Nickey’s Journey: Proving It’s Never Too Late to Change
Almost three years ago, Nickey Marais reached a turning point. After years of neglecting his health, he found himself in an unhappy and unhealthy place both physically, mentally and emotionally. “I knew it was time for change,” he says. That is when a member of the False Bay Rugby Club suggested he give False Bay Fitness a try. It turned out to be one of the best decisions he ever made.
Walking through the doors for his very first class was daunting. “Making the decision to rock up for the first class was the hardest part,” Nickey recalls. But the real shock came after his first 20-minute warm-up. “Yes that’s right, on my first day I went home after the warmup and could not walk properly for almost a week!”
“False Bay Fitness was different. “It is a culture, a diverse group of like-minded people who inspire you just when you need it, support you on the days you are not feeling it and push you when you are ready to give up.””
Still, something inside him wanted more. “Once I experienced the culture, I could not help but want more of it and I kept coming back.” Nickey had tried other gyms before, but they never stuck. “There was always a lack of motivation and progress,” he says.
False Bay Fitness was different. “It is a culture, a diverse group of like-minded people who inspire you just when you need it, support you on the days you are not feeling it and push you when you are ready to give up.”
The welcoming community and encouraging coaches made all the difference. “The coaches often believe in us more than we do. That is special.” For Nickey, it is impossible to single out just one highlight. “The amount of times I have left the gym with a huge smile on my face cannot even be counted.”
Since joining, Nickey’s fitness has improved across the board including strength, endurance, mobility and stamina. “The programming is gold!” he says. But the benefits have gone far beyond the gym floor. “Everything improves including sleep, energy levels, mental clarity and overall mental health.” His proudest achievement? “Becoming consistent. Everything else is just a product of showing up.”
Training at False Bay Fitness has become an essential part of Nickey’s day. “The gym is where I recharge. I need it to function and be the best me.” The friendships he has formed, the support from the community and the sense of belonging have all been unexpected but deeply meaningful. “When you go on this journey and work hard to achieve your goals, you learn to love and respect yourself,” he says. “You become a better version of yourself and the evolution never stops as long as you keep showing up.”
Nickey’s advice to anyone thinking about joining is simple: “Reach out and become part of the community. This will help you through the tough days and push you to show up when you don't feel like it. It helps knowing there is someone waiting for you. You will not have regrets. And remember, nobody is looking at you.”
And something you may not know about Nickey? “I like animals and nature… probably more than I like people,” he laughs.
Feeling motivated by Nickey’s transformation?
No matter your starting point, your goals, or your reason for stepping through our doors, False Bay Fitness is ready to guide you toward a stronger, healthier, and more confident you.
Book a trial class and start your journey today.
