SPIRIT OF LEO AWARD 2025 CINDY

We are incredibly proud to congratulate Cindy, our Spirit of Leo Award winner for 2025.

For so many members, Cindy is someone you associate with warmth, kindness, and genuine care. If you’ve trained at Leo for any length of time, chances are you have your own moment, memory, or conversation with Cindy that’s stayed with you, whether that’s a hug when you needed one, words of encouragement at just the right time, or simply her infectious positivity that lifts the room.

Celebrating this award at our Annual Christmas Party was a truly emotional moment. The Spirit of Leo Award represents the very heart of our community, and Cindy embodies it in every way.

If you’re curious about where this award originated, why it means so much, and why Cindy so perfectly embodies its spirit; read on. And yes, you’ll also discover who Cindy wakes up next to every morning (spoiler: it’s not her husband, Russ).

THE SPIRT OF LEO AWARD - THE WHY

The Spirit of Leo Award exists because of Phil Robinson.

Phil was one of Leo’s original members and from the very first day he stepped through the doors, he embodied everything Leo stands for: community, fitness, fun, and family. He was the loudest cheerleader in the gym, always encouraging others to push further and believe in themselves. Phil helped wherever he could, whether that meant supporting members on their journeys or quite literally helping build parts of the gym, including a storage cabinet that still stands in Leo today.

Although Phil sadly passed away on January 20th, 2022, his presence is still felt throughout Leo. You can see signs of him everywhere, but more importantly, you can feel his spirit in the way people show up for one another.

In honour of Phil’s legacy, his spirit, and his contribution to the heart of Leo, we created the Spirit of Leo Award, an award he was, of course, the very first recipient of before his passing.

This award is not about performance or physical achievements. It’s about kindness, consistency, connection, and the way someone makes others feel. Which brings us to Cindy.

WHY CINDY IS THE SPIRIT OF LEO

Cindy truly is one of a kind, a genuine beacon of light within the Leo community. She brings positivity and kindness wherever she goes, both inside and outside the gym. She doesn’t just take the time to get to know you, but your family too, and she always goes above and beyond for those around her.

From opening up her home during Nat’s 24-hour workout, to making Christmas magical for the children of the Leo community by decorating the café, dressing up as Mrs Claus, and hosting story and song time with Jules. Cindy gives wholeheartedly and without hesitation. And as if that wasn’t enough, she also bakes the best brownies.

Her presence alone makes Leo a warmer, more connected place.

CINDY, IN HER OWN WORDS

What brought you to Leo and where were you at the very beginning of your fitness journey?

Why Leo Gym? Because it’s more than a workout, it’s an experience! With great coaches, excellent and varied programming, and fun, supportive members, Leo delivers a high-energy environment adding in a good vibe, awesome tunes, and the accountability you need to stay on track - the perfect formula for fitness success. At Leo, every session feels like hard work and every visit feels like community.

What’s it like training at Leo? What makes you show up every day?

Leo not just a gym, it’s about great friendship, laughter, and a welcoming vibe for all age groups. The coaches are knowledgeable and motivating, creating sessions that challenge and inspire and ensure you do it without injury. After a workout, a yummy coffee and fun banter with the Leo tribe make for a great start to a day. Whether you’re starting out, a gym pro, Leo offers a supportive community that values progress, positivity, and connection. Connection is the Leo secret ingredient that no other gym can duplicate!

What’s been your biggest training achievement since joining Leo?

Winning this award- thank you everyone! This has reminded me to be thankful for the journey and the connections that Leo has for each of the members. Leo has built my confidence making me physically strong and mentally resilient and I have made life long friends.

Has Leo influenced your life outside of training?

Leo helps build energy for daily tasks, improves my sleep, sharpens my focus, and reduces stress. The classes build physical strength, confidence, and resilience, helping me feel prepared for whatever the day throws at me- and classes are usually fun- despite the burpees. Investing in my physical and mental health with Leo means I can live stronger, happier and have great arms- that my colleagues envy!

What’s one thing we might not know about you? What do you do when you’re not at Leo?

On a good day I read an entire book. I LOVE to read.

I am Olympic Gold Medal Napper.

I wake up everyday with Tim. Most know my husband - Russ. But Tim is key to a fulfilled start to every day.

T – Thankfulness

I – Intention

M – Movement – LEO and dog walk

What advice would you give to those just starting out or curious about Leo?

Our greatest wealth is our health and invest in it - Leo is a great investment and I get awesome returns.

MESSAGES FROM THE TEAM

When we spoke to some of the Leo team about Cindy, one thing was clear, her impact is felt far and wide. Here’s what they had to say:

KT

Heart of gold, always there for everyone, consistently shows up for herself and others.

Once I overheard a conversation with her and another member going through a tough time and the first thing she said was, “You are not alone. What can I do to help?” That’s just how she is. She sees what others need, maybe even before they do. She brings in extra cookies for everyone, reads stories to kids at Christmas time, offers to bring anything to any event, cheers people on, gives the best hugs, and is simply someone everyone enjoys being around. She is one of a kind and a gift to Leo and everyone she meets.

Nat

Cindy, you have an incredible way of lifting everyone around you, not just at Leo, but across the wider Marlow community too. Your constant support, energy, and kindness mean more than you know. Coaching you is a true privilege. You really are the Spirit of Leo.

Maarten

Well deserved, Cindy. Phil would have been proud. Your energy, warmth, and positivity make you truly the Spirit of Leo and we’re lucky to have you.

Frankie

Cindy brings so much positivity and kindness to the Leo community. She has a natural way of making people feel welcome and valued, always going above and beyond for those around her. From supporting key Leo moments to creating special memories for our families, her generosity never goes unnoticed. Thank you, Cindy, for everything you do for Leo, we’re so grateful for you.

Once again, congratulations to Cindy on being our Spirit of Leo Award winner for 2025. Your kindness, generosity, and the way you show up for others perfectly reflect everything this award stands for. You make Leo a better place simply by being part of it, and we are incredibly grateful for the energy, care, and heart you bring to our community.

Scroll down to see some of our favourite moments of Cindy captured in the photos below.

THINKING ABOUT JOINING LEO?

It’s never too late to get started, no matter your fitness level. At Leo, we welcome everyone. Our expert coaches will help you choose the right classes based on your experience and goals, so you’ll always feel supported. Everyone has to start somewhere, so if you’ve been thinking about joining, why not take advantage of our 15-day trial offer? You’ll get unlimited classes and the chance to experience what makes Leo the best fitness community in Marlow.

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