the town dressed in nothing more than their underwear!!! I found myself being concerned for their health i.e getting hyperthermia, catching a chill - I am definately the wrong side of 21!

Have just got back tonight from a really nice Chinese meal with John and his family for his sisters 50th birthday!

So it has been an eating, drinking, dancing, eating, drinking, dancing kind of a weekend - FAB!

Looking forward to a busy week including a trip to London for a photoshoot for the Daily Mirror (no - not page 3!!! WHO SAID THAT!?). More details to follow soon...

Have a good week!

Em

Hi All

Did you watch the Channel 4 TV programme last night at 9.00pm called "Strictly Lady Sumo"?

It was the story of a group of ladies who tried their hand at sumo wrestling and it ended with 4 of the best ladies going to Japan to compete for Great Britain! One of them won a silver medal! I thought the programme was great and yet again was a powerful message to all larger ladies to embrace their bodies and be strong, determined, passionate and achieve great things!!!

For more information you can check out the website www.sumo.org.uk.

Emma

P.S Library rant update - have been contacted by a Senior Manager from the Library Service who says I was mis-informed about the guidelines and subject to approval I can display my poster in the library!! Victory!!!

Hi

Going to have a rant about political correctness gone MAD!!! Went to my local library today to ask them if they could display a poster about my community based exercise classes in the library (they always used to!).

I was told the library was "unable to display any activity that resulted in financial gain"!!!???

If my classes were free then they could display my poster............

Now last time I checked your local library was supposed to be a hub of community information where you could go and find out everything there is to know about what is available and going on in YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY! AAAAAaaaaaaaaggggggghhhhhhhhhh!

Deep breath.... have made a complaint to the local county council and considering writing to the local paper. Not really bothered about the actual poster but more about the principle of the matter!

What is the world coming to?

Emma (very grumpy!)

Hi

What a gorgeous day it has been here in Somerset! Blimin' cold but fantastic sunshine all day! I love days like this... Every time I go outside I make sure I turn my face up to the sun to get some welcome natural light, help make some Vitamin D and encourage a few more wrinkles!! No seriously, at this time of the year especially if you are prone to depression or low mood you must make the most of any natural light you can as it does wonders for your spirits! If I had a lap top I would be typing this outside!!

Have you checked out Astrid's Top Ten Tips for Body Confidence yet in the Advice Section ? They are great - let me know what you think.

Also, check out the Latest News Section  for details of "The Big Ballet" - I am hoping to go and see this in March as it looks such fun and yet another chance to be positive about being a larger size. I'm just off to fish out my tutu....

Emma
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Hi All

Just realised I haven't "blogged" for nearly a week! How Lazy!!

Not a lot to report except getting back into the swing of things with classes in the community which is great. Got a few new people coming along and as always the regulars are making them feel welcome which is fantastic! It is really important to me that everybody feels welcome in the classes and no-one is left out!

Have been busy working on a few ideas I have in the pipeline as well as putting together a letter of complaint to one of the most popular fitness industry magazines who printed an item I was highly offended and appalled at - basically being very negative about overweight people! Had a good reply from the editor and hopefully my comments will be published in the next issue so watch this space!

Also just in the process of getting a new logo designed which is exciting! Will let you see it as soon as its ready!

Hope you are all well and have made a positive start to 2007 - remember everything in MODERATION except for "positivity" (no its not the name of a new chocolate bar!) which you can indulge in LOADS!!!

Em
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Hi All

Had a great first week back at classes! Good numbers and tonight in the 6.30pm Bridgwater class there were 43 class members!! A tight squeeze but a great class! Well done to all of you at classes this week for getting back into your exercise habit for 2007 - keep up the good effort!!

Did a telephone interview today for an upcoming article in the Daily Mirror about plus sizes who inspire people as a result of their work. They possibly want to do a photo-shoot as well so will keep you posted as to when the article is coming out! I love doing media opportunities as it gives me the chance to spread my message across the country and hopefully reach some more people who might not realise it is possible to be fit, happy and healthy regardless of your weight, shape or size!!

Would still LOVE to produce my own fitness DVD - especially at this time of year when every soap star and minor celebrity on the planet who has no fitness knowledge whatsoever seems to have a DVD out on the shelves...... but this is an expensive project so although I have most definitely not given up on the idea I just need to find what I did with that winning lottery ticket that I was convinced had 6 numbers on it......(going off to rummage down the back of the sofa in hope!).

Sleep tight!

Em
x

Well, Taunton class members did well last night - 28 turned up!! There were a few regulars missing so hope to see you all back next week?

Class went well although we were a bit late starting due to a last minute rush! Don't forget class starts AT 6.30pm so you need to arrive before then to have time to park, come in, go to the loo, pay me, say hi to your friends (or the woman you have exercised next to for the last year but still don't know her name!!) and then we can get going!

Looking forward to seeing you all back at Bridgwater class tonight...

Em

First class of 2007 tonight in Taunton! Bit nervous really, even though I have been teaching for over 8 years now - what if no-one turns up!!!??? Ha Ha... (nervous laugh)...

No, seriously the first class of a New Year is always a bit stressful as there are new routines to learn, new people (hopefully) to welcome and obviously EXERCISE to do! Shouldn't be too bad though as John and I have been to the gym several times over the holiday period which was good and helped me to keep my hand in!

Only thing is John has discovered he quite likes working out alongside a partner as it gives him someone to try and beat on the rowing machine! So now he is nagging me to train with him a couple of times a week!!

Will let you know how class goes tonight - BRING ON THE SWEATING!! (Only joking if you are new and thinking of coming along tonight - I promise to take it easy!)

Em
x

Hi All

Those of you that attend my classes will know that although I absolutely LOVE teaching exercise, I absolutely DREAD designing and learning new exercise to music routines for my classes! I seem to lack a bit of creativity and skill when it comes to putting together interesting routines!!

Anyway, everytime I get myself into a pickle about this subject - I stop and think for a moment about how people keep coming to my classes week in and week out (people vote with their feet through the door in this business) AND more importantly I am trying to attract people who are new or not used to exercise and who want to KEEP IT SIMPLE!!!

So, on that basis I have been working on my new aerobics routine today and have stuck to my motto of "keep it simple" and its DONE!! All I have to do now is to commit it to memory and try it out at my first class of 2007 on Monday evening in Taunton!!

So, my Taunton class members - come prepared for your new aerobics routine and new music for the rest of the class and together we will KEEP IT SIMPLE, work at our own pace, have fun and enjoy it!!

By the way this year myself and other instructors in the local community are making a big effort to recommend each others classes in an attempt to make sure everyone we come across finds a class that suits them i.e type of class, level of intensity, venue, day, time! Now, type, day and time are easy to talk about but I know that class members may feel awkward if they go to a class and find it is too easy or too hard or maybe they just don't like the style of the instructor and they just end up not going again and subsequently not doing any exercise at all!

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE talk to me if you feel that you need a change of class as it is far better for me to recommend another instructor to you than for you to let your exercise habit dwindle! I promise I won't bite!!

Have a good weekend!

Emma

HAPPY NEW YEAR! I do hope that 2007 brings you everything you wish for!

You will NEVER believe what happened to John and I on New Years Eve!!!! We were travelling north to Leeds to spend New Year and we stopped at Trowell Services on the M1 for fuel. I pulled up behind a nice looking car at the fuel pumps and was patiently waiting for the owner to return from paying and pull away so I could move forward. (I can tell you are getting bored by this story but hang on in there...)

Out from the petrol station and walking towards the car was a young couple and I thought they looked familiar and then I realised - IT WAS PRINCE WILLIAM & HIS GIRLFRIEND KATE MIDDLETON!!!!!

We were both so shocked as you just dont expect to meet Royalty in a service station! Well the funniest thing was that as he pulled forward, so did I and he turned the wrong way (almost colliding with the large Range Rover which we think contained his bodygyards) so he started to reverse and almost reversed into me!!! He looked back, waved and apologised!!

Can you imagine if he had reversed into my car - I bet my insurance company wouldn't of believed me!!

Anyway, thats my little claim to fame for the end of 2006 - who knows what 2007 will bring!

Emma
x

Hi All!

Have been having a well-earned Christmas rest (have been playing the CD jukebox that John & I got for Christmas - its fab!) and I am now beginning to get back to normal! Just the New Year celebrations to go and then we will be into 2007!

I usually get a bit emotional around New Year as I think about all the things that I have/haven't done and all the things I want/don't want to do in the next 12 months! But when I stop and think about 2006 - it hasn't been a bad one really.... A special mention to my close friend Jen who has spent this past year bravely fighting breast cancer and is now doing really well, embracing life and continuing to be positive - love you loads mate!

Just want to ask you all a favour if thats okay? PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE dont make any silly New Years resolutions about going on a diet, losing weight or giving up something that you love because if I was a betting woman I could make a lot of money at the bookies if I placed bets on which resolutions would fail by the end of January! Now I am not trying to be negative but ask you to try setting yourselves a POSITIVE resolution about something you are going to do that is realisitc, achievable, maintainable, good for you and will more importantly make you HAPPIER and HEALTHIER!?

Life is so precious and short so think carefully..........

All my best wishes for 2007

Emma
xxx

I got an award yesterday afternoon!! Its an award that most of you would be able to achieve as well if you only gave up an hour of your time threee times a year!?

I gave blood yesterday in Taunton and it was my 10th donation and so you get your bronze award which is lovely certificate and a pin badge!

Giving blood is such an easy thing to do and your single donation of just under a pint can help to save three lives! None of us know when we, our family or friends may need blood and stocks at this time of year are traditionally low so please go along and donate if you can - it actually makes you feel quite nice to have done something so positive! PLUS you get tea and biscuits afterwards and you have to have them because IT IS THE LAW!! Ha Ha!

Did you know there is even a blood donation session being held in Taunton this year on Boxing Day! For more information you can either ring 08457 711 711 or you can look at www.blood.co.uk.

Emma

Morning

Well, thats another Christmas meal eaten!! I am starting to feel like the Vicar of Dibley in that episode where she had to eat lots of Christmas dinners in one day!!

Last night was the Bridgwater exercise classes Christmas meal at the lovely Friendly Spirit in Cannington and the food and company were gorgeous!

I would also like to say a huge and sincere thank you to all the class members who collected between them to buy me a fantastic new sports watch for Christmas!!! I was so surprised and very, very chuffed with my new watch - it is fab and more importantly it is purple!! Your kind words and support of my classes in the community are very much appreciated - but dont think I am going to let you all off lightly in classes when we get back in the New Year!! Ha Ha!

A night in tonight and one more Christmas meal tomorrow night - by Christmas Day I will be fit to burst!! Now, where did I put that tin of Quality Street......

Emma
xxx

Hi All

Thanks to everyone who attended the Taunton exercise class Christmas meal last night at the fabulous Hankridge Arms in Taunton. We had a lovely time! Although half of my Taunton clients seem to be carrying some kind of illness or injury at the moment (nothing to do with my classes - I am assured!!) they all turned up for a lovely evening. I was rather disappointed at how many people chose fruit salad for dessert (no need to go for the healthy choice on my part ladies...) but then I discovered it was served with a massive dollop of clotted cream!!!

Anyway - Merry Christmas to all my Taunton clients and now its the turn of the Bridgwater classes. 38 of us are due for the class Christmas meal tonight so look forward to seeing you all there later....

Have a GREAT day!!

Emma
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Hi All

Last week of my evening exercise classes this week before we have 3 weeks off for the festive season!!! Now most people know that I am a bit of a humbug at Christmas as I can't really be doing with all the fuss but I do enjoy some time off to kick back and relax for a few days so really looking forward to that!

Just to say those of you who make it to classes this week will be in for a Christmas treat! Not only will you get to see me in my lovely "Bah Humbug!" Christmas hat kindly given to me by Trish from the Thursday 8.00pm class but you will also be exercising to some really cheesy Christmas tunes and will be encouraged to dip your hand in the Quality Street tin on the way out! If the Register of Exercise Professionals found out I an dishing out chocolates at the end of my classes this week I would probably be struck off!

Please make an effort to attend this week if you can - I know life is busy at the moment but it is easy to make excuses and it is fascinating that so many people are able to make the class Christmas meals next week but are too busy to exercise this week!!??

Hope to see as many of you as possible on Thursday for the last evening classes of 2006! Have a good week.....

Em

Hi

A client of mine made a point tonight of telling me after my class that I inspired her!

This means the world to me and makes all the hard work, effort, sweat & sometimes tears (!) so very very worthwhile.....

We dont often tell people how we feel except perhaps close friends or family but you would be surprised how much it could mean to someone to know they are appreciated - so if someone inspires you why not tell them next time you see them? The simple things mean so much...

Take care

Emma
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Morning All!

Feeling a lot better following my eating competition outrage yesterday! Sorry about all that...

How exciting - today we all get to open our advent calendars and have a perfect excuse to each a chocolate everyday for the next 25 days!!! Big thanks to my Mum who bought me my calendar (even though I am 32 and should know better!). Forgot to get John a calendar but dont think he has noticed it is December yet so nipping out today to pick one up (hopefully they will be half price by now - ha ha!)

All joking aside - remember my advice about everything you like in moderation so enjoy your daily choccie treat throughout December, dont try to resist as you will only end up giving in and over-indulging anyway!

Em
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I AM SO ANNOYED!!! In the news today, they have shown details of Britain's first competitive eating contest and to make matters worse it was held right here at Wookey Hole in Somerset!!! Competitors had to eat as many mince pies as they could in 10 minutes!

Now this probably sounds a bit funny at first but can you believe it - this is a serious regular occurence in America and they even have the United States of America governing body of professional Stuffing Your Face, IFOCE (The International Federation of Competitive Eating). They even call competitive eating a "sport"!?!

I'm sorry but in this day and age of eating disorders, famine in parts of the world, poverty, a so-called obesity epidemic and a tendancy for unhealthy lifestyles - should this kind of event be encouraged and what sort of message is it sending to children! Can you imagine the uproar if someone wanted to hold a binge-drinking competition!? I really dont think this event was funny or appropriate..........

I mentioned mince pies in my last blog entry but I am not so sure about them now...(?)

Emma

Hi All

A busy week at work - class numbers still good considering its that time of year when preparations for Christmas start to take over everyones life! Well done to all my clients for keeping up the good work! 3 weeks of classes left until our Christmas break!

My good news for the week is that I bumped into an ex-client who I haven't seen for quite a few months and she told me how she is training for the London Marathon next year. I was so impressed and really pleased for her - go for it Debbie! You will be fab! Another client reported how her GP was really pleased as her blood pressure has gone down - great news!

My bad news is the constant reports of people going on silly, quick-fix, unrealistic "diets" that makes them feel fed up and awful in order to slim down for Christmas! I really don't understand why people embark on something they know has a 95% failure rate so that once they reach the 25th December they can eat everything and anything that is not nailed down, put all the weight back on and end up feeling rotten for the New Year and then start another "diet"! Here's a novel idea - eat and drink everything you like in moderation all the time and feel good all the time.....

Now where did I put those mince pies...........

Em

You are probably wondering why the weird heading for this blog but I have lots to tell you!!

Pump & Balance
On Saturday morning I went to Yeovil where I had been invited by lovely fellow fitness instructor Debbie Knight to take part in her BodyPump and BodyBalance classes. Debbie wont mind me saying but she too is a larger size instructor and she taught two fantastic classes that I really enjoyed! It was so nice to meet another instructor with the same approach as myself! Thanks Debbie for your kind invite!

Gok Wan - Every Woman Should Have One!!
I was lucky enough to help interview Gok Wan today for the radio station where I have my weekly fitness slot. Gok was the presenter of Channel 4's "How To Look Good Naked" series recently and I just think he is amazing!! He is passionate about boosting women's body image, esteem and self-confidence by helping them to dress to suit their size/shape and basically learn to love themselves! I think every woman should have their very own Gok and I had so much fun speaking to him today! I am going to try and make further contact with Gok to see if he would be prepared to endorse my work in some way so fingers crossed and watch this space....

Have a great Monday!

Em

Hi All

Didn't win the speaking clock competition but still really, really chuffed to have been one of the final 15 out of 18,405 entrants!! Sara - the lady that did win works as a professional voice over artist so it was very stiff competition!

Thanks to all of you who have contacted me today and over the last few days wishing me luck and showing your support! I have had great fun and enjoyed all of the local press attention!

If anyone wants to make me feel better you are welcome to call me and ask the time so I can pretend that I won! Ha Ha!! (Only joking by the way!!!)

Have a great weekend!

Emma
xxx

Well everyone - I cannot stop laughing about my week so far!!! A few weeks ago I entered a Children In Need competition to become the new voice of the BT Speaking Clock (you dial 123 in case you didnt know!). Well can you believe it but I have made it to the final 15 contestants out of over 18,000 who entered!!!

I am so amazed and quite excited really as I never expected for it to go this far!!! Had lots of contact today from the local press including the Bridgwater Mercury, Orchard FM, BBC Somerset Sound and BBC Points West TV!

HOW EXCITING!!!!!

I'm off to bed for some well-needed (!) beauty sleep as the Bridgwater Mercury are coming to take my photo at 8.30am tomorrow morning!

Will keep you informed........ ha ha ha ha ha ha (can't stop chuckling to myself!). At the third stroke the time will be....... BEEP BEEP BEEP! (Do you think I need to make my own beep noises?).

Em
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Hi

Sorry for not posting a blog for a few days but have been really busy with our local Carnival season which the other half is involved with. Lots of hanging around in the cold and wet and lots of late night parties! Off to the last Carnival tonight in Weston-super-Mare so hope the rain holds off! So my Monday night class clients will enjoy a well-deserved night off tonight!

Just wanted to tell you about what I have been up to this afternoon - I went with Jo (the presenter from the radio station I do my weekly fitness slot for) to have a go at "Archery"! We were recording this ready for my fitness slot on Wednesday as I can't be there in person this week. We had a great   time and I have never tried archery before but we learnt how to stand, load the bow and aim for the target etc and it was great fun! We had a mini-competition but the result was a draw! (Good job really as we are both quite competitive!). Thanks to the lovely staff at Huish Woods for letting us loose on the archery range!

It got me thinking about how often we dismiss things in life without trying them especially when it comes to different types of exercise and physical activity! So as they say "don't knock it 'til you've tried it"!

Emma

I have just watched the first part of the new Channel 4 series "Too Big To Walk". This 3-part programme over 3 consecutive nights this week looks really interesting and really brings home the many different reasons people are overweight and how they deal with it etc. BUT I WAS ABSOLUTELY SHOCKED AND ASHAMED OF MY HOME TOWN (BRIDGWATER)!!! I didn't know this before I watched tonight but they filmed the walkers going through Bridgwater during the early stages of their journey and they filmed local kids shouting abuse at them, calling them names and generally being rude and offensive!!

I cannot understand how anyone feels they have the right to shout abuse at strangers on any subject whether it be weight, looks, clothing - whatever.... I think this is terrible, offensive and completely unnecessary - this would have been bad enough but this was filmed in my own home town!!! What is the world coming too???

Very sad...

Emma

Hi

Well, I stumbled out of bed this morning (late night!) to go to the newsagents to buy The Guardian only to find they didn't have any! Convinced they had sold out due to the piece about me (NOT!) I had to walk to the next newsagents down the road for a copy. I paid for the paper and then proceeded to leaf through it at the counter to find my article and proudly showed the woman behind the counter my picture. She looked at the picture, looked at me and squinted as if she didn't believe it was me and then I realised I had left the house in my oldest, baggiest tracksuit bottoms and a ropey looking hooded top, no make-up and I hadn't brushed my hair!! Not exactly the image of health!?

Anyway, the lady in the newsagents seemed suitably impressed and I scuttled home and back to bed to read the article! Really pleased with the piece as I always appreciate any chance to spread the message about being fit and healthy regardless of your size and believe me it is not often covered by the media! Here is a link to the article (although no pictures on there): http://money.guardian.co.uk/workweekly/story/0,,1938959,00.html

Let me know what you think?

Have a good day...

Em
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Phew what a day - it feels like I haven't stopped all day! Had my weekly radio slot first thing, then my Over 55's Club exercise class this morning then I covered a class for a fellow instructor this afternoon and have just got back from my monthly sports massage on my legs which always really hurts!!!

In between the Over 55's and the cover class I came home to meet the Guardian newspaper photographer to have my photo taken for the article due to be published this Saturday. What I thought would be a 10 minute job turned into over an hour or so! The photographer (Mark) was great and helped to put me at ease but he took LOADS of photos - I wondered if it was because he just couldn't get a decent shot of me - Ha Ha! Most of the photos were taken in the middle of the park across the road from my house and we did get a few strange looks as there was me sat on a stability ball with a pair of pink dumbells striking a pose!?!

Anyway my clothing crisis was short-lived as I decided to go safe and wear all black only to be told by Mark when he arrived that black doesn't photograph well for newspapers so had to hastily grab the first coloured item I came across which was my gold sparkly lycra crop top - JOKE!!! Don't worry, my faithful red vest top came to the rescue.

Fingers crossed that the lovely Mark (photographer) has caught my better angle and the article goes ahead for this Saturdays Guardian newspaper (in the Work supplement apparently) - will let you know!

Have a good evening

Em
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Happy Halloween Everybody! More importantly Happy Wedding Anniversary to my Mum & Dad who have been married for 36 years today!!! Can't believe my parents got married on Halloween!?

Have just been out to get my witches hat and some Halloween goodies for my class tonight so if you are coming along you will be in for a treat!

Having a mini-dilemma as tomorrow I am being photographed for an interview I have given to the Guardian newspaper about my work as a larger size instructor and haven't got a clue what to wear? They want a fitness type look but I am really not sure what to put on!? Should I go smart and trendy fitness instructor look or the real me in my baggy t-shirt and red sweaty face! Ha Ha!

No, seriously I think I will dig out my favourite exercise clothes as if you are wearing something you like you always look and feel more comfortable. Will let you know how it goes...

Off to disconnect my doorbell now as I cant be doing with the trick or treaters - Bah Humbug! (oops wrong season!).

Emma
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Hi

Hope you had a good weekend? Just a quick entry to say I am still working on the website and adding/amending pages as I go along. If there is anything you would like to see added or any general comments about the site so far then please get in touch E: feedback@xlemma.co.uk. Looking forward to my class tonight in Taunton especially as I will have been sat at my computer most of the day so will have lots of energy to expend so watch out!!

Emma

Morning

Just wanted to say how class numbers were a little disappointing last night? Perhaps it is the half term effect? Some class members mentioned how hard it is to come out when the nights are turning cold and dark. Well - if you suffer from cold/dark night syndrome may I suggest a cure.... Stop and think how you would feel about the cold/dark night if you were heading out for a night out with the girls, your weekly darts night or a lovely meal and a bottle of wine with friends... I'm sure if that was the case the fact it was cold, dark or nightime wouldn't even enter your head!?

What do you think?

Off to lunch today with the lady who actually taught me to be an aerobics teacher 8 years ago - really looking forward to it as we always have a good catch up and I get chance to pick her brains about the highs and lows of being an aerobics teacher including cold/dark night syndrome! Ha Ha!

Em

Hi All

Well here is my first blog on my new site www.xlemma.co.uk! I am so excited about building my first website and in case you haven't realised I have done it myself!! I was going to spend lots of money on employing a fancy website designer but thanks to a recommendation from a fellow fitness instructor I am trying to do it myself first!

So far I am really impressed with how easy it is and I am spending all my free time trying to put on as much information as I can!

Will post again soon - just off to get ready for my 2 classes in Bridgwater tonight!

Emma
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P.S If you notice any spelling mistakes - let me know! You know how fussy I am!!