Fit Bits: PT Xenia Dixon helps women build strength, fitness and confidence

After having twins aged 40, Xenia Dixon underwent a fitness transformation and now works as a PT, helping women in mid-life get stronger and boost their wellbeing

What I do

I run personal training sessions from a private gym in my garden in central Cambridge and women-only group fitness sessions every Sunday afternoon, which are government-funded and free to attend. I also lead around wellness for leadership development company Global Warriors, who I work for when I’m not personal training.

My fitness story

I founded Xenergy Fitness to help women- especially busy mums and those navigating hormonal changes- build strength, fitness, and confidence and to be part of the movement reshaping the narrative around what mid-life and beyond looks like for women. My passion for fitness stems from my own transformation during lockdown when I returned to exercise after a long break. I had lost my way with exercise after having twins at 40. Taking control of my health and fitness was life-changing, and now I’m dedicated to helping other women feel stronger, fitter, and healthier, at any age.

A huge part of my work is educating women on the benefits of strength training, not just for aesthetics (though that can be a motivator), but for long-term health, bone density, muscle retention and longevity.

Why I love my job

I love building relationships with the incredible women I am lucky enough to work with and supporting them to become their strongest selves. Many of my clients juggle careers, family, and hormonal changes, whether in their 20s or later in life. Seeing them break through mental and physical barriers, prioritize themselves, and regain confidence is incredibly rewarding.

My go-to quick workout

A quick HIIT session if I’m short on time, which I do in my private gym at home. Strength training is my foundation, so if I only have 30 minutes, I’ll do supersets (back-to-back strength exercises). Even 15 minutes is better than nothing!

My favourite feel-good long workout

I love a long strength session—I can easily spend a couple of hours immersed in weights with a good playlist. It clears my head, and there’s no other place my mind can be when I am lifting heavy weights; it forces me to be present in the moment.

The energy-boosting snack I swear by

Usually something high-ish in protein! A protein smoothie, oven-baked oats, or protein pancakes are my go-to snacks. I also make homemade granola to top them with. I’m no baker so everything I make has to be quick and simple. You can find all my easy recipes on my Instagram@xenergyfitness.

My indulgent treat food

I’ve been pescatarian since I was three years old, but a Steak & Honour ‘shroom burger or parmesan fries from Novi always hit the spot!

How I kickback and relax

I’m lucky to live by the river, so I love a river walk with a coffee for headspace or a catch-up. I also love movies under the stars at Enchanted Cinema, relaxing yoga with Heemali at Leave Her Wild Yoga, a good massage, or a blowout night with friends in Cambridge.

My top tips for anyone who needs motivating to start exercising

Start small and be kind to yourself. If you only have 10 minutes, do 10 minutes. Focus on what you CAN do! Many people struggle because they take on too much at once and burn out. Consistency is key; schedule workouts in your diary like you would a work meeting.

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to prioritise yourself. Improving your fitness benefits you and everyone else around you too. If you are a parent, your kids will learn by your actions, more than your words. Seeing you prioritise your health and wellbeing will teach them to do the same in later life. If that’s not motivating, I don’t know what is!

Follow Xenia on Instagram @xenergyfitness or email Xenergyfitness@yahoo.com