2020 has been a particularly challenging and lonely time for the older generation, but best friends Rosemary Randall and Marion Williams have been embracing their active lifestyles.
Rosemary was a late comer to exercise and began running at the age of 40, inspired by her two sons who had joined a local running club. Marion has always been active, fitting in exercise within her working days for most of her life and being a long-term member of gyms and leisure facilities.
The pair met in 2019 after Marion unfortunately broke her ankle while walking her dog. Rosemary’s partner lives a few doors down from Marion and with Marion living in a first floor flat, the pair looked after her as she recovered.
“I relied on Rosemary and her partner during my recovery,” said Marion. “Having to use a Zimmer frame meant I couldn’t even carry a coffee to another room with me. This is how I got to know Rosemary and our friendship started from there.”
With both being naturally active people, they joined a ladies’ only gym following Marion’s recovery and started going together.
However, unfortunately the gym was unable to reopen following the first national lockdown. With Marion living alone, she entered a support bubble with Rosemary and the pair went on the lookout for a new gym.
After doing their research, they both decided on Anytime Fitness Welwyn Garden City due to its convenient location, free parking and broad equipment offering. Despite being keen to continue exercising, Rosemary had reservations due to her age and consulted with her doctor.