I'm 53 and I'd never set foot in a gym. The first day I just walked on a treadmill for ten minutes and left. Six months later I can adjust my own machines and I actually look forward to going. I never thought I'd be that person.

Margaret, 53

With my EDS, I was terrified of injury. Learning that I could move gently and still get stronger changed everything. I trust my body now in a way I never thought I could. Some days are harder — and that's okay.

Diane, 47

I started because I wanted to be able to carry my own groceries for another twenty years. Now I can. The gym gave me back something I didn't know I'd lost — the feeling that my body is mine and it works for me.

Carol, 58

I cried in the car before my first visit. Then I walked in anyway. Nobody looked at me. Nobody cared. I did ten minutes on a bike and left feeling like I'd climbed a mountain. The fear was so much bigger than the gym.

Pat, 44

I used to think the gym was for other women. Now I have a locker, a routine, and a couple of people who nod hello. It's become a place where I feel capable, not self-conscious. I didn't see that coming.

Linda, 51

My physical therapist said gentle, consistent strength work would help my hypermobility. She was right. I'm not cured — I never will be — but I'm steadier, and steadier is a gift at 49.

Beverly, 49