A Chat with GMFIT
We interviewed Georgia Mascarenhas – owner of GMFIT; a Personal Training business based on the Northern Beaches that focuses on a holistic approach to health and fitness. We all know how important keeping active is, but Georgia is here to redefine the world of health – encouraging parents to get motivated, get moving and get mindful. She is also bringing ParentHood360 readers a special discount. Check it out below.
Thanks for chatting with us today! Tell us a little but about what you do?!
Thank you for reaching out! I currently manage two gyms – Plus Fitness 24/7 Balgowlah and Lindfield as well as running GMFIT – my PT business helping people become their best self. I’ve got a really strong focus on mental health and wellbeing, and I’m a holistic wellness trainer that goes far beyond the physical. I’ve always wanted to help people, and it’s my mission to make people feel like the best version of themselves – in whatever form this is.
Why do you love it?
I find so much satisfaction in knowing that I’m helping people. It gives me such a sense of purpose knowing I have helped someone feel genuinely good and confident in themselves in a way that suits them. I’ve made so much progress within my own life over the past few years and I absolutely love that I get to share that with others and allow them to do the same!
Now let’s chat about Mums and Dads. Life is busy! Sometimes, it’s hard to prioritise exercise. Is it really that important?
This is a question I get all the time – and my answer is yes – of course!
Don’t dismiss the time you need to take out for YOURSELF. I train many parents, and I always tell them that you really can’t help anyone else until you help yourself. If you want to be the best parent, partner, friend, you need to prioritise YOU!
Now I totally get it – hours at the gym everyday just isn’t realistic – and nor is it good for your health! I am all about doing small, achievable things each day (with or without kids) that are going to get you closer to your goals – these small things add up in the end I promise.
What about for new mums? I know so many new mums feel scared going back to the gym – or maybe, this is their first time. How do you make them feel comfortable?
It’s SO important that we acknowledge just how much a mum has changed after pregnancy and giving birth. Her body is different, her mental state may be more fragile, and there are so many learning curves along the way. I always tell mums who might feel uncomfortable that it’s okay to feel a bit different than you were before – can you believe you just created a whole new person, how crazy is that?
Be kind to yourself. I have always wanted to create an environment where anyone can feel comfortable no matter their ability, shape, fitness level or mental health struggles.
I’ve also just completed a Pre and Post Natal Training course which has really opened my eyes to some more insights. It’s so important that you find a trainer who you feel comfortable with, and who knows what changes you’re going through. Be patient with yourself and I hope you find the courage to accept the changes you have undergone and know there are so many people who are feeling the same. I really do believe your mental health should be yours and your trainer’s priority.
What’s something you’ve learned about while training parents?
Oh my gosh – parents are SO hard on themselves. You need to be kind to yourself and patient with your goals. Mums and Dads are so busy taking care of everyone around them, and I think you set unrealistic expectations of what you need to be. Slow it down, find a trainer who cares, and go easy on yourselves.
My other big lesson is this – it doesn’t have to ‘stop’ once you’re a parent. You don’t have to stop being you. At our gym – it’s so easy to adapt. There is no reason to feel like you’re any less because you can’t do certain exercises – a good trainer should know these adjustments and make sure you feel comfortable, no matter where you’re starting.
I love that I can adapt, and train mums at the gym, at home, with their little ones – wherever! It brings me so much joy seeing parents feeling their best physically AND mentally, and that’s exactly why I started.
GMFIT has parented with us as a brand ambassador and is offering ParentHood360 readers a special Parent Promo.
On top of an existing free consultation, Georgia is offering 10% off all sessions and packages. Ongoing training can be at Plus Fitness Gym Balgowlah/Linfield, at public parks or at home. No gym membership is necessary.