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Fatima’s Journey: Rebuilding Strength and Confidence Against a Rare Autoimmune Disorder
Living with undifferentiated connective tissue disorder, a rare autoimmune condition affecting just 2 in 50,000 people, Fatima experienced severe muscle tension, extreme fatigue, and daily challenges most can’t imagine. Simple tasks felt overwhelming, and there was no clear treatment, just the need to keep going.
First Step: Assessment and Personalized Programming
When Fatima joined UFIT, she had lost around 10kg of muscle mass. Colin, part of the Physiotherapy team, began with a detailed strength assessment using the VALD Dynamo to measure:
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Shoulder and grip strength
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Hip flexors and leg strength
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Calf strength
This data allowed us to create a tailored Personal Training program designed specifically for her capabilities and goals.
Early Progress: Strength Gains and Boosted Confidence
After three months of consistent training, the improvements were significant:
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Right calf raises: 3 ➝ 33 reps
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Left calf raises: 7 ➝ 36 reps
Beyond numbers, Fatima reported feeling less fatigued and more confident in her daily activities.
Advancing with Personal Training
Fatima progressed to one‑on‑one sessions with David, where the focus shifted to:
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Muscle preservation
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Core and hip stability
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Lower‑limb strength
Her hard work paid off, she now deadlifts more than half her body weight and has regained 2kg of muscle despite her condition.
“The mind is the most powerful tool you have… every day is an opportunity to get better.”
Tackling Nutrition Challenges
Fatima faced severe food intolerances, unable to tolerate common protein sources like dairy and eggs. Through careful trial and error, Ellie, expanded her safe food options using alternatives such as collagen broths, helping her:- Increase protein intake safely
- Improve strength gains
- Expand dietary variety
Daily Life But Real, Meaningful Changes
Today, Fatima notices improvements that matter most:
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Climbing stairs with ease
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Increased strength in everyday movements
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More energy and mobility
“Rather than being horizontal most of the time, I’m now vertical most of the time. I’m very grateful for that.”
What Fatima’s Story Teaches Us
Fatima’s journey shows that with personalized training, tailored nutrition, and supportive coaching, even rare and debilitating conditions can be managed. Her progress stands as a powerful reminder that strength, confidence, and quality of life can be rebuilt, one step at a time.
