News | 20 November 2024
Cardiff Met's Met Active gyms, located on both Llandaff and Cyncoed campuses, are open to the wider Cardiff community, as well as to university staff and students. Through a partnership with the CSSHS Exercise Hub, one of our community members, Adrian Ng, has seen significant health benefits. After suffering a heart attack, Adrian was referred to the Cardiac Rehab Centre at Met Active. Upon completing his rehabilitation programme, he transitioned into regular gym sessions and has since become a dedicated member.
In an interview, Adrian shared how this collaborative support has transformed his life, not only improving his physical health but inspiring his family—his wife and son have also joined him on his wellness journey. Adrian's heartfelt words highlight the invaluable role the Met Active team has played in his recovery and journey to a healthier life.
1.
How has the Met Active team helped you?
My heart attack in 2022 was a life-changing experience. After beginning my recovery at the University Hospital of Wales, I transferred to the Cardiff Met Rehab Programme, where I met my physiotherapist, who played an essential role in jump-starting my journey to health at the Met Active Gym. Being part of this rehab group introduced me to others in similar situations, with all of us motivated to improve our health. Through this programme, I've connected with people who have helped me become healthier, and the team at Met Active has been instrumental in my recovery. Their professionalism and kindness give me peace of mind, knowing I'm in safe hands and supported every step of the way.
The Met Active staff have been incredible, always friendly and knowledgeable. As a regular gym member, I've benefited from their expertise, which has allowed me to train effectively and safely. They constantly share advice on how to train smarter and avoid injuries, correct my form when lifting, provide nutritional guidance, and are always there to encourage and motivate me when I need it most. Their support and willingness to help with any questions have been invaluable.
Through meeting Connor Warman, a Met Active team member, my family and I joined his Conpove Run Club. With Connor's guidance, my running stamina has improved, and he's always ready to share training tips.
I recently started personal training sessions with Ben Thomas, whose professionalism and personalised programs have been key to achieving my fitness goals. I genuinely believe this level of community and support is rare to find in a typical commercial gym. Many staff members have become friends who have supported me through every stage, from open-heart surgery recovery to building strength and fitness. The entire Met Active team has been phenomenal in helping me reach a healthier, stronger place.
2.
When and why did you start using our class?
I joined Met Active Gym in February 2023. I started by being introduced to classes in February 2024. The classes I am currently participating in are Metrox, spin class, boot camp and Personal Training sessions. They have been designed in a professional way to suit different age groups and people.
I started attending Met Active Gym because in February 2023, Cardiff Met had just started to run a rehabilitation programme, and I got transferred from UHW rehab to the rehabilitation programme at Cardiff Met. I went twice a week to exercise with the supervision and guidance of Brian Begg (Physio). After attending a few of these rehab sessions, I decided to purchase a membership, and I started to use the gym more frequently. This then led me to start training at Met Active Gym on a regular basis.
3.
How has it helped you?
Attending these classes and sessions has made a tremendous difference in my health and overall fitness. They opened my eyes to how much my diet, health, and fitness levels needed improvement, and they even helped me quit smoking for good.
By regularly taking part in these sessions, I've adopted a healthier diet, improved my fitness, strength, and conditioning, and developed a stronger, more resilient mindset that keeps me training consistently. Beyond physical benefits, these classes have also expanded my social network, allowing me to meet and connect with new people along the way.
4.
What achievements have you accomplished since joining Met Active?
In 2024, I completed the Cardiff 10km and the Met Active Colour Run. I never expected to compete in a 10km run and feel proud that I was able to.
My next goal is to race in the Cardiff Half Marathon and Tough Mudder in 2025.
5.
Do you have any fitness goals for the future?
Increase Strength – Aim to lift heavier weights or perform more repetitions in strength training. To transform into a better body shape.
Improve Cardiovascular Health – Set a goal to run a certain distance, and improve running time.
Achieve a Healthy Weight -Set a target weight and body composition goal. Create a plan to achieve it with balanced nutrition and regular exercise.
Enhance Mental Well-Being - Fitness as a tool to reduce stress and improve mental health through activities and exercises.
Develop a Consistent Routine: Commit to a regular workout schedule, such as exercising a certain number of days per week. Maintain a high fitness level.
6.
How often do you train a week now?
I try to train 5 to 6 days a week with 1 or two days rest in between. Training includes a park run with Conprove Run Club, Metrox, Bootcamp class, weights, indoor cycling, rehab and PT sessions. All of these are with Met Active, along with countless other classes I've yet to take part in.
7.
Do you use any other services we offer at Cardiff Metropolitan University?
Recently I have used the Cardiff Met injury clinic for my recurring shoulder injury. In the near future I would like to use other facilities on site such as the swimming pool on Cyncoed Campus.
