Hi I’m Michelle Vettese,
A normal, married mum of two, who has a passion for keeping in shape and lifting weights. It wasn’t until earlier this year (2020) when Covid-19 hit and we went into lockdown, and my job was on the line, that I made the decision to go ahead and complete my Personal Training qualification. I have always enjoyed showing and passing on my expertise to my friends, but never thought of doing it as a job. I was a little scared, being 38 years old, therefore quite old to be coming into this industry, but my friends and family convinced me to go for it.
It all started in 2014, I did a little bit of cardio, I was quite slim and I weighed
around 8.5 stone. I attended my first power weight class, which I went along to with a friend, I really enjoyed the class, and afterwards I felt absolutely amazing (I hurt the next day, and the day after, and the day after that), but I could not wait to go back. I never in a million years thought I would enjoy lifting weights, and actually thought they would make me really big and bulky, which is what most women think, right?
Wrong, after a few months of classes I noticed big changes. My body was changing shape, and I started to look solid and tight, I could see some definition in my abs, shoulders and arms. I put on a tiny bit of weight but I didn’t care because I was the same dress size and I felt really good about myself for the first time ever, I had a holiday that year and felt so confident walking around the water park in my bikini, which I have never done so before.
I have been lifting consistently for around 6 years now but the last couple I have ramped up the weight training. I now work more on strength, which I am so in love with because it is so
empowering, now lifting heavier than I have ever lifted.
If you meet me, you will see I am quite small, a petite 5.2 lady with a dress size of 8-10 and looking a healthy weight. Now if I tell you my BMI is completely out the window, I weight 9.6 and only a couple more lbs in weight I am classed as overweight!!! Yes you read that correct, I am over a stone heavier than when I first started lifting weights, but I am the same dress size, and my body looks lean and strong. I never weigh myself, I would rather see the changes in the mirror than on the scales any day.
A lot of people ask me what I do to stay in shape, its really simple, work hard and work smart. I do 1 HIIT (cardio) session per week and 3 weight training, that is it. My diet is clean most of the time, but I still have the odd treat, I am human too. The key is being consistent, and starting again tomorrow if you have a bad day.
Please do not get upset over the scales, get rid of them, concentrate on the inches lost instead.
I’m 38 years old and feel more confident, and in better shape than when I was 21. I want to show my children that exercise is important but not to let it take over your life. I want to show men and women that keeping in shape can be enjoyable and you can still enjoy your life.
If you have any questions or queries, please email me at michelle@gymvettese.co.uk and I will be happy to help.
Michelle