Arathi’s story is a testament to the incredible power of resilience, the importance of self-care, and how a strong body can help rebuild trust in oneself, even after life-altering challenges.
At 33 years old, Arathi was no stranger to the ups and downs of life. She had just returned to Singapore to start a new job with her husband when she discovered a lump in her breast. Knowing the significance of this, she immediately decided to have it checked out. After a series of rapid tests, the diagnosis came: stage 2A breast cancer. It was a devastating blow, but Arathi’s journey had only just begun.
The next few months were filled with whirlwind treatments—two surgeries, IVF to preserve her fertility, four rounds of chemotherapy, and five rounds of radiation. The physical toll was immense, but so was the emotional and mental strain. Cancer, Arathi said, reduces the trust you have in your own body. It is something that you cannot control, and the unpredictability of it all can feel overwhelming.
But for Arathi, one thing remained constant throughout her treatments—her commitment to staying active. Even during chemotherapy, when most people would have expected her to rest, Arathi found a way to keep moving. She walked on a treadmill with her bald head held high, worked on strength training, and gradually regained control over her body.
“Exercise has always been a way for me to learn how to move in my body and how my body can move through the world,”
“It helped me rebuild trust in myself that was damaged after the diagnosis.”
Her journey led her to UFIT and it was here that Arathi’s transformation truly accelerated. The moment she began working with UFIT personal trainer, Aly, she was pushed to her limits. Every session was designed to challenge her, to push her into the unknown. While that might sound daunting to some, Arathi found it liberating.
“I really enjoy it,” she said with a smile. “Aly pushes me, and I like that because it keeps my mind active. I never get complacent in any class. The best part is, I don’t have to think too much. I come in, I do what I need to do, and my body feels great.”
This approach to training was exactly what Arathi needed. Having gone through grueling treatments and facing a new reality post-cancer, her body was no longer the same. She had to be mindful of her limits. With the hormone therapy and ovarian suppression she was on, osteoporosis was a potential risk. At just 33, she was determined not to let her bones weaken, so strength training became a vital part of her recovery.
“The medication I’m on has side effects, including osteoporosis, and I don’t want my bones to break,” Arathi said. “Strength training with UFIT was so beneficial for me, as it helped me build strength without pushing myself to the point of exhaustion.”
But it wasn’t just the physical benefits that kept her coming back to UFIT. It was the mental clarity, the sense of normalcy, and the fact that she was part of a community that supported her every step of the way.
“Exercise is not just about the body; it’s about the mind as well,” Arathi explained. “Whenever I come to a class, I feel like I’m not alone. The support system, the trainers, and the other members all motivate me to keep going. I don’t feel isolated, and that means a lot.”
In her personal training sessions, Arathi’s progress was evident. She didn’t just regain strength; she regained confidence. Through each workout, she rebuilt a stronger body and a more resilient mindset.
“I don’t feel beaten down at the end of my workout,” she said. “Even though I train four to five times a week, I never feel exhausted. I feel like I’m on a sustainable path, and that’s really important to me. I’m thinking not just about the next few months, but about the next few years. My goal is to stay strong and healthy for as long as possible.”
Her approach is not just about a quick fix. Arathi’s journey is a long-term one, focused on maintaining her health and fitness for years to come. This shift in mindset—from short-term goals to long-term wellness—has been one of the most significant changes she’s experienced since beginning her fitness journey.
“Before cancer, I never thought about my body in the same way,” she shared. “Now, I think about my body in terms of what it can do and how it can keep me strong for the future. The goal is not just to survive, but to thrive.”
Arathi’s story is an inspiring one. Her journey shows how a combination of determination, a strong support network, and a commitment to personal fitness can transform not just the body, but the spirit.
For anyone who’s been through a life-changing experience like cancer, or anyone looking to take control of their health and fitness, Arathi’s success story is a reminder that with the right support, there’s always a way forward. Personal training isn’t just about building muscle—it’s about building resilience, confidence, and the mindset to overcome any obstacle life throws your way
At UFIT, we believe in helping you build the body and mind that you deserve—strong, confident, and ready for whatever comes next. Just like Arathi, you can push through the tough times and emerge stronger than ever. Your journey starts today.