Njambi Gathecha in her element
What sets those of us who start our fitness as a New Year’s resolution and eventually turn it into a lifestyle, from those of us who give up by day 10? More often than not, it’s the “why”.
Why are you doing this? Why is this important to you?
As human beings, we are innately purpose-driven. Be it in the careers we pursue, how we choose our friends, how we get into relationships or even the hobbies we take up. When it comes to active living, the reason why many fall by the trends, fads and new challenges wayside is because, once the excitement veneer has peeled off, most struggle with identifying their own personal reasons to continue.
What is your Why is a story series I’ve begun because I believe that stories have the ability to move us into action. There aren’t many spaces online where one can read or tell their stories of active living, yet these stories matter. Not just as a way of self-reflection but also as sparks of inspiration to millions out there who still believe that running, cycling, hiking or any other form of physical exercise is just too hard. I want this series to hold that space for candid conversations about active living; our struggles and sacrifices, our frustrations and failures, our achievements and accolades.
Here’s how this works: you fill out this form with some prompt questions to tell me about your fitness & wellness story. The form also has a photo submission feature for our fitness quotes. If you haven’t been featured on our quotes before, we’ll do that alongside your story. If you have already been featured in the past, you may still submit another photo for the future.
This week’s feature is Njambi Gachambi Gathecha, an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and a passionate runner.
Njambi Gathecha is a lawyer living actively
Tell us a bit about yourself. When did you begin living actively, and what led you down this path?
As a woman in my late twenties, fitness has always been a part of me, ever since I was a child. I’ve always been drawn to movement, strength, and feeling connected with my body. But it wasn’t until January 2024 that I truly began prioritising it. What led me to embrace an active lifestyle more seriously was something deeply personal: depression and anxiety. For a long time, I felt lost and disconnected, and I knew I needed to find a way to heal and transform my life.
Starting in October 2024, I made the conscious decision to live more actively, not just to get physically stronger, but to reclaim my mental and emotional well-being. It was my way of saying enough, of choosing to rise above the challenges I faced and creating a new way of living, one that nurtures both my mind and body. Through fitness, I’ve discovered a deeper strength within myself and a renewed sense of purpose.
In what ways has practising fitness & wellness benefited you?
Practising fitness and wellness has profoundly impacted my life in so many ways. On a physical level, it has helped me become stronger, more energised, and healthier. I feel more confident in my body and my abilities, which has boosted my self-esteem. But beyond the physical benefits, the most powerful changes have been mental and emotional.
Fitness has given me a sense of control and accomplishment, especially when life felt overwhelming. It’s been my anchor during tough times, helping me cope with stress and depression. The discipline I’ve built through regular workouts has translated into other areas of my life, making me more focused and motivated to pursue my goals.
Wellness has also taught me the importance of balance, listening to my body, caring for my mind, and nurturing my spirit. It’s become not just a routine, but a lifestyle that has brought a sense of peace and empowerment I never expected.
Follow Njambi as she continues to share her fitness journey on;
Instagram: @_.gathecha
Tiktok: @njambigathecha
Twitter: @_gathecha_
Want to tell your Why story? Here’s the form.
I am deeply passionate about telling stories. Through my KenyanPoet Wellness brand, I get to tell stories that fuel active living. I am committed to collaborating with individuals, brands, and organizations that share our vision of a healthier, more vibrant society. By infusing creativity into wellness communication, we aim to make every step toward a healthier lifestyle feel exciting, fulfilling, and truly possible.
If you would like to partner with us, email us at: [email protected]