Fitness journey leads to substantial weight loss and new outlook

At the start of 2025, Hana Linehan, 28, from Netherton, was nearly 17 stone and at rock bottom with her confidence, weight and overall wellbeing, but she has undergone a remarkable transformation and now weighs in at just 11 and a half stone – after regular spin and gym classes at Portway Lifestyle Centre in Oldbury. 

She had previously tried every diet, felt trapped in her own body, and avoided the scales for a long time, but with the encouragement of her partner Luke (already a member) took a bold leap into the unknown and joined Portway - one of eight facilities run and maintained by Sandwell Leisure Trust (SLT) for Sandwell Council - a decision Hana now calls the best she’s ever made. 

Portway is renowned for being a safe and inclusive environment, with knowledgeable and welcoming staff, and Hana quickly found her stride in regular spin classes, along with a new love for weight training. Her mental health has improved dramatically, she feels more self-assured and no longer compares herself to others, plus Hana now takes photos of herself willingly - without filters or edits - because she loves the person she’s become. 

A big part of Hana’s success has been working with Portway’s Group Fitness & Gym Instructor, Diane Hillier, from Halesowen as her personal trainer. As Hana herself puts it: “Di’s energy and support have made a huge difference to my workouts and progress. Whether a tough class or session, or a check-in on my progress, Di always has a positive way of lifting me up and pushing me forward. 

“She consistently make me feel motivated within my classes and I feel so much more confident going to the gym on my own, as I know how to train certain areas of my body. Di always reminds me to be proud of how far I've come too, even when I have down days, and I owe her a lot and wouldn’t have achieved so much without her help and guidance, as she even gave me tips on what best to eat and how to manage calorific intake.” 

Di adds: “Hana is so fun to work with and from day one, despite all her initial fears and misgivings, has given both spin and the gym her absolute best. She has grown into a completely different person now, so full of life and positivity, and it’s very gratifying that I have played my part in her incredible transformation. 

“Her more recent success in our AI-powered EGYM, which provides the ultimate in tech-enabled, flexible and personalised workout experiences, has been both insane and target smashing and Hana really is a true inspiration to us all.”

Hana’s top five tips for anyone starting out are set meaningful goals, because she’s been able to wear beautiful dresses at two weddings this year and can now fit into her sister’s lovely clothes as well. Also, don’t fear the gym, as everyone starts somewhere and people won’t judge as you’re trying to make a difference and improve yourself. 

Take progress photos as seeing the difference each month is the best feeling and even on bad days you’re able to look back and remind yourself how far you've come, plus rest is just as important as training as we’re all human and everyone is allowed time off or a cheat day. 

Last, but not least, have fun and make it enjoyable because it’s supposed to be exciting and fulfilling, so allow yourself to take in each moment and just be the best person you can be. 

Hana concludes: “This amazing roller coaster I have been on since the beginning of the year has taught me so much – and along with Luke my family (Mum, Sister, Brother-in-Law, Dad, Nan and Grandad) have been super supportive too. Life can be difficult from time to time, but if you set your mind to something and see each day that you're getting closer and closer to your goal, it's honestly the best feeling in the world. 

“Plus, if I can do it, then really anyone can. You just need to say: enough is enough, I’m going to start this journey and see it through - and it will be the greatest decision you've ever made too.”