David Rowe joint owner of RESHAPE FITNESS, CLACTON. 
This is my story. 

“From 30 Days to Live to a Lifetime of Helping Others:

 David Rowe’s Fitness Journey” In 2008.
 my life changed forever. I was diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm and told I had only 30 days to live. At the time, I was a husband, a father, and like so many others, someone who thought I was too busy to prioritize my health.  Those words, “30 days,” shattered me. But they also ignited something inside me—a determination to fight for my life. 

After a 16-hour life-saving operation, a new carbon valve in my heart, and a ventricular pacemaker, I was given a second chance. Recovering from that surgery wasn’t just physical—it was emotional. I knew what it felt like to be scared, to feel weak, and to wonder if I’d ever be “me” again. That experience didn’t just save my life; it gave me my purpose.

 Now, at 58 (not a bodybuilder and certainly no six-pack in sight!), I’m on a mission to help people just like me—busy mums, dads, grandparents, and anyone 30+ who feels like traditional gyms aren’t for them. Maybe you’ve thought, “I’m too old,” or “I’ll never fit in,” or “It’s too late for me.” Trust me, I know those thoughts because I’ve had them too. But here’s what I’ve learned: fitness isn’t about having a perfect body. It’s about living longer, feeling stronger, and being able to enjoy your life.

 whether that’s chasing after your grandkids or enjoying a Saturday night curry and beer with friends (which, by the way, I still love). When I started Reshape Fitness, it wasn’t to create another intimidating gym. It was to build a community where real people—people who’ve felt too anxious, too unfit, or too “out of place” to even step foot in a gym—could come and feel like they belong. Everything we do is tailored to you, your body, and your abilities. There’s no judgment, no egos, no mirrors—just support, encouragement, and results. 

My journey from being given 30 days to live to nearly 18 years in the fitness industry has taught me this: you’re never too old, too unfit, or too far gone to start making changes. If I can go from fearing for my life to helping others transform theirs, I promise you can do it too. So, if you’ve been putting off your health or wondering if it’s even possible for you, I’m here to tell you it is. Your health isn’t just about how you look—it’s about living the life you deserve, for yourself and the people you love. Let’s do this together. If I can, you can.