A lifelong asthma sufferer and video-game addict has managed to ditch his need for an inhaler, thanks to Outdoor Physical Training’s (O.P.T) exercise sessions.

Set up in 2012 by Barny O’Neill and Clinton Slater, O.P.T focuses on improving people’s fitness and strengthening their minds. The classes promote a natural increase in fitness that is enjoyable, effective and for all fitness abilities, whilst also helping to raise funds for Fisher House, a ‘home away from home’ for military patients and their families, run by QEHB Charity.

Daniel, a 21 year old from Kings Norton, was a self-confessed video game addict, living on takeaway and suffering from weight gain, depression and lifelong asthma, before turning his life around with the help of O.P.T.

He said: “Before O.P.T I had given up on exercise. Living with asthma made it very difficult for me as any strenuous activity led to severe chest pains and wheezing.

“I gave up, took to the sofa and spent my free time playing video games and eating fast food.”

In August 2013, Daniel’s Uncle suggested taking part in O.P.T, in a bid to help him turn his life around.

Pushed on by his Uncle’s plea, Daniel took part in his first session.

He commented: “It was a struggle, but after the hour was over I felt a real buzz. I had just undergone a full hour of exercise for the first time in two years! Not only did I complete the work out, but I had fun, and that was the most important part for me.”

As his confidence grew and his eating habits improved, Daniel also noticed an added improvement to his health, after a visit to his local GP.

“After about two months of training I contacted my local GP for an annual asthma check-up.

“The results were amazing – the best I’ve had in almost all my life! My peak flow, which monitors lung capacity and strength, had gone from a mere 200 to almost more than 600; more than double my previous average.

“For once in my life I was no longer restricted by my breathing.”

Now, 18 months since joining the training sessions twice a week, and nine months after completing the ‘O.P.T 6.6.6 Demons Challenge’, involving six hours, six minutes and six seconds of intense fitness challenges, Daniel can finally live his life without the need for an inhaler.

“Training has become a huge part of my life. I am happier, healthier and more sociable, and finally have control over my asthma. O.P.T is more than just a fitness class. The instructors go out of their way to teach you correct form and they really care about all of the members.”

Clinton Slater, Director of O.P.T, said: “O.P.T offers people the chance to change their lives and give something back to those who have risked their lives to help us.

“Proceeds from the training sessions are donated to Fisher House, helping military patients and their families at a time when they need it most.”

Michael Tivey, Fundraising Officer at QEHB Charity, said: “Fisher House relies entirely on charitable donations. It costs £25 to provide a night of free accommodation for the family of an ill or wounded military patient and every penny raised makes a huge difference.”

To take part in one of O.P.T’s sessions and help support Fisher House, why not take part in a free taster session, at a training event throughout the region?

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