A new beginning?

Today I did a tour of a (relatively) new gym in the neighbourhood: Dupont Fitness.

I had heard of them through their running club, who I did a couple of Saturday morning 5k runs with this summer. Being a 10-minute walk from home is key to me doing anything (especially now) so that was what initially drew me to look into them. Looking at their website, they seem to have a lot of natural light which is another big plus for me. Years ago I joined Planet Fitness (previously the nearest gym I think) but just the thought of going to a place decorated in purple and yellow with fluorescent lighting and a million TV screens and thumpy “high energy” music felt impossible. Dupont Fitness offers a free day pass if you do a tour,  and a reduced-fee membership if you only go in off-hours (during daylight hours basically, which is the only time I leave the house these days anyway), so I thought I would check it out.

Dupont Fitness: so pretty!

It’s really nice! I talked to Matt (the owner) about my specific needs and concerns. He showed me the equipment I might find most useful—not just a stationary bike, but a recumbent stationary bike—and told me about the other machines, the gym’s philosophy (chill vibe! no influencers! hanging plants!), the beautiful mural of Dovercourt Park, their music selection (more jazz and soul instead of EDM). 

I think this might work for me!

I did have a moment this afternoon where I worried, what will I wear? All my workout tops are pullovers. I can’t lift my arm enough for that; everything needs to be something I can step into or at least do up the front. I was actually googling “zip-front workout tops” when it hit me—cycling jersey. What I need is a cycling jersey. I have a dozen cycling jerseys leftover from the Friends for Life Bike Rally this summer (as an aside, it’s giving Tuesday, please sponsor me in the 2026 F4LBR!). I do not need to reinvent this particular wheel.

Tomorrow morning is fracture clinic; afternoon is GP to do some bloodwork. Friday is physiotherapy. 

And maybe Saturday is gym? I wonder if it will be too busy…