My Story
It’s probably fair to say that there tends to be a perception about a Personal Trainer, normally young, big muscles and very pretty. Unfortunately I don’t really fall into any of those categories.....
Although growing up I was very active and enjoyed most sports, representing my County at badminton, playing football to a reasonably high standard and boxing for as long as I can remember, the commitments of work saw a real change to my lifestyle.
For years I saw my weight increase, my fitness levels decrease and my participation in physical activity become virtually non existent.
I did have unfulfilled sporting goals from my childhood, which would occasionally produce a sporadic short term fitness regime. However the temptation of pizza, chocolate, a bottle of wine and a box of cigarettes always become too strong and I remained condescendingly (although I am sure unintentional) classed as ‘fit for my size.’
At the beginning of 2006 aged 34 and weighing 22st (pictured above) I decided that I had to make a change. Fed up with not being able to buy normal clothes, sit comfortably in a seat on a plane or eat in public without thinking everyone was judging me, I began my weight loss journey.
Initially I was very confused with conflicting advice on diets and types of foods, so combining exercise and sensible eating (not a diet), made a simple but realistic plan that worked for me.
Over the next four years of hard work, setbacks and continual learning, I managed to lose just over 7st, prompting a change of career to become a fully qualified Personal Trainer.
I also managed to finally achieve my childhood sporting goals, competing in a Boxing match in 2010 followed by running a marathon in 2011.
Personally I have never felt fitter or happier and am now considered ‘fit for my age’ instead of ‘fit for my size’, not ideal but better!
Having experienced my own weight loss journey, I believe that I am well placed to help others with theirs. Although it may seem hard work and appear impossible, you never actually know until you try.
Qualifications, Courses Attended & Affiliations Member of The Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs)
Premier Diploma in Personal Training
Certificate in Advanced Personal Training
Certificate in Gym Instruction
Emergency First Aid
Advanced Nutrition for Weight Management
Enhanced CRB clearance
Kickboxing Brown Belt
English Athletics Leadership In Running Fitness - Licence Holder
