At Aqualink Nunawading, something extraordinary has been happening every Tuesday and Thursday for the past 17 years. What started as fitness classes has evolved into a thriving community, all thanks to instructor Debbie and her dedicated Fab Strength participants.

A Teacher Who Truly Cares

Debbie has been leading these classes since the beginning, and her impact goes far beyond traditional group fitness instruction. Most participants attend both Tuesday and Thursday sessions, with many having been part of the group for over 10 years. "She (Debbie) makes you feel empowered, you don't get that at other gyms," explains one long-time participant.

After a decade of classes, you might expect things to get repetitive. But Debbie's commitment to continuous learning ensures that's never the case. She's constantly researching new approaches and evolving her practice to keep sessions fresh and engaging.

When asked about maintaining variety after so many years, the group was quick to praise Debbie's creativity. She thinks strategically about incorporating different "toys and tools" that haven't been used recently, ensuring every session brings something new to discover.

Debbie's dedication extends well beyond running the actual classes. She's known for engaging participants with educational activities that complement their fitness journey. In one memorable instance, participants arrived to find a row of food pictures displayed in front of the stage. Each person had to guess the glycemic index of different meals, and by the end of class, they worked together to order them correctly and discuss the results.

These thoughtful touches demonstrate Debbie's holistic approach to health and wellness.

From Class to Community

While Debbie's expertise and care form the foundation, what truly makes this group special are the deep friendships that have developed over the years. Every week after class, the group gathers at the Aqualink Cafe for coffee. The ritual has become so established that the barista knows everyone's order by heart – no words needed.

These connections extend far beyond their weekly catch-ups. The group celebrates birthdays together, shares Christmas gatherings, and some members have even become travel companions, taking holidays together around Australia and beyond.

"We're different but we all get on, there's a sense of belonging," one member reflects. This sentiment captures the essence of what the Fab Strength classes have become – a place where people from all walks of life can come together, support each other, and build lasting friendships.

What began as fitness classes for older adults has transformed into something much more meaningful. Under Debbie's guidance, this group has created a community that enriches lives in ways that extend far beyond physical fitness.