A new gym that offers people with disabilities the same opportunities to train as people who are able-bodied, officially opened in Ballybrit at the weekend. Bernie Fleming Fitness is owned by a woman who has worked in the area of intellectual disability and mental health for the past two decades, as well as being a fitness coach for 15 years – and she’s equally passionate about both.

Claddagh woman Bernie is a Care Support Worker in the Brothers of Charity-run John Paul Centre in Ballybane, where her job involves making users “feel respected and valued”, as well as mapping their progress to ensure they receive the best support possible.

As a fitness coach, she specialises in areas from kettlebell sports and mobility training, to helping people manage scoliosis via strength and mobility, and working as a personal trainer.

At Saturday’s launch, Bernie spoke of how her late mother, Tish Fleming, had been her life-long role model. Tish, who died in December 2021, was involved in the charity Aids Help West following its establishment in the late 1980s, and she also volunteered with the Samaritans.

“At a young age, I always wanted to be just like my mum,” Bernie said. “I loved the way she looked after so many people and helped so many, and never wanted anything in return. “She was an inspiration to us all and to all who crossed her path. Now I understand what mum meant when she would say, ‘it’s not work, it’s rewarding’. This is how I feel every day.”

Those at the opening included colleagues from the John Paul Centre and those who attend her fitness classes in Knockdoe and Ballybrit.

Among them was Geraldine Walsh, who knows Bernie better than most.  The fitness coach was her son’s support worker in the John Paul Centre for four years, and, for the past two years, since Bernie began offering classes in Knockdoe, Geraldine has been a regular.

Geraldine explained how she had suffered with hip and back pain for 20 years and had tried everything, including acupuncture, physio and medicine. After taking up the classes, she has now been pain-free for more than a year. Geraldine praised care, warmth and humour that Bernie brought to training.

Marie Higgins of the John Paul Centre described how Bernie’s specialist fitness training and her work in the disability healthcare sector, gave her “the unique experience to deliver specific programmes for people with disabilities”.

Describing the new gym as somewhere people of all abilities could “unlock their mobility, confidence and inner strength”, Bernie stressed the importance of her two careers.

“They are not just jobs. They are lifelines that have given me purpose and direction from past challenges. Through these experiences, I can help others grow, overcome challenges and reach their potential.”

She emphasised that the facility was for everybody, from “those taking their first steps to fitness as well as seasoned athletes.

“We especially welcome people with disabilities. The gym is equipped with accessible and adaptive equipment to ensure everyone can participate in our programmes. We offer specialised classes and personalised training plans to accommodate a wide range of needs and abilities.”

Bernie Fleming Fitness is located at Unit 11, Ballybrit, on the Old Monivea Road. More information from 085 1095783 or @berniefleming fitness.

Pictured: Paddy and Seanie Murphy from Claregalway at the official opening of Bernie Fleming Fitness new Fitness Centre at Unit 11, Ballybrit Upper Industrial Estate, Monivea Road last Saturday.