Background & Experience
How did you get started in personal training?
My fitness journey began following a lifestyle change, which sparked a new found passion for strength training and conditioning. Since making those changes in my own life, I haven’t looked back. I’m always striving to learn more, and love helping others on their fitness journeys. I think it’s important that I have a full understanding on how to improve physical performance, so that I can educate my clients and give them the confidence in the approach I’m recommending.
What are your qualifications and certifications?
Level 3 Personal Training
Level 2 Fitness Instructor
Level 3 Award in Supporting Pre & Post‑Natal Clients with Exercise & Nutrition
Training Style
Can you describe your training philosophy?
My training philosophy is based in keeping things simple. I’ve always been aligned with the Body Mentors approach to focus on the fundamentals such as squats, deadlifts, and presses. I know that these will build strength with progressive overload using proper form in every exercise. I’m a big believer that exercise should be enjoyed for life, not just as a quick fix. All movement is good for your mental health and it’s easier to find consistency when you find something you enjoy.
How do you customise your training style for different clients?
With ten years of personal experience in strength training, I find this really helps me to empathise with clients’ challenges, and support them in the best way possible. In a more practical sense I continually monitor and adjust clients training programmes to ensure that their plan is tailored for their specific goals. Which could be anything from building strength to help with everyday tasks to preparation for a fitness competition.
Success Stories & Challenges
Can you share a success story from your coaching career?
One client who springs to mind is a lady who was suffering with a shoulder injury. With coaching and guidance to create consistent training she was able to build not just strength but self belief that she could rehab the injury, and become stronger to prevent it recurring. She’s now confidently setting personal bests with a barbell.
Since becoming a coach I’ve worked with many clients who are introducing strength training into their workouts for the very first time – and the results across the board have been amazing, from improved energy levels to strengthening joints. It’s been a privilege to see what a positive impact strength training can have on clients’ lives.
How do you help clients overcome challenges and stay motivated?
I keep my clients motivated by focusing on their weekly progress. This could be as simple as the feeling of how their clothes are fitting to setting a new personal best. I also like to help them monitor energy levels, sleep patterns and any physical changes they may notice. My clients have gained huge benefits from strength training, including developed muscle tone, improved bone density, enhanced metabolic rate, better posture, mood and confidence.
Fitness Journey
What are your personal fitness goals and routines?
I lift weights on a weekly basis, which is a core part of my training, I love it! I also enjoy running and have completed five marathons including Brighton, London and Paris. True to my character, I like to set myself challenges along the way.
I keep a record of my weights by logging it on the True coach App – this is the same app we use for all of our clients. I work hard and I always push myself to go heavier when lifting weights so that I can become stronger. I work particularly hard on pushing to fatigue when I work out, but I also recognise when I need to scale back. Rest is so important when you have a focus on becoming stronger, and I always listen to my body.
What advice do you have for someone just starting their fitness journey?
Setting yourself a goal, no matter how big or small, can really help when trying to establish a new routine. As well as deciding what you want to achieve, think about why you want to achieve it – and use those reasons as your motivation to stay on track.
Make a plan that works best for you. Start with small steps, take it one day at a time, consistency is key, and trust the process. Over time, all of the little wins will soon add up. I often remind clients – you’ll never regret a workout!
How do you stay updated with the latest fitness trends and research?
I really love every aspect of my coaching career, and I like to stay up-to-date on the latest research whenever I get the opportunity. I follow a number of industry experts online and am always eager to expand my knowledge to help my clients as much as possible.
