A local fitness entrepreneur returned to the classroom to inspire the next generation of fitness professionals at Darlington College.
Victoria McFaull, owner of VIXI Fitness based in Business Central, Darlington has returned to the classroom, teaching students on the Level 3 Sports Massage course.
Victoria retrained in sport and fitness as an adult learner and changed her career becoming a personal trainer.
“I have always loved fitness,” said Victoria. “I was at a gym in Billingham, and it was suggested I became a fitness instructor and subsequently a personal trainer.
“At the start I worked for a major fitness chain as a personal trainer, but I decided to take the leap and setup my own personal training business.
“I took a year to do my qualifications. I was doing my training whilst working full-time and being a single mother with two children, I honestly do not know how I did it. Having to do an exam after a 12-hour nightshift was hard work.”
Victoria works with a range of people with differing health conditions from respiratory disease to Parkinsons.
Victoria said: “Business Central is like a home, with a family. The staff are so supportive, and the facilities are really good. The location is great, especially with it being just along the road from the College.
“Knowing that I am helping people is the best thing. When my Breathe Easy Patients come in and they have been for respiratory assessment, to find out they have not deteriorated because of the work we have done, and they have taken my advice it is the best feeling.”
Victoria has developed a portfolio of massage qualifications from sports massage, trigger point massage, lymphatic massage and massage during pregnancy.
“Bringing current industry experience directly into the classroom is incredibly valuable for our learners,” said Claire Hankey, Head of Marketing and Engagement at Darlington College. “Victoria is a positive role model who can inspire both young people and adults and show them what a successful career in the sector can look like.”
Business Central is owned by Darlington Borough Council, which is managed by the North East BIC.
“We love having Victoria as part of our Darlington Workspace family,” said Nicole Johnstone, Centre Manager at Darlington Workspace. “We are delighted to support her latest journey with Darlington College and VIXI Fitness.
“She shows genuine care and respect to every one of her clients, and it is so rewarding to witness the difference she makes to their lives when we can physically see the positive impact she has had as they leave her sessions.
“We are incredibly proud to provide a welcoming, accessible environment for her clients, and to support a business that makes such a meaningful contribution to our local community. The benefit of the expertise that she brings to the college students will be a fantastic addition to their existing high-quality offering.”
Victoria said “We see a range of students at the night classes. Some are continuing their journey in education and some are returning after a break from learning. I really enjoy support the students and pass on my experience and giving back.
“The college have created a nice environment. The staff are supportive both to myself personally and also the students.”
More information can be found at www.vixiwellbeing.co.uk, www.darlington.ac.uk and www.darlingtonworkspace.co.uk