Member Story - Making Waves for Charity at Colets

Rob Morrison

Rob Morrison’s journey at Colets Health and Fitness began nearly a year ago, and since then, he’s made quite the splash - both in the pool and in the community.

Motivated by a newfound love for swimming and a desire to contribute to meaningful causes, Rob recently took on the MySwimathon 30.9km Challenge, raising funds for Cancer Research and Marie Curie.

What motivated you to take on this particular challenge?

I was inspired to take on the MySwimathon 30.9km Challenge because of my new love for swimming and to raise funds for Cancer Research and Marie Curie. These charities resonate deeply with many people, so I wanted to contribute in a meaningful way.

Also, when I signed up in October, I won a training session with Swimathon Ambassador, Duncan Goodhew. I was by far the worst swimmer in the pool, so thought I should get training!

How have you found the challenge so far?

The challenge has been incredible; demanding but rewarding. I dedicated many hours to training beforehand to ensure I could reach the 30.9km mark, which I managed to complete in just under 13 hours in the pool. 

Have you completed the Swimathon before or is this a new challenge?

This is totally new. I have never taken part in any sort of swimming challenge before and only got back in the pool in April 2023 when I joined Colets. I could swim (badly) but hadn’t done any proper swimming for about 20 years.

When I became a member of Colets that all changed, and I found that the pool was something I wanted to use as part of my new desire to get fit and lose weight.

Over the last year I have been in a few challenges and completed the 100 push-ups a day for CRUK in November, and have taken part in company events for both Shout! & MANUP?, both mental health charities.

I have also been involved in organising many large-scale fundraising events as part of my work within live events and had the fortune to be involved in some amazing high-profile projects, which is always fun.

How does it feel to combine your fitness goals with a charitable cause?

It’s the motivation I need! I really enjoy having a target and if reaching that goal can also help raise awareness for a great cause or even a few pounds then that is amazing!

You, your wife and your daughter joined the club nearly a year ago to the day. How has your experience been during this time?

We have loved being members over the last year and both Sam and Olivia are users of the gym and take part in classes.

We have also been to a few of the social events including the quiz nights and I am a regular at Comedy at Colets which is amazing.

Have any of the instructors / trainers supported you in preparing or taking on this fitness challenge?

All of the staff at Colets are great and often ask how things are going.

Dan provided some amazing advice and guidance when I first joined which allowed me to build up some strength. I have also met some brilliant other members, who have helped with my swimming and have been very gracious in sharing tips and advice.

“Joining the club has significantly improved my overall health”

In what ways has being part of Colets Health and Fitness impacted your overall health and wellness journey?

Joining the club has significantly improved my overall health, but it required commitment.

The high-quality facilities, diverse sessions, and supportive trainers have been crucial in helping me build strength, improve endurance, and balance my fitness routine. It’s also a very friendly and social place where I’ve made lasting friendships.

Can you share a bit about your journey with health and fitness over the years? Have you always been passionate about swimming and staying active, or is this a new interest for you?

I've always been interested in sports and fitness, but swimming has become a passion only recently. Struggling with my weight and fitness for most of my adult life made it challenging to maintain a consistent routine.

This past year, through regular swimming and gym sessions, I’ve truly discovered how enjoyable fitness can be!

Have you faced any obstacles or challenges on your path to better health and fitness?

Absolutely. Maintaining consistency and poor motivation has been one of my biggest challenges, especially balancing any training with my work and personal life but you must stick at it!

Do you see yourself taking on any other fitness challenges this year?

Definitely! Although I’m not much of a runner, I'm looking to improve in this area -perhaps a triathlon could be next... The Swimathon has really opened my eyes to the rewards of these challenges, and I’m eager to take on more - what about a Colets member challenge!

There’s still time to donate to Rob’s Swimathon JustGiving page here.