Oceana is 26 and moved to a new area of London in 2024. After around ten years away from the gym, she decided it was finally time to get back into training — but wanted somewhere that felt welcoming, social, and not intimidating.
She joined Engine Room in May 2024 and hasn’t looked back since.
The Challenge
Like many people returning to the gym after a long break, Oceana felt unsure.
She hadn’t trained properly in years, didn’t want to feel judged, and wanted a gym where she could ease back into things without feeling out of place.
Finding the right environment mattered just as much as the workouts themselves.
Why She Nearly Didn’t Start
Walking into a gym after ten years away can feel daunting.
Oceana wanted somewhere friendly, modern, and social — not a place where she’d feel lost or uncomfortable.
She also wanted trainers who actually remembered her, checked in, and made training feel personal rather than transactional.
The Turning Point
From the start, Engine Room felt different.
The trainers were friendly, approachable, and took the time to get to know her. There was a genuine balance between professionalism and friendship — plus small training groups where everyone supported each other.
Over time, Oceana didn’t just build strength — she built connections too, meeting people she now hangs out with outside the gym.
The Results
A year and a half in, the progress speaks for itself:
Lifting heavier and feeling noticeably stronger
Increased confidence in and out of the gym
Able to do pull-ups (even if she still hates them!)
Strength gains she’s proud of — including lifting her 250lb friend
Training programmes adjusted around injuries or sore days
Feeling supported, never judged, and always encouraged
Here’s what Oceana had to say:
“Now I can lift heavier and I feel more confident.
I still hate pull-ups — but I can do them now.
It’s nice knowing there are people supporting you and that you don’t feel judged.”
What This Means for You
If you’re nervous about starting the gym again — or starting for the first time — you’re not alone.
At Engine Room, training is:
- Personal
- Supportive
- Community-driven
- Adapted to how you feel on the day
Whether it’s adjusting a session for a sore back or celebrating progress together, you’re never just another number.