From Fitness Burnout & Gallbladder Surgery to Confidence & Consistency: Michelle’s SHINE Story
- Jess Takimoto
- Aug 19
- 3 min read
"This is the first time I’ve ever been consistent with exercise, and it’s because I actually want to be here. I’m not doing it out of obligation anymore." - Michelle
Watch the full story: https://youtu.be/xelkpJ9DlWg
Summary
Introduction
When Michelle first stumbled across SHINE on Instagram, she was burned out, struggling with her health, and caught in a cycle of starting and quitting different workout routines. As a veterinary assistant who had moved from Ireland to Toronto, she spent years trying to find a fitness space where she didn’t feel like she had to shrink herself to fit in — physically or socially.
Now?
💙 Michelle comes to class 4x/week
💙 Her confidence is stronger than ever
💙 Her liver function has improved
💙 She finally feels excited to work out — and never wants to stop
What Was Michelle's Relationship With Fitness Before SHINE?
Michelle was no stranger to trying. She had joined gyms, tried 5 a.m. classes, and signed up for programs with friends. But none of it stuck.
❌ The workouts felt like punishment
❌ She would try a few weeks, then fall off again
Eventually, Michelle stopped altogether and focused solely on her work. Long hours, high stress, and the emotional toll of being a veterinary assistant led to burnout.
But when she was diagnosed with fatty liver disease and had her gallbladder removed, she knew something had to change. She wanted to take control of her health without falling back into toxic fitness culture.
The Turning Point: Finding SHINE
Scrolling Instagram one night, Michelle saw a SHINE video. It didn’t feel like the other fitness posts she’d seen. There was no “bikini body countdown” or pressure to burn calories.
“It felt like something I could do. It looked… normal. But fun.”
She signed up for her first class, and even though she didn’t know anyone, within minutes of walking into the studio, another member struck up a conversation who is now one of Michelle's closest friends. The welcoming energy — both from the staff and the members — was something she had never felt before.
💙 She didn’t feel judged
💙 She didn’t feel behind
💙 She actually had fun
From Struggling with Fatty Liver Disease and a Healthy Routine to Working out 4 Times per Week
Since joining SHINE, Michelle has seen a dramatic transformation — not just in her body, but in her mindset.
🏥 Her fatty liver diagnosis? Improved.
💪 Her physical strength? Stronger than ever.
🧠 Her consistency? Unmatched.
👯♀️ Her friendships? Deep and genuine.
“Before SHINE, I never thought I’d want to work out. Now I get excited. I book classes in advance. I feel better. I look forward to it.”
Michelle has lost 22 pounds in a healthy way since starting, but more importantly, she’s lost the shame and frustration that followed her for years. She’s eating well, moving often, smiling more, and taking agency over her life and her diagnosis.
Her Confidence Transformation?
Michelle doesn’t have to be reminded to prioritize her health anymore. It’s a natural part of her life — thanks to the community she found at SHINE.
🎉 She celebrates milestones with sweaty selfies
💙 She shows up for herself, even after long shifts
👟 She’s become someone who genuinely loves fitness
“SHINE didn’t just give me workouts. It gave me a lifestyle. A healthy one. A happy one.”
Michelle's Advice for Anyone Afraid to Start?
“Just show up. Don’t wait until you feel ready. Just try. You don’t need to be "fit" to start. That’s the whole point. Start where you are.”
Conclusion: Michelle's SHINE Story Continues
Michelle’s transformation isn’t just about physical changes or medical improvements — it’s about how she feels.
💙 Stronger
💙 More energized
💙 More confident
💙 More herself
She’s living proof that you don’t have to be “into fitness” to fall in love with it — and that you can rewrite your health story at any time.
TAKE ACTION
Feeling inspired by Michelle's story? Listen to the full episode of SHINE Stories on Spotify or Apple now! If you’re ready to start your own journey and experience the power of community, book a free intro session today and let’s chat about how SHINE can help you transform your relationship with fitness.
Ready to start your transformation? Click here to book your free intro session today!
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