Erin Fechney

I’ve had a rollercoaster relationship with exercise. I’ve never been the sporty one, found it near impossible to stick to anything long term, and frankly it was hard. I knew I felt great when I was exercising, that's undeniable, but I just couldn’t find anything I could stick to. Then one day I was introduced to 'online' workouts & that's when everything changed. Suddenly I had a form of exercise that was manageable, enjoyable and I was seeing results and feeling great! Four years on, I'm still doing online workouts, just on the other side of the camera! 

This Simple Strength journey has been unexpected and so exciting. I am learning more about the benefits of strength and resistance training every day and I'm so excited to have this platform, so that we can start sharing it with all of you! 

I’m a country girl at heart and enjoy life on our little block of dirt in North Canterbury. My perfect day is a walk in the hills or down the beach with my husband Matt and daughters Demi, Fleur & Tova. Followed by tasty food and a good yarn around an open fire. 

Amelia Reed

When my sons were young I found a book in an op shop, about parenting, and while I was doing fine, I’m always open to words of wisdom.  "Chapter One: Kids Need What Adults Need.  If they get hurt, don’t tell them they’re tough, instead acknowledge and support."  I knew how hurt I would be if my husband told me to 'get tough' so with a rub, hug and words to acknowledge how they were feeling, I met their emotional needs and watched them run along happily of their own accord.  I was amazed something so simple could make all the difference, and so grateful for the discovery. 

Strength training, specifically online, was something else I didn’t know I needed till Erin twisted my arm to try.  The freedom of working out at home without pressure of being 'as good as' other people, at a time that suited me, changed my approach  from all guns blazing then burning out, to a movement rich lifestyle I maintain because it's fun!

Lifes' journey and experiences are so different for everyone and I love hearing peoples stories.  l feel  privileged to be guiding women to stronger futures, for themselves, their families and grandkids.  I am proudly just me, dreaming big with Simple Strength members!  You can expect honesty, encouragement, expertise and given the confidence I have in strength training, your life to change for the better!  

My special people include my husband Tomo, and kids Mace, Jim and Vera, and a scruffy dog Heyday.  We live in sunny North Canterbury with extended family close, community, kids at local schools, and together we enjoy life and it's simple pleasures.

Lesley Askin

Over the years, I have had the privilege, together with my husband Paul, of living in a variety of districts in New Zealand, encompassing city, town and countryside. The delights of North Canterbury have anchored us for over 25 years now, with the major attraction being able to share our lives with the families of our four wonderful children. 

Now that I am in my 70’s I aim to give my body the best shot for seeing me through some more years and enjoying the ride!  I have learnt to be less self-critical and being grateful for my body and what it has carried me through.  One of the great opportunities that come with the changing of life’s seasons is the timely chance to reset our thinking, particularly regarding perspective and direction. We’ve all had those times when challenges seem to come from left field when they are least expected, shaking our confidence and stability. As a registered nurse in general practice, I have seen this happen with people’s health, and was determined to prepare myself, as best I could, to look after my own general health prospects.  One of the main components of ageing well is mobility, which requires strength.

So, as a super-busy mum and grandmother with a large extended family, I was delighted when asked by Erin and Amelia to become one of the trialists for the development of their strength training services for maturing women. After a few weeks, I started to experience the benefits in my own body – and I thought I was fit to start with! I was a convert from then on and joined the team to add a health information blog.

Birdie & Heyday

Simple Strength's much loved studio dogs, Birdie and Heyday! These two know how to make our time together a little better