A popular fitness instructor from Eastry is helping people gain confidence and lose weight.

Karyn Matcham, 42, of Orchard Road, qualified as a fitness instructor after putting on weight during her first pregnancy in 1999.

She said reaching sizes 16 to 18 spurred her on to take part in a fitness session in Sandwich, which was when she decided to pursue a healthier lifestyle.

Little did she know that her life would one day revolve around fitness classes.

She said: “I went down to a size 14 and I was inspired to help others. I have seen a lot of people change shape.

“I have had about seven instructors coming to the classes and they have done exactly the same as me.”

Karyn, now a size eight, has 15 certificates. She was one of the district’s first instructors to teach Zumba, which is a cardiovascular workout based around latin dance movements.

She said: “I became a freelance instructor five years ago and I haven’t looked back. I’m a single parent with two boys. It’s been a struggle at times running my own business, but I wouldn’t change it.”

The weekly sessions are attended by up to 70 people, aged between 14 and 80 and are designed for all abilities.

This month she has introduced fitness pilates to her classes. This is made up of controlled movements that can improve core strength and overall stamina.

Zumba classes are held at the Whitfield Club, Napchester Road, at 9.30am on Tuesdays and Fridays and fitness pilates on Wednesdays at 9.30am and on Thursdays at 7pm.

St Edmund’s Catholic School in Barton Road, Dover, also holds Zumba on Tuesdays at 6.30pm, and Wednesdays at 7pm. They are also on Saturdays at 9.30am followed by fitness pilates at 10.30am.

The first class is free and others are £5 a time.