Why wait to do something you have always wanted to do?
In this episode of Inspiring Movement, host James Hilton introduces a new kind of conversation for the podcast: the first in a series of real-life stories featuring members of Jim’s Gym.
James is joined by Jayne, who shares the experiences, interests and adventures that have shaped her life, as well as the role movement now plays in helping her continue doing the things she enjoys.
Now retired and living in Wales, Jayne has no intention of slowing down. Her life includes volunteering, travelling, roller skating, motorcycling and planning future adventures in her campervan. She talks to James about returning to activities she enjoyed when she was younger, trying new experiences and refusing to assume that age should prevent her from doing something she wants to do.
A keen motorbike rider, Jayne explains how strength, mobility and flexibility all contribute to her ability to continue riding. Activities within her Jim’s Gym classes—including exercises involving hurdles—have helped her practise movements that translate into everyday life, such as getting on and off her bike.
The conversation also explores Jayne’s journey into online exercise. James and Jayne first trained together through an earlier online platform before she became part of the Jim’s Gym community. She reflects on what made online classes work for her and why enjoyment, humour and connection can be just as important as the exercises themselves.
James explains that most people already understand that exercise is good for their physical and mental health. The real challenge is finding a form of movement that people genuinely want to keep doing. By making sessions fun, welcoming and light-hearted, exercise can become something to look forward to rather than another obligation.
They also discuss the importance of inclusive fitness. Not everyone feels comfortable attending a traditional gym, exercising on the floor or taking part in fast-paced classes. Jim’s Gym sessions are designed so that exercises can be adapted, allowing more people to join in at a level that works for them.
Jayne has embraced that adaptable approach. She regularly uses her own barbell—affectionately known as “Betty”—during classes and has continued to increase the weights she uses. James and Jayne discuss why lifting weights can feel empowering, particularly for women who may have grown up being told that something was too heavy or that somebody else should carry it for them.
For Jayne, exercise is not simply about completing a workout. It supports the wider life she wants to lead. It helps her stay strong enough to travel, ride her motorbike, enjoy her hobbies and remain active and independent.
The episode ends with a quick-fire round covering Jayne’s favourite classes, preferred time of day to exercise, favourite equipment, workout location and whether she continues exercising while travelling in the campervan.
When James asks Jayne to offer one piece of actionable advice to listeners, her answer captures the spirit of the entire conversation:
Why wait?
Whether you are considering starting exercise, returning to an old hobby, travelling somewhere new or attempting something you have always wanted to try, Jayne’s story is a reminder that it is never too late to begin.
Inspiring Movement is hosted by James Hilton and explores the people, experiences and ideas that help us move more, live well and keep doing the things that matter to us.
About Jim's Gym
Jim's Gym is an online fitness and wellbeing membership for adults aged 55 and over. With 15+ live classes every week via Zoom, 800+ on-demand workout videos, and a warm, welcoming community, it's everything a gym should be without any of the things that put people off.
Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Tai Chi, Strength, Balance and more, all led by specialist instructors, all from home.
Monthly membership from just £12.99. No joining fees. No contracts. Cancel anytime. 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
👉 Join Jim's Gym: www.jimsgym.fitness
👉 Join the free Facebook community: Friends of Jim's Gym
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Jim's Gym Podcast: Inspiring Movement is produced by Jim's Gym and hosted by James Hilton.
34 min