A fitness instructor has won a regional award for her positive impact in the community.
Julia Potter, from J Potter Community Fitness, who runs community fitness classes across Worcester and Droitwich, was named Best Regional Instructor – West Midlands at the Heart & Soul Awards for the second year in a row.
The awards celebrate fitness professionals from across the UK who make an exceptional difference to the lives of the people they support.
Ms Potter said: “I may have collected the trophy, but this award belongs to every single person who walks through the doors of my classes.
“So many people arrive feeling anxious, convinced they’re too unfit or worried they’ll get it wrong.
“Then, before long, they’re the ones welcoming new people through the door.
“People often think I teach fitness. Really, I build a community.
“The fitness is simply what brings us together.”
A former primary school teacher, she is recognised for creating a supportive, inclusive environment that helps people improve not just their fitness but also their confidence, friendships and overall wellbeing.
Julia hopes the recognition will encourage anyone who has ever felt intimidated by exercise to realise there is a place for them.
Ms Potter said: “You don’t have to be fit before you come.
“You don’t have to have the right clothes or know what you’re doing.
“You just have to walk through the door, and we’ll do the rest together.”
Her classes welcome adults of all ages and abilities in what she describes as a completely judgement-free space.
She said: “Winning this award for a second year is incredibly special, but what makes me proudest is seeing the friendships, confidence and support that have grown within our community.
“That’s the real achievement.”
