A WRITER who struggles to concentrate on her work without continuous physical activity has been writing her third book – on the stepper in the gym.

Bethany Pope, 28, of the town centre, has been diagnosed with an attention and anxiety disorder that makes it difficult for her to focus. But she has over come the obstacle by reading and writing while using equipment at Fit4Less, in Eldene.

Using the stepper for up to three hours at a time, Bethany has just completed a poetry collection titled, A Radiance.

“There is a definite connection between physical activity and creative focus. The poet William Wordsworth used long walking tours in order to compose his work,” she said.

“I read a novel a day in the gym, and sometimes I write up to ten pages of prose at a time.

“I would not be likely to produce my work at such a rate, or at such quality, if I did not have access to these machines.

“I would recommend this process for other people who find themselves dealing with anxiety. I can think of few places better to read a book.”

Bethany, who is originally from Florida, has also had a second collection, titled Persephone in the Underworld, accepted by Rufus Books, a Canadian literary press.

She is an award-winning author, poet and graduate of Aberystwyth University’s Creative Writing PhD program.

It is estimated Bethany burns 2,500 calories a day from her stepping.

Gym manager Becky Cox said:“This is one of the most extraordinary stories we have heard. It is incredible to watch Bethany at work.”

A Radiance is due to be released in June, and Persephone In The Underworld will follow shortly after. Both will be available on Amazon.