Owner/manager/trainer/coach
So I started up SPFit Sherborne in July 2015.
My sporting highlights were undoubtedly at Loughborough University where I studied Physical Education and Sports Science. But so much has changed since then in the world of sport and fitness. I also spent over 10 years as an accountant in public practice, before that light bulb moment when I realised that I needed to return to the fitness industry over 10 years ago. Ever since then I can honestly say that I am living the dream, I really do love what I do, just ask my clients.
But something was always missing. Even though I have worked as a freelance trainer in big chain health clubs and small private gyms I became increasingly frustrated by managers who did not really understand personal training and their own members.
Not now. So when the opportunity came to open my own training facility my whole family agreed we had to go for it. But we had to do it our way and love doing it.
So we have created a “real” club where we are dedicated to providing you, the members, with the knowledge and skills to achieve your goals.
But unlike anywhere else that I know of, whilst we drive the training ethos, the members can drive the direction. This can include requesting anything from nutrition seminars, specific group training sessions and voting on the next equipment purchase. We have a members' committee and actively encourage your direct involvement and suggestions in the services we provide.
I am fully aware that my dream will be difficult to achieve and will be a constantly evolving process. And that is why you, the members, are a vital part of the team.
Qualifications
- Bsc (Joint Honours) Physical Education and Sports Science degree (Loughborough University)
- Advanced Exercise Nutrition
- YMCA Fit Level 3 Personal Trainer Award
- Meditation Personal Trainer
- Advanced Indoor Cycling Instructor
- Circuit Training Instructor
- Advanced Kettle Bell Instructor
- ViPR Instructor
- TRX Instructor/Human Trainer Instructor
- BrogaUk Instructor
- BOSU Instructor
Previous jobs: Royal Marines, Financial Advisor and Accountant / Auditor, Gym Instructor and Personal Trainer at Cannons Health Clubs. Freelance personal trainer training people in their homes, in the outside environment and renting space at Nuffield health and Fitness and Holbrook House Hotel Health Club.
Guilty pleasures: Italian small plates at The Plume, a good curry and a cheese board. I also like a drink or two at the weekend and a particular favourite is brandy in a warmed glass!
Favourite Film: The Great Escape and Gladiator
Something You May Not Know… I was adopted as a baby. I was Club Captain of Loughborough University Students Men’s Hockey Club.
Favourite Exercise: Cross training (my take on Crossfit) – I love to combine big lifts with high intensity cardiovascular training.
Goal for 2023: In 2021 my goal was to focus on long distance running. I was recovering from a major operation and learning to manage a condition called Parsonage Turner Syndrome. It took me a long time to rehabilitate but I slowly built up my strength and running distances. It meant I had to delay my 2021 goal to complete my second ultra marathon known as the Dartmoor crossing, but I succeeded with this in 2022. This was especially personal and emotional for me as it starts in Belstone where my late father has an outdoor centre named after him in his memory. The Dartmoor crossing involves running 36 miles across the difficult moorland terrain from Belstone to Ivybridge. The scenery is amazing but for me running is all about being in the moment in wild and beautiful places, not how far I go or what time I achieve. I still don't have full use of my right arm and hand but I'm learning to adapt. In 2023 my goal is to complete the Bob Graham Round - but not in under 24 hours - but you never know! Also to practice and get better at Mindfulness and Meditation - I have found this to really calm my mind and strengthen my spirit and I can't wait to share the techniques and disciplines with my clients.