AS A young and average-sized woman, I was not sure what to expect when I was asked to try Elite Health and Fitness’ 21 day challenge.

The challenge by the personal training gym in Chesterton Lane, Cirencester aims to kick-start people into a healthier and fitter lifestyle.

It consists of a diet that focuses on lean protein and limited carbohydrates (cutting out carbs like rice, pasta, potatoes and cereals). The aim of the diet is to lose fat, reduce bloating and boost energy.

The challenge also consists of three semi-private training sessions a week.

When I asked Christian, a trainer at Elite, what clients usually come to the gym for, the answer was weight loss.

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But instead of focusing on pure cardio training for weight loss, the gym focuses on weight training that tests your endurance with exercises like squats, chest presses, kettlebell swings, boxing, pull-ups and press-ups.

According to Christian, weight training is more effective for weight loss as it raises metabolism for longer than cardio training. In effect, Elite’s sessions are not just designed for weight loss but also strength building, endurance building and metabolism boosting.

As a pole dancer and a strength and fitness lover, I was relieved to hear this as I had no intention of losing weight. Going to the gym, for me, was about building strength and improving my performance in other sports.

I was elated to know that by the end of the challenge, I had gained 7.3kg of muscle mass with little to no weight loss.

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My experience at Elite has been fulfilling and varied. For much of the time, I felt motivated and challenged. The 21 days have certainly been a kickstarter for me as I intend to continue my training with a larger focus on strength building.

I have no doubt that Elite’s training regime will continue to work wonders for those who want to lose weight and get fit. The programme helps people by increasing their energy levels, and reducing fat and bloating.

Previous clients have lost up to 6.3kg and dropped two to four per cent of body fat in three weeks.

For 21 days of semi-personal training, it costs just £165 if you fancy giving yourself a kickstart too. Thereafter, it will be £240 for four weeks with two sessions a week.

The gym offers one-to-one training, semi-personal training (groups of up to four people), and a range of classes.