<div class="block-wrapper" data-block-id="a90171b6-33e9-48ce-b434-adba3a5e7b6a"><p>If you are looking for dedication at Melton Waves, you will definitely find it with featured member Chris Hawk. A familiar face at the facility for around ten years, Chris perfectly balances the high demands of running with the therapeutic, full-body benefits of the pool.</p></div> <div class="block-wrapper" data-block-id="e467b462-10b2-4988-a6fa-e488916e7a01"><h4>Balancing the Kilometres in the Pool</h4></div> <div class="block-wrapper" data-block-id="f28306bf-c29d-4688-9971-842be2c005cf"><p>Chris’s journey with Melton Waves started when he needed a way to complement his primary passion.</p><blockquote><p>“I started coming around 10 years ago,” Chris explains. “I am a huge runner, but running can be very demanding on the body, so I started swimming and I love it.”</p></blockquote><p>What keeps him returning after a decade is a simple, enduring passion for health. </p><blockquote><p>“I continue to come because I love keeping fit and exercising.”</p></blockquote></div> <div class="block-wrapper" data-block-id="67fd0fc0-d49a-410d-bb79-7196094ddc0e"><h4>Chasing the New York Marathon</h4></div> <div class="block-wrapper" data-block-id="768ef5b1-d949-415c-89d9-dc0b355f70dd"><p>Right now, his motivation is laser-focused on a massive upcoming milestone.</p><blockquote><p>“My fitness goals keep me coming back,” he says. “I am set to complete the New York Marathon in 5 weeks, and I have to make sure I am taking care of my body so I don't injure myself.”</p></blockquote><p>For Chris, having access to the pool at Melton Waves is an essential tool for active recovery and injury prevention as he dials up his marathon training block.</p></div> <div class="block-wrapper" data-block-id="7dfe670f-ffa3-4968-81bf-d3b9e42a52c0"><h4>Community and Consistency</h4></div> <div class="block-wrapper" data-block-id="1a15d339-90f8-49e1-a80a-bc65c8947ced"><p>For anyone wanting to make fitness at Melton Waves a permanent part of their lifestyle, Chris values the supportive environment just as much as the exercise itself.</p><blockquote><p>“Give it a go, you might surprise yourself,” he advises, noting that he highly values “the friendly staff and patrons, and the sense of community.”</p></blockquote><p>When it comes to stepping out of your comfort zone or breaking out of a fitness rut (like trying a hybrid mix of swimming and running) his advice is highly practical and encouraging:</p><blockquote><p>“Don't be shy, ask for help, set small goals and build on it.”</p></blockquote><p>Next time you see Chris at Melton Waves, be sure to say hello and wish him luck on his upcoming marathon in New York!</p></div>