Make fitness your basic

Meet Aniek Kluin, a 20-year-old powerhouse, currently on an inspiring journey at the Fashion Institute, specialising in Fashion and Business & Development. Aniek radiates determination and creativity, not only in her studies but also in her pursuit of a fit and happy lifestyle.

She’s passionate about pushing her limits, and Aniek thrives in the gym, dedicating herself to at least four invigorating workouts each week. Only 1.5 years ago, she conquered a half marathon in the Netherlands, a testament to her motivation and commitment. Now Aniek aspires to run a full marathon, a goal that gives her motivation to train!

Fitness is more than physical
Fitness for Aniek is more than just a routine – it's her source of self-empowerment. Sweating it out not only revitalises her body, but also fuels her mind. Post-workout, she's armed/ been fuelled with renewed energy and heightened focus – at Basic-Fit, this is what we like to call the afterglow. The transformational power of fitness has given her newfound strength and self-confidence which enhances her bravery in work and life!

A story of progression
However, these healthy habits didn’t come overnight, Aniek needed to overthrow some of her personal barriers on her journey to strength and endurance. She kick-started her fitness expedition with home workouts, later transitioning to the gym. The early days were daunting, stepping into the unknown, yet her focus remained unshaken. Even the pandemic's unwelcome intrusion couldn't dampen her spirits. In the face of gym closures, she embraced running with gusto/passion and accomplished a half marathon in Enschede, The Netherlands. Her ability to adapt, thrive, and break through barriers is a true testament to her resilience.

To those grappling with their own insecurities and challenges, Aniek offers invaluable advice: Every triumph has its origins in a humble beginning. Embrace the uncertainty, seek inspiration from others, and never underestimate the power of gradual progress.

Aniek's journey serves as a reminder that each hurdle is an opportunity to grow stronger.
Fitness has contributed to Aniek's happiness and well-being. Beyond physical gains, it has nurtured a sense of accomplishment, serving as a save heaven from stress and filling her days with positivity. Her journey has been marked by newfound endurance and strength, and it has fostered a profound appreciation for her body's capabilities

Aniek’s gifts for you
Aniek's top tips for those embarking on their own fitness odyssey are a beacon of wisdom: Begin with gentle strides, allowing your strength to grow over time – there is no need to rush yourself. Find joy in the diversity of activities, ensuring your motivation stays ignited. And above all, heed the signals your body and mind give – be nice, rest is a vital part of progress.

Meet Tim, a multi-talented individual – singer, actor, and drama teacher extraordinaire! At 24 years of age, he lives a healthy and happy life.

Grounding and fuelling his vibrant life as an actor, singer, and drama teacher, lies a journey of remarkable transformation - a journey that made him shed an impressive 45 kilos! Not only to look better but to feel happier and grasp the moments of life that matter.

Fuelled by adversity
The driving force behind this remarkable journey? Tim's aspiration to live life on his terms is fuelled by the echoes of past adversaries. Sadly, his primary and secondary school years were marked by relentless bullying spanning eight years. The reason? His love for theatre and music set him apart, his passions turning into a target for sadness, insecurity, and fear. As his weight increased, so did the burden of isolation and insecurities. However, amidst the shadows, the stage and melodies always held the key to his solace and strength.

From grappling with the label of "extra size" to conquering obesity triumphantly, Tim's path shifted dramatically in January 2021. Since then, he has shed 45 kilos, an achievement that radiates undeniable pride. Despite his remarkable journey and life achievements, the scars left by bullies remain. Remarkably, Tim has found gratitude for those who once tormented him. Their negativity ignited an unyielding fire within him, propelling Tim to chase his dreams and embrace a healthier lifestyle. As the saying goes, "He who laughs last... laughs best."

Shine bright like a diamond
One of Tim’s insights is that fitness isn't only about physical prowess; it's about embracing the powerful feeling of self-assurance. While not every day may inspire a workout, the afterglow of a fulfilling session always uplifts his spirits and makes him mentally and physically fit. Making sure he can excel in his six-show-a-week career.

His fitness journey and building new healthy habits demanded adaptation and a search for the right path and which needed time and tenacity. Persistence, however, became his guiding star, leading from a place of uncertainty to confidently striding through the club.

To anyone grappling with similar insecurities, Tim wants you to know this: we all bear our vulnerabilities, yet the path to true growth often lies beyond our comfort zones.

Final thoughts
Tim’s top 3 fitness tips for those embarking on their own journey:

1. Prioritise nourishing your body.
2. Nutrition is non-negotiable, an essential cornerstone.
3. Never forget to savour life's simple pleasures!

Mute the noise of fitness trends and resist the urge to compare; celebrate your uniqueness, for each body is a masterpiece. Lastly, while the gym offers an exceptional space, also indulge in a serene nature walk at least once a week.

Tim's aspiration for you is to stay resolutely authentic. Listen to your heart, nurture self-love, radiate kindness, and prioritize well-being. Amid your voyage, recall that you script your own narrative, with each stride contributing to your evolution into a fortified, happier version of yourself."

Meet Sira, a dynamic 22-year-old on an inspiring journey through the world of Sociology. Nestled near Amsterdam, Sira's roots have always been intertwined with this vibrant city. Her unwavering source of motivation is her remarkable mother, a guiding light who instilled in her the belief that the universe is a canvas of possibilities waiting to be painted with strokes of hard work and dedication.

A rising star!
To Sira, fitness is more than just a regimen; it's a transformative symphony that resonates both mentally and physically. Each session holds the power to uplift her spirits, casting a radiant glow of positivity and self-pride. #afterglow

From anxiety to self-confidence
Sira's fitness journey, especially as a model, has not been one without challenges. The shadows of skinny-shaming and self-doubt once clouded her path, casting uncertainty as she stepped into the gym. She felt intimidated like everyone was watching her closely and judging her, and she wanted to get rid of that uncomfortable feeling.

Yet, Sira's spirit and self-love overthrew her gym anxiety. Through open conversations and making friendships with other members, she discovered a universal truth: everyone has their inner battles. Her club felt like a haven where people crafted their own narratives and their insecurities being part of their journeys toward a happy and fit life.

Most of us recognise grappling with similar insecurities, but Sira's experience and determination show that we can all overcome our hurdles. She shares the idea that each person works on getting better for themselves. The gym is like a safe place where you can grow and follow your dreams without comparing yourself to others. Embrace the journey, knowing that everyone has their struggles, just like you.

Sira's joy and transformation go beyond the walls of her club. Fitness gives her clarity of thought, and with each stride, she embraces motivation and self-pride. The metamorphosis she witnesses within her own body fuels her determination, a flame that lights up the path to her goals.

Sira’s tips
Sira has some great advice to share: Firstly, let go of self-doubt. A gym is a place where everyone has their dreams and insecurities. Secondly, don't hesitate to ask for help; the clubs at Basic-Fit are places of support and community. And maybe most importantly: enjoy your journey, on your terms at your own pace – progress happens step by step. So be inspired by Sira's determination and see how she overcame her doubts and found her motivation. As you start your fitness journey, remember her words: You're in charge of your path, and the gym is where you shine. Keep believing in yourself, stand together with others, and keep growing stronger every day!

Sports as an outlet? That's exactly what Jeremy, a 32-year-old content creator from Brussels, uses his training for. After a busy day at work, there is only one thing that gets him out of his mind: a good gym session.

Blow off steam
Yes, of course exercising is also a way to maintain a fit body and make it even stronger. But those muscles are not the most important to Jeremy. It is mainly his mind that benefits so much from a good workout.

Just go!
But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. In fact, there are entire periods when exercising does not feel easy for Jeremy at all. Little time, no desire, less motivation... He now has a fixed recipe for this: stop bumming and start training lighter. By lifting less weight and running shorter distances, he lowers the threshold for going to the gym. His advice for others is: it doesn't matter how fast you go, as long as you gó.

Gymtimidation
But there was more. He once really dreaded training in a gym, he worried about gymtimidation. He preferred to train alone, in his own bubble, without the looks of others. Yet one day he decided to try Basic-Fit and guess what: he immediately felt at home. It actually motivated him, and it turned out that he could continue exercising at his own pace and in his own bubble. All prejudices he had about gyms were sweated away. He felt damn comfortable in the club.

Sports as therapy
Sports were once mainly a way for Jeremy to become stronger and more confident. Once that goal was achieved, he started using his workouts as therapy. A fixed routine that gave him peace and that he also had fun with. The more he trains, the more he challenges himself to become better and stronger. And that always gives a positive boost. Peace in the head and power in the body! That's what he goes for.

With more than 1400 clubs in Europe, there is always a Basic-Fit just around the corner.

In our spacious Basic-Fit clubs you always work out on the best equipment. Everything for a perfect workout!

With the Basic-Fit app there is always a workout at your fingertips. Whether you need a fitness plan or nutrition tips, want to book a personal trainer or take a class from home.

Do you need help while training or could you use some motivation? Our personal trainers are happy to help! This way you achieve your goals while also increasing your knowledge and training pleasure. Win win, right?

Whether you're an early riser or a night owl, in the Netherlands we have over 150 clubs that are open 24/7 so you can enjoy your workout whenever you want.

Work out in a place where you feel at home and where you can be yourself. Where you come back again and again and go for that afterglow every time. Want to come to the club? Nice. Or do you prefer to exercise outside or in your living room? Go for it!