Classes & Booking

Michelle Russell

Hi, I’m Michelle Russell, and I’m passionate about bringing fitness to our community through group exercise classes.

Since April 2017, what started as just two weekly sessions at Budworth Hall in Ongar has blossomed into a thriving fitness community. Thanks to your incredible support, we’ve expanded our schedule to offer classes Monday through Saturday, giving you more flexibility to fit fitness into your life.

 

Everyone’s Welcome Here

Our classes are designed for all ages and abilities—currently, we’re proud to support members ranging from 16 to 70 years old. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to maintain your routine, you’ll find a supportive environment where all fitness levels work together.

More Than Just Exercise

Together, we’re building more than strength—we’re boosting self-confidence, reducing stress, managing fatigue, and supporting mental wellbeing. With a variety of class styles to choose from, you’ll discover workouts that energize and inspire you.

Lets keep moving together, Looking forward to seeing you at class !!

Flexible Training Options

Join us for:

  • Live Zoom classes – Work out from anywhere with real-time instruction and community connection
  • Monthly in-person sessions at Budworth Hall – Experience the energy of training together in person

Ready to find your class? Check out the timetable below and join our growing community today.

For everyone who’s been asking how I lost all my weight and got into fitness – Russell of Maximizefitness is the lady to ask!!! No fad diets, an easily achievable weight loss programme with daily support and advice!! Plus fabulous classes, get fit and have fun!! Thanks Michelle!!

What are the Classes:

Resistance and Cardio

Maxi-Resistance & Cardio

Tuesdays 6-6.45pm

Transform your fitness with this dynamic 45-minute session combining resistance training and cardiovascular exercise. Using resistance bands and bodyweight movements, this class is designed to boost your endurance, build lean muscle, and maximize calorie burn. Each exercise can be modified to suit your fitness level, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned fitness enthusiasts alike. You’ll work through a variety of resistance exercises that target all major muscle groups while keeping your heart rate elevated for optimal fat burning. The combination of strength and cardio training ensures you’ll see improvements in both muscle tone and cardiovascular fitness.

What to bring: Water bottle, towel, exercise mat, resistance band

Supple and Strength

Maxi-Supple & Strength

Tuesdays 7-7.45pm

Experience the perfect balance of strength and flexibility in this comprehensive 45-minute class. Combining strength exercises using 1-2kg dumbbells (optional) with flowing sequences designed to lengthen and tone your muscles, this session also incorporates balance work to improve stability and coordination. The flowing movements help increase flexibility while the strength components build lean muscle and improve posture. This class is ideal for those looking to develop functional strength while maintaining mobility and grace. The balance elements challenge your core stability and enhance overall body awareness.

What to bring: Water bottle, towel, exercise mat, yoga blocks

Dumbell

Maxi-dumbell

Wednesday 9.30-10.30am

Power up your morning with this comprehensive full-body workout using 1-3kg dumbbells. This hour-long session features a diverse range of exercises targeting every muscle group, ensuring balanced strength development throughout your entire body. The workout is carefully structured to challenge all major muscle groups while maintaining proper form and technique. Each exercise can be modified to accommodate different ability levels, making it accessible whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to enhance your existing routine. You’ll build functional strength, improve muscle definition, and boost your metabolism.

What to bring: Water bottle, towel, exercise mat, dumbells 1-3kg (depending on ability)

Core Stability

Maxi-Stability

Thursdays 6-6.45pm

Strengthen your foundation with this targeted 45-minute core-focused session. Specifically designed to target and strengthen your core muscles, including abdominals, pelvic floor, hips, and lower back, this class builds the essential strength needed for better balance, improved posture, and overall body stability. A strong core is fundamental to preventing injury and enhancing performance in all daily activities and other exercises. Using a Pilates ball and various core-specific movements, you’ll develop deep core strength and stability that supports your entire body. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their posture, reduce back pain, or enhance athletic performance.

What to bring: Water bottle, towel, exercise mat, Pilates ball

Weights and Cardio

Maxi-Weights & Cardio

Thursday 7-7.45pm

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What to bring:

Water bottle, towel, exercise mat, step, 1-5kg dumbbells
Transform

Maxi-Transform

Saturday 8.30-9.15am

Start your weekend strong with this innovative 45-minute step-based workout that focuses on functional movements rather than complex choreography. Using the step as your primary tool, you’ll work your legs, glutes, abs, and upper body while burning fat and building strength. This class is designed to be as challenging as you want it to be – you control the intensity. The functional movements translate directly to improved daily activities and overall fitness. Don’t have a step? No problem! The class can be easily modified to work without one, ensuring everyone can participate and get an amazing workout.

What to bring:

Water bottle, towel, exercise mat, step, 1kg dumbbell (sometimes used)

Testimonials From My Wonderful Clients

Amazing lady and amazing classes. A year ago I never would have thought I would or even could do some of your classes. You have helped me so much along my weightloss journey and helped me to get fit and healthy. I believe I am a lot stronger, fitter and healthier and your classes and support have helped loads. I feel comfortable doing your classes and supported. Would highly recommend you to anyone at any level. X give it a go. 

One of a kind Michelle. Gave me so much support and confidence over the last few years and the classes are second to none. The atmosphere is amazing and the knowledge Michelle has is incredible. She adapts your workout to suit any need or ability. I recommend to everyone

Knew you were incredible but wow what a background! Don't know where I'd be without you, your positive encouragement and fab classes...I'm fitter now than I've ever been and working on a strong body for the summer....hoping we're allowed out to show it off

When I moved to Ongar 2 years ago I wanted to find some fitness classes so I joined Maximizefitness and can honestly say what lovely group of ladies I have met so welcoming. And Michelle Russell you have been amazing always there to help with any problem or question that I have, your classes are all great work outs and you are amazing instructor thank you

Michelle, where would I be without your support and encouragement . You have seen me through a terrible time,supported me from the very onset I still have a way to go but am fitter than I have been in a very long time You make me carry on with your constant support fitness and food management always there for us xx

Please take 5 mins and listen to one of the best trainers/instructors I have ever met. Michelle Russell from Maximizefitness. I met Michelle through a friend 3 years ago. I was still in the recovery phase of my rehab following emergency spinal surgery. Michelle helped & continues to train/help me 3 years on. I can honestly say I'm fitter & stronger and with minimal back issues. Due to Michelle's extensive knowledge, dedication, support I am continuing to build on my fitness every year. If you want consistency, support, fun & a great network get along to one of her classes.

I have attended Michelle Russell class for nearly 4 years I am 63 and she is such an inspiration no matter what age you are. She has also helped me with my diet and encouraged me to eat healthier . She is the greatest motivator I know and has changed my life and concept of exercise completely.

Maximize Fitness
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