Jess, 25, Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales

Why did you want to take part in Fight School?

I wanted to make changes in my life because I had fallen into a rut. I’d had a turbulent childhood but then life calmed down and I found myself on repeat. I wanted to do something different. I needed a big jolt.

Had you boxed before?

I used to play-fight with my brother but that was about it! The only time I exercised was walking to the fridge. I was a couch potato. Boxing for the first time was hard but I loved learning. You don’t realise how much technical stuff is involved with boxing and there is a lot to incorporate, but once you get used to it, boxing becomes second nature.

How did you find the training?

I struggled. I ran the first 5km in trainers and I ruined them, they went in the bin. I wouldn’t have completed it without the support of Greg and the others that day. Breathing was a problem for me and that held me back. But once I learned to control that properly, it slowly fell into place. It will be a long time until I am at my best, but I am going to keep working on it.

How was Idris as a mentor?

Idris was really laid back and fun all the time. He was brilliant and so understanding. He gave me lots of advice and he also gave you a push if you needed it! You see us do a swimming challenge, and he swam next to me to encourage me to finish.

Have you enjoyed this experience?

It is one of the highlights of my life. I met people I would never have spoken to in a million years and I did something I never thought I would do. It has made me feel happier in myself, I have lost weight, it has given me confidence to make the changes in my life.