“ For me, fitness is not just about health—it’s about resilience, joy, and breaking barriers.” Fari
I grew up in a culture where female exercise was almost forbidden. There were no sports facilities for women—no PE lessons, no swimming pools, and certainly no encouragement to be active. But that didn’t stop my passion for exercise from flourishing.
In the 1980s, Jane Fonda’s aerobics videos became popular, and people would either buy or rent the tapes. My dad, who knew the owner of a video rental shop, often borrowed them for us for free. I watched and exercised with those tapes so often that I memorized every single routine. When the time came to return the tape, we recorded the audio onto a stereo so we could continue our workouts.
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Every day, after my brother left the house, my sisters and I would lock ourselves in a room, play the audio tape, and follow along. It was our secret way of embracing something that made us feel strong, happy, and free.
In 2001, I became pregnant—a joyful moment that turned into tragedy when I lost my baby at 32 weeks. Instead of receiving support, I was blamed by those around me, who insisted that my exercising and failure to rest had caused my loss. Their words devastated me. I spiraled into depression, losing my strength, motivation, and faith in myself. I began questioning everything: Was it true? Was exercise my enemy?
Yet, even in my darkest moments, something within me refused to give up. Gradually, I found myself reaching for my workout gear again. Movement became my lifeline, pulling me out of despair and helping me reclaim my sense of self. During this time, I made a pivotal decision: to migrate to a place where exercise and physical activity were accepted, and where I wouldn’t be judged for valuing my health.
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​This decision marked the beginning of a transformative journey, one that eventually led me to become an advocate for fitness and well-being—not just for myself, but for others facing barriers to living an active, healthy life.
In 2002, I moved to the UK and entered a completely new world of fitness. For the first time, I had access to gyms, swimming pools, fitness classes, and outdoor spaces where women could freely exercise. It felt like endless possibilities had opened up. I joined fitness classes, tried new sports, and absorbed as much knowledge as I could about health and exercise. I seized every opportunity to learn and grow.
In 2012, I achieved a significant milestone: completing my fitness training course. Little did I know that the following year would bring the greatest storm of my life.
In 2013, tragedy struck when my ex-partner abducted our two children and took them to Iran—a country where patriarchal laws consider children the father’s property and do not adhere to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1999). My fight to bring my children home was a harrowing journey requiring immense courage and resourcefulness, culminating in a daring effort to smuggle them back to the UK.
My story mirrored the book Not Without My Daughter, a painful and heart-wrenching ordeal that left me physically and emotionally shattered, and severely depressed.
Upon returning to the UK, I was in pieces. Shock, emotional exhaustion, and depression consumed me. My body was weak, and my spirit unsteady. Diagnosed with severe depression, I was prescribed antidepressants and counseling. However, counseling sessions deepened my wounds, and the medication didn’t align with my determination to be strong and present for my children.
Rejecting the traditional path, I turned to exercise as my lifeline.
Despite a limited budget, I joined a gym, clinging to exercise as my way out. I pushed myself to attend every high-impact class I could, using movement to release stress, adrenaline, and negativity. At first, I struggled, but I refused to give up. Slowly, the workouts became my therapy—a way to channel my pain into something positive.
During this time, someone noticed my dedication. Kissu, a kind-hearted individual, encouraged me to become a fitness instructor. Hesitant at first due to financial constraints, I eventually enrolled in a course at a reduced rate, thanks to Kissu’s generosity.
In 2014, I began teaching fitness classes, turning my journey into a profession. Demand for my classes quickly grew, and I expanded my expertise by earning certifications in Zumba and Body Pump.
By 2016, I felt my body and mind craving something more—a practice to help me heal, find balance, and connect with myself on a deeper level.
Rather than simply attending yoga and Pilates classes, I decided to become an instructor.
In 2016, I became a certified Pilates instructor, and in 2018, I earned my yoga certification through the YMCA. Private clients seeking personalized, high-quality instruction began to book me, and I discovered my calling: helping people connect with their bodies and souls. Private sessions brought deeper meaning and connection to my work, aligning me with my true purpose.
I also became increasingly aware of the gaps in the fitness industry. Many services cater to those who are already relatively healthy, leaving out people with long-term conditions or the elderly. Wanting to make a meaningful difference, I completed a diploma in working with people with long-term conditions in 2024, becoming a certified Fit-Pro.
That same year, my work gained international recognition, and several employers abroad offered opportunities. Encouraged by my children, I made another life-changing decision: to move to Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.
On February 9, 2025, I reached a major personal milestone: completing a half marathon. It was an accomplishment that reflected my journey of resilience, determination, and growth.
Over the years, my love for fitness has transformed from a personal interest to a lifelong mission. I’ve come to realize how empowering exercise is—not just for physical health, but for mental well-being and confidence. Inspired by my journey and the challenges I’ve overcome, I’ve dedicated myself to helping others discover the joy and strength that comes with movement.
Today, at 53, I am proud to say I’ve turned my passion into a profession. Whether I’m guiding clients, teaching classes, or sharing inspiration, my goal is to help people of all backgrounds unlock their potential and feel their best. I aim to inspire others to embrace movement and discover their strengths.
If you value high-quality, personalized fitness instruction and are ready to begin your transformative journey, I invite you to browse my website and secure a session. Together, we can work toward your goals and achieve meaningful, lasting change.