Personal Training
I am a fully qualified personal trainer with a nutrition coaching qualification. I also hold a referral qualification which means that a GP can refer certain patients to me for example people who suffer from joint issues, obesity, diabetes etc. I am passionate about helping people return to or start exercising. It is never too late to start and I really mean that. As we get older we lose muscle at an ever increasing rate but we can reverse this process through strength training. You won’t end up looking like a body builder but you will improve your body tone and shape (if that is important to you).
My philosophy
I believe everyone can improve their fitness levels. However, if you want to train for a marathon I am probably not the right personal trainer for you! I work with men and women in midlife and older who want to improve their fitness. By fitness I mean cardio vascular fitness, strength and flexibilty. I am a fan of functional exercise – exercise which serves a purpose beyond just the aesthetic appeal! I am a tennis player so I think about the relevant strength exercises to aid me on the tennis court. Flexibility and balance are also really important. As we get older, we still want to be able to reach and lift, carry or drag, get on and off the floor, play with the grandchildren etc In my sessions I will always include balance and flexibilty exercises.
I encourage my clients to start slow – I will meet you at whatever level you are at. I will help you build up your strength and cardio vascular fitness via a program designed for you. I won’t over challenge you but you will be challenged! Your confidence will grow as well as your muscle power!
Increasing muscle in conjunction with a good diet is also important for weight loss or weight maintenance.Building lean muscle helps boost your metabolism. There is something of a misconception that older people cannot gain muscle. This isn’t true but as we age it can be harder. However, by focusing on the right type of exercise and getting your diet right, you can build muscle.
Strength training also helps with blood glucose management and insulin sensitivity – very relevant for anyone who is border line diabetic. Strength training provides you with the stimulus to build and maintain bone strength reducing your risk of osteoporosis. A strong body is less likely to injure itself through falls. A strong body generally has better posture which will in turn help prevent injury. The benefits for our brains are also significant. New research shows that exercise can lead to an increase in brain cells.
Exercise shouldn’t be a chore. It should be something you want to do; something you enjoy! Remember, that by doing exercise you are carrying out an act of self-care. I always encourage clients to find a form of movement they enjoy (in addition to strength training!) so that might be dancing, golf, walking, tennis etc
Some other benefits of personal training
Personal training isn’t just about the training. As a Personal Trainer I will talk to you about your diet; how to fuel yourself properly for whatever you are doing. Many people don’t eat enough protein for example. You need protein for recovery and muscle growth. Recovery is also important – I will definitely encourage you to take adequate rest. As you get older your capacity to heal lessens so be proactive in avoiding injury -this means don’t over exercise. Whilst I will encourage you to be active every day, this doesn’t mean doing massive, intense training sessions which are stressful on the body. Don’t ignore pain!
Key Features
- 1:1 and small group coaching indoors or outdoors
- Flexible training plans
- Programs specifically designed for you.
- Personal Training can be combined with a Health Coaching program
1:1 Coaching £40 per session (generally 1 hour)
1:1 Block of 12 sessions £420 This includes an additional initial consultation and a health & fitness assessment
Small group coaching (2 -4 people) £60 per session
Other reasons to exercise!
The psychological benefits of exercise are massive. Exercise improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression and negative mood and by improving self-esteem and cognitive function. All those endorphins that are released when you exercise not only make you feel better, but also help you to concentrate and feel mentally sharp. Who doesn’t feel better after a walk outside? Exercise can also improve sleep and it can be social. Exercising with a friend or with a group provides motivation and accountability.
“Exercise not only changes your body, it changes your mind, your attitude and your mood”
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