Meet Cheryl Tanner, a North Shields based trailblazer in the field of menopause fitness and nutrition coaching.
Very early in my fitness career I was aware the majority of people I was coaching were women who were navigating the menopause, especially through the early stages of perimenopause. During this time there were few resources and research about the menopause. There were limited conversations surrounding this topic because back then it was something to be embarrassed about or it was spoken about in hushed tones.
I was fortunate to have like-minded women in my classes who were comfortable to talk to each other about their symptoms, such as hot flushes, fatigue, sleep deprivation and their struggles whilst navigating menopause.
The lack of education surrounding the menopause frustrated me during this time. My clients inspired me to pursue this topic and find out more. Fortunately over the years we have this information accessible and I invested into menopause courses, resources and I’ve spoken to many experts in their field to become the only qualified menopause fitness and nutrition coach in the North East and provide the tools and education to pass this knowledge on.
What advice would you give to women in North Shields looking to start their fitness journey?
Life is and in my opinion, will always be busy. We all wear different hats such as being parents, carers, workers, family support, friend support, a wife or husband and this demand can be difficult. You may have many social events such as birthdays, weddings, christenings, holidays but that’s probably only 6 weeks in total of the year. What about the other months? How often do you scroll on your phone? binge on a new TV series? it doesn’t take hours to put your mind and body first. I have women training with me daily who have never lifted a weight in their life. I have women who have had knee and hip replacements, slipped discs, surgery, have had a hysterectomy and they all started a regime which was personal and specific to their own goals.
You can make a positive change with your health for longevity and sustain it, you must push past the fear and uncertainty in order to get where you want to be. At the end of the day you have you for the rest of your life.
Can you share a memorable success story from one of your clients?
Wow, I have many memorable success stories over the years, however the most recent success story was when one of my clients came to her training sessions with tears in her eyes. She said she saw a glimpse of herself in the mirror and that was the first time she realised how much she has changed both physically and mentally.
This particular lady was obese before she started changing her lifestyle habits, the scales couldn’t read her weight, she had been through the wars and is a widow with no family support.
Her new confidence has helped her excel in her health, fitness and wellness goals. She’s learning to drive at age 57, she’s dating and she enjoys retail therapy. In fact I keep getting the blame because of all the outfits she keeps buying due to her continued fat loss results. Her physical and mental strength is inspirational.
How do you ensure your fitness programs are accessible to everyone in the community?
I offer fitness and nutrition coaching online or in my private studio in North Shields. If childcare is an issue you can bring them along. My most popular semi private classes cater to 8 people maximum. You are provided with a tailored personal plan specific to your own goals. If you lack confidence or it has been a while since you have exercised I have 121 or partner training options. If there is something specific you require, get in touch because I can tailor a package for your own needs. At the end of the day not one size fits all.
What’s the best piece of fitness advice you’ve ever received?
What does practice make?
Perfect ❌️
No, there’s no such thing.
Practice makes PROGRESS.
What upcoming projects or initiatives are you excited about?
I am excited to start my corporate ‘Menopause in the workplace’ workshops in September. My training will help educate local businesses, communities and staff to create a menopause-friendly environment through lifestyle, nutrition, exercise and stress-reduction strategies to promote inclusive, action and positive thinking around navigating the menopause.
What’s your top tip?
Be creative. I add fruit, nuts and protein powder to fage yoghurt. 0% Fage yoghurt is high in protein, low in fat and loaded with live cultures which is great for gut health. It is additive and preservative free.
What’s the funniest moment you’ve experienced during a fitness session?
One of my clients was squatting and while I was checking her foam and technique I noticed a bulge on her right ankle. When we investigated we both burst out laughing. It was a pair of knickers which were stuck in her jogger bottoms. She insisted they were clean and were straight on after the wash. Life is great when you embrace whatever happens. We have a lovely community with a sense of humor, that’s certainly the icing on the cake.
What are some of your favourite local spots in North Shields to relax or get inspired?
I am an outdoor adventurer, I enjoy being at the coast and if I’m not teaching my stretch and sea dip on King Edwards Bay, I’m paddleboarding along the coast.
I enjoy taking my children to Northumberland Park and the Royal Quays marina to feed the ducks and have a picnic.
Cheryl Tanner
Menopause fitness coach
T:07547 288273
