Iron Lady – Mandy Pampallis
Strong First
Mandy Pampallis is a new addition to the local scene here in Hermanus. Her and long time best friend Alicia have just opened the new kettlebell and movement skill studio, The Fitness Factory.
As Mandy was born in a George we are sure she will settle nicely into our town!
See what this local lady had to say to us…
Describe yourself in 3 words…
( …only THREE!!!) Animated, conscientious, dependable.
My three favourite things in the world are…
It’s really difficult to isolate…perhaps: Humility, sunlight, language & movement ( I know, that’s 4, but movement IS a form of language too…) & CHEESCAKE!
What made you decide to open the Fitness Factory?
As two friends in the same line of work we sometimes used to jest about the possibility of working in our OWN place ‘one day’; then early this year the dream became a genuine possibility! That ‘aspiration’, very quickly turned into a reality. The property just FELT right, and we knew we could turn the space into something special, with our personal touch.
Working in a dedicated environment REALLY is a privilege, it’s an experience that allows for maximum concentration and relaxation in an exclusive setting, and the view from our place in the early evening is AMAZING. I will hang around sometimes just to watch that sun slip away spectacularly behind the mountain.
If you are not in the studio what are you doing?
Reading, exploring and making stuff (I have a background in creative arts, sewing, painting, etc) cooking and EATING!
The best part of owning the Fitness Factory is?
I LOVE going to work. I thrive on teaching people to THINK about movement. Each individual client I meet is struggling with something. It might be weight, it might be pain. It is OFTEN self confidence. I know how ALL of those obstacles feel, to me personally. And owning a space where I might assist someone else to be happier in their body, or overcome just ONE of those things is very dear to my heart.
I don’t do motto’s but a dear friend once told me “Have no expectations.” I’m currently processing this one through my hard drive, and it HAS indeed been very useful!
Hermanus is…
A beautiful haven, a blend of curious architecture, charms, artful homes, colourful characters and an abundance of natural beauty. Somewhere I picture myself feeling’ at home’ for a very long time…
I love Hermanus in the…
I only know Hermanus in the summer, really, and my favourite part of those summers is undoubtedly sunsets on Grotto beach, breathtaking!
(Yes, I DO love sunsets!) I am desperately looking forward to spring. I don’t have Golden Retriever in my genes. These wet, wet winters are NOT my favourite, but the advantage is: gumboots, MORE coffee and awesome clear post shower skies.
My favourite place in Hermanus is…
I’m still too new to have an absolute favourite, but I’ve had incredible meals at Eat and the Deli.
I’ve loved lying on the beach with a book at Kammabaai, as well as the buzz of the weekend markets and the FOOOOD!
Walking along Marine Drive, ALWAYS a winner, watching the power of the swell in the bay, priceless.
I wish I knew then what I do now about…
Exercise, courage and the cappuccino’s at Checkers.
My best memories are…
The smell of my dogs when they were puppies, lying next to our wood-fire stove with my cats in my colourful home; and working/laughing with my clients and friends in my old studio. Especially with my 2.15 pm ladies!