Background & Experience
How did you get started in personal training?
My journey into personal training originated in sports therapy, where I specialised in treating musculoskeletal injuries. During my work as a sports therapist, I soon realised the powerful impact of barbell strength training in restoring optimal function.
Witnessing the transformative power of compound movements and systematic barbell training, I embraced a philosophy that prioritizes simplicity over gimmicks. This perspective informed my transition from sports therapy to personal training, where I integrate my understanding of musculoskeletal rehabilitation with the principles of straightforward, no-nonsense strength training.
My approach rejects quick fixes and embraces the fundamentals of barbell training for sustainable results. I am committed to providing clients with a comprehensive and straightforward approach that addresses both injury recovery and proactive strength development.
My journey reflects a dedication to leveraging potent tools for promoting optimal function, all while steering clear of fitness fads. Embracing the belief that simplicity is key, I am passionate about empowering individuals to reach their peak physical performance within a concise and impactful training framework.
What are your qualifications and certifications?
MSc Sports Therapy
BSc Applied Sports Science
Professional Diploma in Soft-Tissue Therapy and Corrective Exercise
Training Style
Can you describe your training philosophy?
My training philosophy is simple – strength is the foundation of all physical performance. I believe in getting strong through fundamental barbell exercises, focusing on the basics like squats, deadlifts, and presses. The barbell is an honest tool – it doesn’t lie. I prioritise proper form, emphasising efficiency and effectiveness over fancy gimmicks. Strength isn’t just about looking good; it’s about being capable and resilient. I don’t buy into quick fixes or trends; I stick to what works. Train hard and master the basics – that’s my philosophy.
How do you customise your training style for different clients?
I start by assessing each client’s unique strengths, limitations, and goals. From there, I tailor their training program, prioritising the foundational barbell movements to build strength systematically. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, the focus remains on mastering the basics and progressively challenging yourself. It’s about creating a sustainable, individualised path toward improved strength and functionality, ensuring that everyone, irrespective of their starting point, can benefit and thrive.
Success Stories & Challenges
Can you share a success story from your coaching career?
There are a couple of clients stories that I am proud to have been apart of. One of my clients, Christine, at the age of 75, faced the challenges of two knee replacements and a shoulder injury. Although these physical issues were holding her back in some areas, her mental toughness is incredible. With her full support and trust in me, we got to work. Through a deliberate focus on foundational movements and strength-building exercises, she not only regained the ability to go for long walks but also mastered daily tasks that were once a struggle.
Then, there’s David, at the age of 79, who underwent hip replacement surgery. Thanks to his exceptional levels of strength developed before the surgery, he astounded the surgical team with the speed of his recovery. His commitment to strength training demonstrated that building a robust foundation beforehand can significantly impact post-surgery outcomes.
These success stories highlight the transformative power of basic barbell strength training, showcasing that regardless of age or prior surgeries, dedicated strength training can lead to remarkable recoveries and restored functionality, ultimately empowering individuals to lead active and fulfilling lives.
How do you help clients overcome challenges and stay motivated?
I help clients tackle challenges and stay motivated by emphasising that training should be tough but manageable with the right mindset. I encourage a positive ‘can-do’ attitude, celebrating their progress. When obstacles like plateaus arise, I use precise programming to navigate through them. This structured approach helps clients push through and make consistent progress. By setting realistic goals and focusing on the journey, we turn the difficulty of training into a tool for growth and resilience.
To all potential clients, I warmly invite you to embark on a fitness journey with me. Throughout the past decade, my commitment has been to the principles of strength training, witnessing its profound positive impact on individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels.
Fitness Journey
What are your personal fitness goals and routines?
I have recently tried my hand at powerlifting. I have found this has given my own strength training a new focus and motivation. I plan on entering more competitions and look forward to planning my own programmes in preparation for these.
I believe training hard myself better places me to understand my clients’ experiences in the gym. I honestly believe this should be a prerequisite for any trainer.
How do you stay updated with the latest fitness trends and research?
I’m not that concerned much with the latest fitness trends. Trends come and go, but the barbell stays. I stay updated on what I think matters – the foundational principles of strength training. I focus on empirical evidence, proven methodologies, and practical experience. I’m not interested in the flavour of the month; I’m interested in what consistently produces results. The barbell doesn’t change, and neither does the fact that getting stronger works. I stick to the basics, ignore the noise, and stay committed to what stands the test of time.
