Why Focus Training

Darren Chadwick

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• Level 2 Gym Instructor Qualification
• Level 2 Circuit Training Instructor
• Level 3 Personal Trainer Diploma
• Level 3 Master Personal Trainer Qualification
• Level 3 Specialist Personal Trainer
• Level 3 Ante & Post Natal Instructor
• Level 3 Older Adults Instructor
• Level 3 Sports Massage
• Level 4 Obesity & Diabetes Instructor
• Level 4 Lower Back Specialist
• PURE Kettlebell Trainer
• Core Stability Instructor
• K1 Black Belt in Kickboxing
• Self Defence Instructor
• Weight Loss
• Body Building

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  I've always been in the industry since leaving school.

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  Stop thinking and start doing, nobody ever got anywhere thinking about it!!

• What's the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  Meeting likeminded people that share the same passion to help others achieve their goals.

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  Being a good listener, friendly, approachable, and knowledgeable.

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  Martial arts and a sensible varied diet.

• Tell us your favourite exercise

  Pad work, great for cardio and releasing stress.

• Share your favourite nutrition tip.

  Eat little and often to increase your BMR.

Lee Hinegan

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• Level 2 Gym Instructor Qualification
• PT
• Exercise Referral
• Strength & Conditioning
• Level 3 Older Adult Fitness Qualification
• Level 4 Obesity & Diabetes For Fitness Qualification

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  I left college and started working at Iceland as a shop assistant stacking freezers. I knew this would not be my future career path so I decided to make a change. At the time I was also working as a fencing coach throughout the North West at various schools, colleges and universities. I then decided to take my passion for teaching and coaching further by doing a Gym Instructor and Personal Trainer qualification. After gaining my qualifications I started working as a Personal Trainer in a private Racquets Fitness Club where I gained a lot of experience and the ability to train a wide variety of clients. I decided to change jobs because I knew I could develop my skills as an instructor to help people make a change themselves.

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  Finish thinking and start doing! It will be one of the best decisions you will make if you have a passion for fitness. Gain experience working in a gym/fitness centre where possible to get the chance to start working with people and get that real-world experience. Taking a career path as a personal trainer will be such a rewarding experience that will open up so many doors for you.

• What's the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  Getting to support, mentor and teach so many like-minded people who want to put their stamp on the industry, whether it is over the phone, or on a course delivery. I have always been passionate about teaching, whether it be Fencing, Archery, Personal Training…doing it all is so rewarding when you see your students progress and gain new skills and qualifications, knowing that you have supported them along the way.

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  A drive and ambition to push people to make a change in their life. It also helps to have a friendly smile and a good sense of humour.

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  I train at least 3 times a week in the gym lifting weights, I also go Fencing (chasing someone up and down with a sword!) once a week, as well as a bit of boxing training each week too.

• Tell us your favourite exercise

  Deadlifts! It’s hard work and makes you ache.

• Share your favourite nutrition tip

  Eat a good breakfast. Set yourself up for the day so you can eat a lot more throughout the day!

Neil Fitzmaurice

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• Sports Therapist – Taught to Level 2 and 3 in the management and rehabilitation of Sports Injuries.
• Personal Trainer/Gym Instructor – delivering courses for Focus Training since 2002.
• First Aid/AED Trainer – since 1996.

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  I have always been a keep fit and sports fanatic since my childhood, captaining my school rugby and cricket teams. On leaving school at 18, I joined the Royal Marines because of their reputation for physical fitness. After 4 years I left to become a Physical Education Instructor in the Prison Service where I gained numerous qualifications in sport and fitness. It was in 2001 when I attended a training course at Focus Training that I became aware of the possibility of working for them in this capacity.

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  I have had a full and rewarding career in fitness and sport, feeling very privileged and lucky to have done so. I would advise anyone with a passion for fitness to follow this path and fulfil their potential and aspirations.
  Gain as many qualifications as you can, ensuring you use them practically to accrue experience and knowledge. You will quickly realise that putting across your enthusiasm for the subject to others gives great satisfaction and a thirst to keep improving yourself and your clients.

• What's the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  As a sportsman I always loved team sports. At Focus you are always made to feel you are part of one big team with all the support, satisfaction and trust that this brings. As a student you are made to feel important and given all the support and encouragement that you need to be successful.

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  Whilst visiting different sports clubs over the years, teaching for Focus, I have never failed to admire the personal trainer who goes the extra mile to make their clients experience the best it can be.
  They look to be having as good a time as their client and their enthusiasm is clear to see. They have exceptional communication skills, listening and empathising whilst being challenging and adaptable. Their level of knowledge allows them to be confident and progressive. Above all, they leave their client hungry for more and relishing their next session.

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  Over the years I have had to adapt my training and diet to suit the age of my body, with Injuries from my sporting past affecting me more and more. I ensure that I still meet ACSM guidelines each week for all round fitness but stay away from exercises that exacerbate my various conditions. I endeavor to do daily mobilisation and stretching which I find contributes to keeping the aches and pains at bay. I follow a gluten free diet that helps me maintain a healthy weight and constitution.

• Tell us your favourite exercise

  In my early days, as a Royal Marine, I struggled pathetically with bodyweight chins and was lambasted (among other things!) by the PTIs. I made sure from then on that I would always be able to cope satisfactorily with my own bodyweight. I always do one 40 minute session per week on various types of chins, which I now love!

• Share your favourite nutrition tip

  Since becoming gluten-free I have found that the best tip is having a kitchen cupboard full of exciting herbs and spices to brighten up even the most mundane of dishes without the guilt!

Natasha Basile-Gracey

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• Level 3 Personal Trainer
• Level 3 Sports MassageTherapist
• Thai massage therapist
• Spin Instructor
• Kettlebells Instructor
• Circuits Instructor
• Medical Acupuncture Therapist
• Auricular and Micro-systems Acupuncture
• Advanced Massage Therapist
• Chinese Cupping Therapist

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  I worked in a variety of industries including banking and teaching in schools. I always taught fitness classes after work and decided to leave my day job and make my passion of fitness my day job instead. I absolutely love teaching others and passing on over 10 years of fitness industry knowledge.

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  Do it! Just make sure you look after your own body, have regular massage too. This will prolong your career.

• What’s the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  The passion of the students, it seems that by the time they get to the weekend they’re raring to go!

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  Keeping up to date with their knowledge, and promoting a balanced and healthy approach to training.

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  I see what my body wants me to do and go with it! Sometimes it’s yoga, sometimes it's crazy calisthenics and challenging myself with some creative work on the bars or rings, sometimes swimming or walking. I used to be very rigid with my training but now enjoy the freedom of listening to my body and seeing what it wants to do. I generally eat a varied and Mediterranean style diet with the odd glass of wine when I fancy it! It’s all about moderation and enjoyment.

• Tell us your favourite exercise (and why)

  Definitely creating some shapes during calisthenics. Going from ‘I can’t do that’ to ‘I’ve done it’ is very rewarding and fun.

• Share your favourite nutrition tip

  Everything in moderation!

Ross Hanbury

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• Exercise Physiology
• Strength and Conditioning Coach
• 15 years in the PT Industry
• BSc and MSc in Sport Science
• 10 Years working in Professional Sport

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  Always been in the fitness industry, once I started I could never leave!

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  Keep your sense of humour and make sure that you look after yourself as well!

• What’s the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  You get to meet some interesting people from all walks of life; who often teach you new facts and skills!

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  Knowledgeable, empathetic, fit and healthy, good conversationalist.

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  Olympic lifting, running and swimming.

• Share your favourite nutrition tip

  Coffee before cardio helps you burn fat.

Sarah Boyd

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• Level 2 Gym and Exercise to Music Instructor
• Level 3 Personal Trainer
• Level 3 Exercise Referral Specialist
• Level 4 Obesity and Diabetes
• Level 4 Lower Back Pain Specialist
• PT Toolkit
• Pure Kettlebell
• Qualified Fitness Course Tutor
• Qualified Fitness Course Assessor

I started working in the fitness industry in 2003 teaching fitness classes, I then moved into personal training (running my own business) along with managing fitness studios, assessing for Les Mills UK and working as a presenter for other fitness brands. Now I work as a full time tutor for Focus Training teaching the blended learning and full time courses.

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  Before joining the fitness industry I completed a degree in Media and Marketing and worked in Sales and Marketing and Recruitment. I had always been fit and active and had a passion for exercise and nutrition so I finally decided to change my career direction through blended learning and full time courses.

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  Working in the fitness industry is very rewarding, working with people and helping them achieve their goals on a daily basis should be what drives you along with your passion for exercise and nutrition. Becoming a great personal trainer is not easy though and you have to be prepared to put the work and effort into developing yourself through continuing education. The industry changes daily and you will never stop learning, your continuing education and knowledge will set you apart from the rest.

• What's the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  Being able to inspire new personal trainers to be the best they can be, pointing them in the right direction from the start, developing their passion to ensure quality within the industry and indirectly helping the end user (clients!).

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  Passion and drive
  A thirst for knowledge and continual development
  Wanting to make a difference
  Genuinely wanting to help people to achieve their goals

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  I love exercise and weight train in the gym 4 to 5 times per week. I also focus on eating healthily most of the time; choosing whole and minimally processed foods, lean meats and healthy fats. That said I do enjoy an occasional ice-cream!
  That’s life...

• Tell us your favourite exercise

  Easy. Deadlift – One of the best posterior chain exercises you can do, if you do it right that is! It makes me feel strong!

• Share your favourite nutrition tip

  It’s ok to give yourself a break sometimes. Never ‘deny’ yourself. Don’t get me wrong I’m not saying stuff yourself either, but so many people are in pursuit of the ‘perfect’ diet it can be exhausting and you’ll more than likely fall off the wagon by restricting yourself. Be realistic, if you eat clean (most of the time) and you are lean, enjoy the occasional ice cream if you want too!

Matt Marney

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• BA (hons) Leisure Management (Applications to sport)
• L2 Gym Instructor
• L2 Exercise to Music
• L2 Exercise for children
• L3 Personal Trainer
• L3 Pilates Instructor
• L3 Exercise referral consultant
• L4 Back pain
• L4 Stroke Rehabilitation
• Circuit Instructor
• Swiss Ball instructor
• Falls Prevention Instructor
• Advanced Boxercise Instructor

After spending a decade based in and around full-width an orthopaedic clinic I would say my areas of expertise centre around full-width rehabilitation and movement re-education.

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  After completing a fitness related degree I found myself sitting at a desk in central London working for a large advertising agency. It took about two years to realise that this was not something I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  Have a plan and be realistic. These plans do change and that’s the exciting thing about the industry. The industry is always expanding and changing and with that new doors of opportunity will appear. The only way to gain experience is to work with people. Give time, time.

• What's the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  Focus Training had a real passion for standards and genuinely cares about its students. As a Tutor I have never felt out of my depth and that is simply because of the support network the company provides. I can pick up the phone and receive support and guidance from so many different people and this support ensures the standards remain high.

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  In my experience good fitness professionals live the life. They continue to read and update their qualifications and have a passion sharing this knowledge and changing lives.

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  Two lifting sessions a week including mostly compound movements. At least one yoga or Pilates session a week and some hitt type cardio work - I try to eat clean and do 20 min's mindfulness meditation a day.

• Tell us your favourite exercise

  My favourite exercise would have to be the deadlift. It encompasses so many muscles in one movement and really gives a metabolic effect.

• Share your favourite nutrition tip

  Try to have a good portion of protein with every meal including some decent fibre. Stay away from refined carbs and keep your carb heavy meal (if you need one) to after you have trained.

Steve Barnet

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• Bsc (hons) Health and Exercise
• Level 2 Gym Instructor
• Level 3 Personal Trainer
• Ante / Post Natal Instructor
• Exercise Referral Specialist
• Strength and Conditioning Coach
• Lower Back Pain Specialist
• Sports injury
• Kinesiology Taping (part 1)

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  Having left University in 2004 I did various jobs until starting work at a Private Prison in 2006, having worked the landings for 4 years as a Prison Custody Officer I moved into the Physical Education Department in 2009 where I started undertaking courses with Focus Training to enable me to develop my role within the department enhancing my skills as best I could and continue to do so at present.

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  Make sure that the training provider you choose offers you the best support and teaching methods that will enable you to develop your skills to the best of your potential. Never be afraid to reach out for help and guidance. Make the most of the opportunities that arise for you to develop and practice your skills to enhance your delivery. Don’t give up on your dreams.

• What's the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  Having been both student and tutor I can say that my experience with Focus Training has been excellent with the friendliness of staff and right balance of practical and theory that caters for all learners. As a tutor the best thing is passing on skills, knowledge and sharing experiences with students so that they can develop and become the best they can be and seeing them realise that they can do it.

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  Good knowledge of training methods and adaptability in all circumstances. A good personal trainer should be able to listen to their client and work with them to achieve their goals, being approachable at all time and willing to make changes to suit the client. Friendly and good variety of motivation to keep clients coming back and the client enjoy the sessions as this will help with the adherence of the client to achieve their overall goals.

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  Tabata workouts, Crossfit, ocassional running, football. Try to keep as active as possible as work out at every given opportunity. Try to keep to a low carb diet 3-4 days a week and keeping 1 day to have cheat meals (higher carb days), but still within reason.

• Tell us your favourite exercise

  Clean and Press, Thrusters – gets the heart rate going, use multiple muscles and movements can be related to daily activities. Also I enjoy the challenges it provides me with to improve my technique to improve strength.

• Share your favourite nutrition tip

  Find what works for you, don’t just take other peoples suggestions for diets as this may be suitable for their metabolism and work rate but may not be suitable for you. Rather than diet try to change the way you eat as it is more likely that you will stick to it than saying you’re not eating certain food and then feeling guilty if you cave in to cravings.

Sarah Lane

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• Level 2 Gym Instructor Qualification
• Level 2 Exercise to Music Instructor
• Level 2 Kids Fitness Instructor
• Level 3 Personal Trainer Qualification
• Level 3 Older Adult Fitness Instructor
• Level 3 Exercise Referral Specialist
• Level 3 Nutrition for Sports & Exercise Performance
• Level 3 Sports Conditioning Specialist
• Level 3 Ante & Post Natal Fitness Instructor
• Level 3 Fitness Assessor
• Level 3 & 4 Sports Massage
• Level 4 Obesity & Diabetes Fitness Specialist
• PURE Kettlebell Fitness Instructor

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  I joined the fitness industry when I was 16 and gained my Gym instructor qualification with Focus all those years ago! From completing this I achieved my ETM qualification and at the age of 18 started my own business teaching Step classes in the community. I had a van with 30 steps and taught 26 classes per week alongside doing some occasional cover classes. Two years after I built up my Personal training business along with working in schools delivering fitness session to key stage 1 and 2.Throughout the past 17 years I have worked for Focus delivering and assessing on courses and I have a full time sports lecturer position at a local college in the West Midlands.
  I enjoy everything about the industry and thrive on the learning new things.

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  It's hard work long hours and takes time to build it up, yet it’s hugely rewarding.

• What's the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  Focus Training has changed over the years and the qualifications available now are amazing giving new students every opportunity to progress and achieve. The tutors are all experienced in their different areas and the knowledge delivered comes from their experiences within the industry, so first hand.

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  Professional, friendly, knowledgeable, approachable, good time keeping and listening skills.

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  I run and train using cross fit technique.

• Tell us your favourite exercise

  Burpees into a pull up…because I was told to practice the exercise you hate the most time and time again and it becomes your favourite. Lol. And it works everything really.

• Share your favourite nutrition tip

  A pint of hot water with slices of lemon in each morning to kick start metabolism.

Lorraine Dolan-Martin

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• L3 Specialist Personal Training Diploma
• CYQ Level 2 Gym Instructor
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Management of Diabetes
• L3 Specialist Personal Training Diploma
• CYQ Level 3 Functional Training for Older Adults
• CYQ Level 3 Exercise Referral Specialist
• Nutrition and Weight Management Specialist
• Advanced Client Appraisal
• Advanced Instructing Skills

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  Before I joined the fitness industry I was working as a Bar Manager in a local pub.

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  Make yourself stand out from the crowd, if you want clients you need to offer something different. Practice what you preach; you are more likely to get clients if you have a good physique.

• What's the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  The best thing about being a tutor at Focus is meeting new people and learners that are dedicated to achieving their qualifications.

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  A good personal trainer needs to be friendly, approachable, motivational, organised and always willing to go the extra mile. Treat the clients goals like they are your own, this makes them feel more valued.

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  I keep fit by doing cross fit routines at my local gym. I try to drink as much water as possible throughout the day and I make educated healthy choices when I eat. I'm not strict with myself, I do enjoy the odd cheesecake or takeaway but I do try to keep it as clean as I can.

• Tell us your favourite exercise

  My favourite exercise is deadlift into clean and press, I love this exercise because I can feel the burn and it incorporates nearly all of the major muscle groups in one exercise this makes it easier to train when I am stuck for time.

• Share your favourite nutrition tip

  Drink plenty of water

Graham Barber

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• Freelance coach/educator for Focus Training since 2002
• Certificate in Education
• Fitness Course Assessor
• Level 3 Personal Trainer Diploma
• Pump, spin, step instructor
• gymnastic, cricket, football, basketball, volleyball and rugby coach
• ASA swimming and disabled teacher.

Specialise in fitness and conditioning coach for rugby players at club and county level, advanced spin instruction and an avid, enthusiastic step instructor.

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  Prior to joining the fitness industry I was an engineer in the Royal Navy; my naval career allowed me to play sport and developed my interest in fitness training.

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  Identify where you want to be in the fitness industry, then plan your objectives, set aims, identify targets to achieve your overall goal.

• What's the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  Meeting new students venturing on a new career path, playing my part in their development, working as part of a team at Focus who are dedicated to fulfilling the commitment made to students on purchasing a Focus Training package. Feel proud to see student’s progression knowing that I have played a part in their career plan.

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  Dedicated, professional, personable, with positive communication skills, must have a business head and be able to change, adapt to overcome adversity. Giving one hundred percent to their client.

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  Love my weight training, mixed with traditional kettlebell, Indian exercise clubs, little bit of cross fit and general circuits, still play the odd game of basketball, volleyball and badminton.

• Tell us your favourite exercise

  Power clean and press, great massive body movement exercise, engaging core and requiring coordination, speed, agility and power to shift a heavy weight from ground to above head.

• Share your favourite nutrition tip

  Rump steak and chips medium rare… no tiny portions… big cut.

Phil Ramsey

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• L2 Gym Instructor
• L3 Personal Trainer
• L3 Diploma in Exercise Referral
• L3 Diploma in Sports Massage
• L3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement

• What were you doing before you joined the fitness industry?

  Before Focus, I use to work for Manchester City Council teaching fitness classes around North/South Manchester. Along with this, I also still work in my cousins gym based in Manchester. I started my level 2 gym two years ago and completed the level 3 courses last November, and have continued to progress to considering level 4. For the past year I have been running circuit classes and working with the elderly doing easy rhythms and simple circuits.

• What would you say to someone thinking about starting a career in fitness?

  If you love fitness and helping others, go for it, it’s one of the best decisions I have made. Helping other people reach their goals and putting a smile on other peoples faces, makes your job worthwhile and rewarding. There are also different paths you can go down in the fitness industry, especially with the new sessions that are cropping up now.

  Also, never limit yourself when it comes to progressing, because you will be surprised at what you will be able to do.

• What's the best thing about being a tutor with Focus Training?

  Helping people reach their goals in the fitness industry and Focus Training is one of the best companies to do so. I came to Focus and do the courses but who would of thought that I would work for the company that I got my qualifications from. They have given me lots of opportunities to help me progress with my learning and I can't thank them enough.

  If you want a qualification that will actually set you up for the industry, then I can't recommend Focus enough.

• What would you say are the qualities that make a good Personal Trainer?

  To be a good Personal Trainer, you need to be approachable, understanding, determined, a good listener, motivating, good role model, and 100% reliable. Also, never make a client do something that you wouldn't do.

  Although, I would say that being yourself is the most important thing, as this, along with practicing what you preach will allow you to build a genuine relationship with your clients.

• How do you keep fit and healthy?

  I go to the gym 4-5 times a week, I train with and play for a basketball team. I also try to follow a balanced diet.

• Tell us your favourite exercise

  When it comes to gym based exercise, I've got to say that burpees are my favorite, because who doesn't love a challenge, but after this, I have to say deadlifts down to being able to work multiple muscles.

• Share your favourite nutrition tip

  If you want abdominals, low carbs and fresh greens and good fats.

• What 3 things can you not live without?

  Music, exercise and games.

• How would your friends describe you?

  I would like to think my friends would say that I am bubbly, fun to be around, smiley but definitely motivated.

• What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

  When I am not in work or training, you will most likely find me socialising with friends and family or looking for my next holiday, because if there's one thing I love, it is travelling.

Louis Homer

Qualifications/specialist areas:

• BSc in Strength & Conditioning Science
• Performance Specialist Certification
• CYQ Level 2 Fitness Instructor
• CYQ Level 3 Personal Trainer
• BTEC Sports Development, Coaching & Fitness

• What were you doing before Focus?

  Worked as a Personal trainer for 3-4 years across various gyms including consumer and corporate, after which I graduated from St Mary’s University. With my degree I have worked with a wide range of elite athletes from amateur MMA/Combat athletes, sprint and marathon runners to Salford Reds Rugby players, and premier league football teams such as Queens Park Rangers, Crystal Palace and Chelsea Football club.

• What do you love about the job?

  within my role I have the ability to educate more people on health & fitness than I ever could working as a PT. Working with Focus, I am at the forefront of delivering quality courses, reaching far across the county and beyond, educating others in an industry that I am passionate about.

• 3 things that you love

  Sports, Family, Food.

• Favourite fitness training method

  Olympic Lifting.

Debbie Richards

Debbie Richards’ story is quite remarkable. After a ten-minute conversation with her you will be so inspired that I defy you not to put on your gym gear and sign up for the London Marathon!

Today, she says that she doesn’t recognise the person she was just five years ago. Her list of achievements, both sporting and academic, is astonishing. Most recently she has become one of the first people to be awarded a London Classics medal, completing the first ever Swim Serpentine 2 mile open water challenge, to add to her London Marathon and Ride London 100 events.

Debbie very kindly took a few minutes out of her busy schedule to tell us her story.

Have you always been interested in sport?

No, not at all. I was always the last one to be picked for the netball team at school. I wasn’t interested in fitness and I was channeled down the academic route. I’m a solicitor so I’m either driving or sitting behind a desk most of the time. I have to make a conscious effort during the day to get up and move. I used to come home, eat dinner and veg in front of the TV all evening.

How did the change come about?

My light bulb moment was in 2012. I was watching the London marathon on TV and it came to the bit where they try and encourage viewers to have a go themselves. I thought, why not? I was due to celebrate my 50^th birthday the following year and I was inspired to sign up for a charity place for the 2013 marathon. Somehow I got myself through it. I had no proper training, no understanding of what I was doing to my body or how I should fuel it with proper nutrition. Hence, the moment I achieved my goal I just stopped.

Why did you come back to fitness again?

Tragically a good friend of mine died in March 2013. It was a big shock for everyone and I could see parallels between the stress he was under and how I was too. I had piled on 3 1/2 stone in weight and knew that I had to do something about it.

I was so lucky to be one of 20 women chosen to participate in a 20 week programme called ‘Merthyr Tydfil Girls Can’, an off shoot from the Nike campaign. I set myself a goal to do the Supersprint Triathlon, quite funny really because although I knew I could run, I hadn’t swam since I was a child and I possessed only a folding bicycle! I had to go out and buy a road bike, which I couldn’t ride at all at first. I reached my goal and went on to do the Saundersfoot Open Water Triathlon.

This time, largely thanks to the Girls Can programme, I did it properly and alongside my training I began my learning journey too. In the last eighteen months I have gained qualifications in Personal Training, Sports Massage, Yoga and Pilates, Exercise Referral, Outdoor Exercise, Sports Conditioning, Lower Back Pain and Childrens’ fitness.

Most recently I have completed my Level 4 Obesity and Diabetes qualification with Focus Training and I have to say they are outstanding. Very professional from start to finish, I can highly recommend them. It came as a real shock to me when I put on the weighted suits during the course. I really don’t remember the person I was before but that made me realise just how hard it was to be carrying all that extra weight.

How have you found time to achieve all of this?

I no longer waste a second. I don’t watch TV and I find that I have so much more energy now so I achieve a great deal more in a shorter space of time. It’s about balance and discipline. I make myself stop work to make time for my family and studying.

In what way are you using your qualifications?

I regularly teach yoga and pilates and because I have such a wide range of qualifications I can cover most classes that I am asked to do. I have my sights set on doing the Tutor and Assessor courses and I want to complete a Masters in Education. I strongly believe that we need teachers in schools to be educating our children to be fit and healthy, it’s just not happening at the moment. I’m also interested in organising retreats to teach people a holistic approach to health and fitness through nutrition and a better understanding of rest, agility, recovery, as well as safe and effective exercise regimes.

What next?

Coming up in the immediate future I’m off to the Sahara desert in November where I will be running two marathons in 2 days. After that, well I’m sure I’ll be back in touch with Focus Training.

Sarah Tremble

It was entrepreneur Victor Kiam who coined the phrase, “I liked it so much… I bought the business”, well that’s exactly what Focus Training graduate Sarah Tremble has done at the gym which helped her transform her life for the better.

Today, the proud owner of Serendipity Ladies Fitness Centre in Selby, North Yorkshire, Sarah runs an exciting business which she has developed over the past couple of years and plans to expand more in the future. Wind the clock back 10 years and a very different Sarah could not have foreseen what a future in the fitness industry would hold. Sarah explains:

“I had been working as a travel agent for seven years and was really struggling with my weight and bouts of depression. I visited my doctor and was advised that I needed to make some lifestyle changes to become healthier and so the first thing I did was join a small local gym called Body Bits. This was a turning point. Thanks to the encouragement of the team there, and in particular the gym owner Nigel, I got my weight down from size 18 to size 10.

“I loved it, I really enjoyed working out and I also took up Thai boxing which I did twice a week. In the gym I chatted to people and enjoyed helping them too so when Nigel was looking for staff he encouraged me to become qualified and offered me a job in the gym.

“Nigel had gained his qualifications through Focus Training and he kindly funded my initial Level 2 qualification. I gained my Level 3 Personal Trainer and then with Focus Training have completed the Ante and Postnatal, Exercise Referral and just recently, the Lower Back Pain course. I really like the style of learning with Focus Training, it’s very enjoyable, and coupled with the funding available through an Advanced Learner Loan, it made it possible for me to gain the skills and knowledge I required.

“For a long time I had personally struggled with my eating, some days eating far too much and other days not enough. For that reason I also decided to do the nutrition course and now I manage my diet much better and have the knowledge to advise my clients too.”

In 2015 gym owner Nigel, decided that it was time for him to retire and he gave Sarah first option to buy the gym. Since then she has not looked back. She says her first year was crazy as she re-branded the gym, introduced new classes and really put her own stamp on the way they work with clients.

“It’s a ladies only gym and we aim to give a personal service. Everyone has a 1-1 induction and individual programme and then we try to give as much personal input with them each time they visit our gym.”

As for the future, Sarah is ambitious to continue to expand her business with more space an additional services. She plans to continue to study with Focus and we wish her the best of luck and feel sure she will, quite literally, go from strength to strength.

Danielle Benson

Becoming a Personal Trainer can change your own life as well as the lives of others who you will go on to support and inspire every day. We caught up with Focus Training student Danielle Benson, as she was about to complete her Level 4 Obesity and Diabetes qualification, and asked her to tell us her life-changing story.

Danielle Benson, aged 30, has reinvented herself over the past few years. She has completely reset her lifestyle and career and is now really loving her job as a self employed Personal Trainer, inspiring others to make changes for the better in their lives too.

Having managed to shed an incredible 9 stone, almost half her body weight, she was inevitably frequently asked how she did it. The answer is no surprise; it was her commitment to reaching her goals through hard work at the gym.

Danielle had enjoyed her job as a travel rep after leaving school but then settled into a rather sedentary office job and, by her own admission, a bit of a rut. When she touched 17 ½ stones she decided that it was time to act. She joined her local gym and was soon encouraged to join a team who signed up to complete the Born Survivor obstacle course. This provided a goal to work towards. It took Danielle 2 ½ hours to complete the course on her first attempt. It was grueling, but she had got the bug. She recalls:

“It was a 10k obstacle course, it was really hard work but I did it. 12 months later I did it again. This time I had entered the Elite wave which is a competitive race. I did the course in just 1hour 10 minutes.”

“As a result of my progress, my friends were asking me to help them. It was at this point that I first thought about a career in fitness however, I soon realised that I would need the proper qualifications. A family friend had previously worked for Focus Training so I knew that they were reputable and that the qualification and training would be good. It also suited me at the time to do my Personal Training Diploma from home so I could work it around my day job.

“The tutor support that I received from Focus was excellent, it was so easy to get any information that I needed. I attended David Lloyd at Trafford Park, Manchester on a couple of weekends to do the practical elements of the course.”

Danielle successfully applied for an Advanced Learning Loan to fund her Personal Trainer course. This is a Government funding scheme currently available on eligible courses to anyone aged over 19 living in England.

Danielle’s career then took another significant turn. She was made redundant from her office job. With her foot already on the fitness career ladder she decided to invest her redundancy money in further fitness qualifications. Through her contacts she had noticed various gaps in the fitness provision in her local area. A number of gyms were crying out for qualified Aqua class tutors and she had also realised there would be opportunities for her to run aerobics classes. During the space of just a few weeks she added two more Level 2 qualifications to her portfolio, Exercise to Music and Aqua Instructor. She is also a qualified swimming instructor.

So now, Danielle has swopped the mundane, predictable 9 to 5 routine for a week that is full of variety and includes 10 hours at Endure Health and Fitness, two hours of aqua classes at Pure Leisure, some private personal training clients in the mornings and 3-5 hours as a swimming instructor during term time. She says:

“When you are doing something that you love it really doesn’t feel like work at all, and I prefer being self-employed because I can work the hours that I want to work. My PT business continues to grow, I have a range of clients, and some of them particularly identify with me because they recognise that I have been on the same journey that they are taking.”

It’s her own personal journey of weight loss that has driven her to study at the highest level for her Level 4 Obesity and Diabetes qualification. She believes she will be able to help many more people. At first she wasn’t sure that she could study at this level but after talking about the course content to one of Focus training’s tutors she was reassured and decided to go for it. She has this advice who feels the same,

“Before I started this qualification I thought it would be very difficult, but once I got into it, and thought about it, it was ok. You have support from Focus when you need it and it really isn’t as hard as I imagined it might be.”

Our thanks to Danielle for sharing her amazing story and we wish her continued success in her new career. If you would like more information on how to get started in fitness, we can help, just call our team on 0800 999 6664.

Colin Parkinson

When is comes to taking on a challenge, personal trainer Colin Parkinson likes to set the bar high. In just a few weeks time he’s setting off on a 3000km solo cycle tour following the River Danube from Stuttgart in Germany through Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and finishing at the Black Sea in Romania, The journey will take him two months and he’s doing it all for a good cause, to raise money for his chosen charity, Autism Together.

Colin, who is 39 and lives in Wallasey, has always been a keen sportsman, his particular passions are football and cycling. This isn’t his first epic cycling adventure; he’s previously notched up 2500 km pedaling across Vietnam, just him, his tent and his bicycle. In preparation for his Romanian tour he’s training at the gym on most days, doing HIT training, spinning classes and running.

Since qualifying as a Personal Trainer with Focus in 2016 Colin has been developing his own portfolio of clients whilst also continuing to work as a community support worker, assisting people with Autism. Colin’s career path has been diverse, having previously spent 15 years in banking as an Investment Manager. He explains:

“I decided to give up the desk job 6 years ago to become a community support worker which I really enjoy. However, I wanted to do more, and thought that by becoming a personal trainer I could use some of my new skills to help the people with autism that I provide care for.”

His passion for caring drove him to take further courses including Exercise Referral and most recently the Level 4 Obesity and Diabetes qualification and now he says he feels totally confident about the level of knowledge he has gained.

“To be honest I went from having zero knowledge in this field to having full confidence that I can clearly explain technique and physiology to my clients, and that’s down to the support I received from Focus, I can’t fault them. Truthfully, the tutors are fantastic, very knowledgeable, and they give you all the support you need, I always felt I could ring or text a tutor when I had a question.”

Colin took advantage of the 19+ Advanced Learning Loan scheme, a government scheme which funds your learning so that you don’t have to pay until you are earning, it works similarly to the way University students are funded and many of Focus’ Training most popular courses are eligible.

When he returns from his tour Colin intends to further develop his PT business but for now he’s focused on his preparations and successfully completing the trip.

Hannah Candy

Hannah has been running her own, ladies only gym for 5 and a half years. Perfect Fit Is circuits based gym in Wrexham, Hannah and her team deliver 30-minute workouts in a fun and friendly environment, designed for women of all ages looking to get fit, lose weight, tone up or just stay healthy.

Hannah decided to sign up for a Personal Trainer qualification to boost her knowledge and skills so that she would be able to offer more to her clients during their fitness sessions at the gym. Focus Training was recommended to her by a couple of friends who had already studied for their Level 3 Personal Trainer Diploma with Focus. She said

“I really enjoyed the course. It wasn’t too hard and was broken down so it was very manageable. The tutors I encountered were really good and supportive and it was very obvious from the start that they really wanted us to do well. I really enjoyed the study weekends and practical learning and it was nice that we were taught in quite small groups as it was very friendly and not intimidating.”

Hannah went to David Lloyd at Cheshire Oaks to complete her course attendance. Since qualifying she’s introduced new ideas into her classes at the gym and she’s planning on taking her studies further by enrolling for a Level 4 Practitioner qualification in the future.

Karen Reece-Buck

Inspiration or perspiration?

Just what does it take to become a Personal Trainer?

Focus Training student, Karen Reece-Buck has an inspiring story to tell. At 53 years old, she’s developing her own successful personal training business. Her personal journey through debilitating illness, a battle with weight and her outstanding commitment to lifelong learning has become a powerful asset in inspiring her clients as a Personal Trainer.

We caught up with Karen on day one of Focus Training’s Low Back Pain Specialist Level 4 course in Manchester, which, when she successfully qualifies, will complete Karen’s full house of personal training qualifications.

At just 5 feet tall, petite, trim, bubbly and full of enthusiasm for the course Karen is amongst 10 students attending the course and she remarks on how much she is enjoying it.

“This is a Level 4 course so yes it’s challenging but it’s also fun. Most of my fellow students are younger than me and are probably much more into fitness themselves but my role is to train other people and that’s a completely different skill to training yourself.”

On leaving school, Karen became an auxiliary nurse and had a number of roles working in the care sector, social services and also as a receptionist at a firm of solicitors. In 2004, with her business partner Stephen Reece-Buck, they founded a dance and fitness studio called Energize Dance and Fitness based in a mill in Burnley. Stephen taught the classes and Karen’s role was administration, PR work and managing all the admin side of the business. Two years ago the mill was demolished and the business moved to its new home at Burnley campus.

Alongside her work at the studio Karen has always dedicated any spare time that she had to continuing her self-development, amassing no less than 7 diplomas and over 40 qualifications since leaving school. Courses covering a range of interests from business and finance to photography, at night school, college, and via distance learning, she is a self-confessed learning addict.

Seven years ago, events took a dramatic turn when during a routine shoulder operation, a nerve block hit the phrenic nerve in Karen’s neck leaving her with a condition called phrenic nerve palsy affecting her movement down one side, her lungs and also her breathing. Karen now has a registered disability although it’s difficult to imagine anything that could hold this woman back.

“Doctors warned that I might be confined to a wheelchair after my operation went wrong.”

After time in intensive care Karen was told that she might be a wheelchair user for life. She went on to defy the doctors but her lengthy period of immobility caused her to gain a significant amount of weight.

“I had always carried some weight but it escalated dramatically and when I reached size 22 I knew it had now become a serious issue. In a way this was a turning point because I decided that I needed to know more about nutrition. I found a course I was interested in with Focus Training but they explained that I needed to gain a Level 2 Fitness Instructor qualification first. So I did. That was in 2014 and since then I’ve completed my Personal Training Diploma including Nutritional Advisor qualification, GP Exercise Referral Specialist Certificate, Diabetes and Obesity Specialist and now my final Low Back Pain Specialist qualification. And, during this time I am delighted to have lost 5 stone, a full 6 dress sizes!”

“It has truly been amazing. I can honestly say that I hated school but with the right support, and Focus tutors have been absolutely brilliant, I have flourished. I have done both part time and full time courses, I completed my Personal Training Diploma in just 4 weeks on a full time course.”

“My message now is that anyone can do this. There are no limitations. I have the knowledge and skills to teach, other people can do that too if they really want to. My role is to inspire and motivate my clients and I draw on my own personal story to do that.”

When Karen first rang Focus Training she feared that, being over 50, she might be too old to start out on a new career pathway but she was pleasantly surprised by the encouragement and support that she received.

She has successfully applied for three Advanced Learning Loans to help her fund her training and would recommend that others check their eligibility for this Government funded scheme. Most people aged 19 years or over and living in England are likely to be eligible.

Today Karen thrives on giving that same encouragement and support to her own personal training clients:

“I want people to feel as good about themselves as I do about myself. I have clients who have lost a lot of weight and are now living a much healthier lifestyle. I hope to help people with anxiety, depression and other conditions to take control of their lives and feel much healthier. I don’t go around running half marathons or jumping around in the gym, I can’t physically do that, but I can still achieve results by using my knowledge and inspiring people.”

What next for Karen? Well she intends to keep on learning and as long as Focus Training has more courses lined up, she’ll keep on coming back for more.

Craig Hawley

Craig, from Liverpool has always enjoyed keeping in shape. He’s keen on running and does some gym work, although up until now he says it has been on a very limited basis.

In the past year he has been inspired to become a Personal Trainer by one of the personal trainers that he works with At David Lloyd. He has been enjoyed the workout sessions so much that he thought he would take it a step further and get the knowledge and skills to become a personal trainer himself.

Focus Training came recommended by a number of the personal trainers at David Lloyd and so Craig took a closer look at the Focus prospectus. He says:

“I choose Focus because, from their prospectus I thought that they more applicable to what I wanted to do. Having done both my Level 2 Gym Instructor and now the Personal Trainer course I would certainly recommend them. The tutors have been spot on, we are very well prepared for the exams and not a huge quantity of work to absorb. Overall I’d say it has been very satisfying and the course is very fulfilling.”

Carol Doherty

Carol is a judo enthusiast and coach from Didcott and recalls taking a course with Focus Training many many years ago. She then worked for 30 years in the insurance industry before deciding it was time to get back into the fitness sector.

Having enjoyed her previous course with Focus she signed up firstly for her Level 2 Gym Instructor course and we caught up with her towards the end of her level 3 Personal Trainer course. Once again, Carol has thoroughly enjoyed the course and says that Focus have gone the extra mile to support her. Carol explains:

“About 8 years ago I found out that I was dyslexic. It has always been a trial for me to study and that can put you off doing further education. The team at Focus Training have been fully supportive of everything I’ve done and that has helped me to achieve my goals. They are professional and a really nice company to train with. I’ve been to a number of venues around full-width the country and they are always good environments with good gyms to practice your practicals.”

Charlotte Bolton

Charlotte first came to Focus Training to do her Level 2 Gym Instructor course and is currently completing her Level 3 Personal Trainer Course. She has attended courses at two of the Focus Training venues, Bannatynes in Birmingham and David Lloyd in Trafford Park.

Charlotte’s goal is to work with children as a personal trainer, an area of the fitness industry with a high demand for personal trainers both inside and outside the school environment. She came across Focus Training by chance through a search on the internet and has been particularly impressed by the tutor support she has received:

“I really like how friendly the tutors are and how supportive they are throughout the course. I would definitely recommend Focus Training to a friend.”

Adam Waterfield

Adam Waterfield lives in Wythenshaw and first found his passion for wrestling at the age of 7. In his mid twenties he decided to make the transition into Mixed Martial Arts and he now makes his living as an MMA coach.

Becoming a Personal Trainer is something he has wanted to do for a number of years however, it was finding out about the Advanced Learner Loans that are available with Focus Training that made it possible. He explains:

“A friend told me that if you were 19 years old or over you could apply for a learning loan to fund your course with Focus Training. I researched it on the website and contacted them to find out more. That was it, I applied for and received a 19+ loan to fund the course and here I am just a few months later, about to qualify as a Personal Trainer.”

He continues: “I’m coming to the end of my personal trainer course and Focus Training have been brilliant throughout, from start to finish. I do struggle with the theory side of the learning but I’ve had constant feedback and support from the tutors which has helped me enormously.”

Tamas Munkacsi

Pure Gym Manchester Exchange Quay

Tomas Munkacsi, like many of our students, has successfully completed more than one course with us and is planning to do more in the future to expand his knowledge and skills base as a successful PT. Here’s his story…

Tomas, aged 27, hails originally from Hungary from a family where sport was an important part of family life. With a passion for sport in his blood he was encouraged from a very early age to join in a variety of sports and says that this is where he learned some of the most important lessons in life, lessons that he now applies in his role as a professional personal trainer.

“I loved sport as a kid and was particularly motivated once I got into the competitive side. Sports such as football, wrestling and combat sports require determination, discipline and commitment if you are going to succeed and reach your goals. That ground full-widthing stuck with me and I try to apply the same approach to every challenge I take on in life.”

As a youngster Tamas particularly shone at boxing. He joined his first club at the age of 17 and went on to enjoy over ten years as an amateur and semi-pro boxer, notching up appearances in many national and regional finals. In 2010 he became the Budapest Cup Champion.

So, for Tamas, when the time came to choose his future career path there was absolutely no contest, a career in the fitness industry was a natural progression for him and he became a qualified ABA Boxing Coach.

In 2008 he decided that he wanted to broaden his horizons as a coach, taking his skills and positive mental attitude to a wider audience, and that’s when he first found Focus Training, by chance whilst surfing the net.

“I needed a training provider that would allow me the flexibility to complete my course at my pace. In my case that didn’t mean slowly but just so I could fit it around full-width my existing commitments and lifestyle. Focus Training offered exactly the course and support that I needed and I have never looked back.”

Having completed both his Level 2 Gym Instructor and Level 3 Master Personal Trainer qualifications Tamas is planning to do our Strength and Conditioning Coach course.

Looking back to when he first enrolled he recalls being concerned about the course materials. English is not his first language and he wondered whether the materials and on-line portal would be clear enough for him to comprehend.

“All the resources are great, they are very clear indeed, easy to read and complete and for anything that I couldn’t grasp straight away, my tutor was on hand to help. That’s where I can say Focus Training really surprised me, I wasn’t expecting the tutors to be so supportive, they are always willing to help right away, as soon as you need them. They really do come highly recommended by me!”

Tamas loves his work as a PT. He feels grateful that he had the opportunity to turn his passion for sport into Personal Training to help other people improve their performance, whether they are a regular gym goer or high performance, competitive athlete.

“I strongly believe in actions (make it happen!), determination (how bad you want it!), and discipline (sticking to your goal!).”

His own ultimate career goal is to open up his own gym specialising in boxing and high performance training. With the level of drive and enthusiasm he has demonstrated so far, we can’t see anything standing in his way.

Johnny Palmer

At Focus Training, we have a passion for turning fitness fanatics into leading professionals of the fitness industry. Many of our students made the decision to swap their hum-drum desk jobs for a career as a Personal Trainer and have never looked back.

We caught up with Johnny Palmer a highly successful Personal Trainer since becoming qualified with Focus. Lancashire lad Johnny found a passion for fitness after joining the gym with friends. However as his pals soon lost interest, Johnny found a new love of fitness training, establishing a regular regime up to five days per week.

Having worked as an automotive mechanic in a family-run garage for the past three years, Johnny felt that he needed a new challenge to allow him to further his career.

“I had this gut-wrenching realisation that this wasn’t what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I was unsure what else I wanted to do, but knew that if I left it much longer without taking action, this would be my miserable future.”

With his passion for training & nutrition on his mind throughout the working day, and his every spare minute spend in the gym, it didn’t take Johnny long to decide on the right path.

“I wasn’t at work, I was in the gym, if I wasn’t in the gym, I was asleep. This was a huge realisation, which eventually pushed me to make the decision to start a new career within the fitness industry.”

Johnny began studying for his Level II Fitness Instructor Qualification with Focus Training, after being recommended to do so by a Personal Trainer at his gym.

“The courses were honestly brilliant. One thing that was immediately obvious was that the tutors were clearly fitness fanatics – all in great shape and very, very knowledgeable. I could have sat with them for hours talking about fitness & nutrition.

The courses were clearly high quality, and all the learning was broken down into easily manageable sections, which was a great help with the likes of modules such as Anatomy & Physiology.”

Soon after completing his Level II Gym Instructor qualification, Johnny landed his first fitness job as a Lifestyle Consultant & Fitness Instructor at his local Holiday Inn Hotel Gym, Spirit Health Club. He was awarded Employee of the Year within his first year in recognition of his outstanding performance, impressive results, member feedback and positive contribution to the club. Ambitious to stretch himself further, Johnny joined us again to complete his Level III qualification to become a fully-fledged Personal Trainer.

“The quality speaks for itself. I had no targeted marketing, yet I booked up a six week waiting list within two weeks.”

Since becoming a Personal Trainer, Johnny has successfully designed and integrated a variety of weekly classes including spinning, circuit training, swimfit, core stability, core circuits, indoor bootcamp, outdoor bootcamp, strength and conditioning, boxfit and small group training at Spirit Health Club.

He continues to develop his own skills and grow his client base through the impressive reputation he has established as a qualified fitness professional.

So what’s next for Johnny?

“I’m very ambitious, especially having seen the impact I can make within a small health club. I want to take my next move by storm, expand my services and unveil some very exciting game changers. Without giving too much away, all I can say is watch this space!”

Needless to say, we’re hugely proud of Johnny’s success and wish him the best of luck!

If you’re in need of a spot of motivation, expertise and innovation from a qualified Personal Trainer, it goes without saying that we highly recommend the services of Johnny Palmer.

Kate Carroll

www.thebodyarchitect.co.uk

If you are aged 19 or over and live in England, it’s highly likely that you could pay for your personal trainer qualifications with a government-funded, 19+ Learning Loan. And, just like a student loan you don’t have to pay anything back unless you earn over £21,000 pa.

For personal trainers like Kate Carroll, aged 47 from Ascot, a 19+ Learning Loan has been extremely helpful. Kate recently launched her own PT business, The Body Architect, having converted space at her own home into a stunning fitness studio. She says the money she saved by taking the loan allowed her to invest in creating the studio facility and has, in fact, been a critical factor in making her new personal training business viable. Here’s Kate’s inspirational story…

Originally from Yorkshire, Kate worked in the fast paced advertising industry. Ambitious and hard working, she moved to London to pursue her career as a Client Services Director working on blue chip accounts such as Hugo Boss, the Post Office and Diet Coke.

She admits that for years she never really had to work at her figure, that was until marriage and children came along. Kate recalls, “All of a sudden I gained weight, my body changed and I literally felt like a different person. I knew I had to do something and was pretty quick to take action. Just weeks after my second child was born I signed up with a PT at the local gym. I absolutely loved it and soon became hooked on the feel-good factor it gave me.

“To be honest, once the family came along, I found it difficult to commit to the same work schedule and began to think about how I could turn my passion for health and wellbeing into a job. I found Focus Training on the Internet and had also seen adverts in magazines so I gave them a call.

“At that point I hadn’t heard of 19+ Learning Loans and so it was a very nice surprise when they told me that I only needed to pay a deposit. Focus helped me get the loan and my training journey started. I completed my Gym Instructor, Personal Trainer and Master Personal Trainer qualifications, all funded by the 19+ scheme.

“My marketing background helped me enormously in defining a target market for my business. It’s interesting that in the Ascot area there are so many fitness related opportunities out there, boot camps, personal trainers… people are really into body image and exercise. So, I looked at how I could differentiate my proposition and give my clients added value.

“The qualifications I have gained with Focus are very comprehensive, I wanted to offer a quality service to my clients and therefore quality training was essential. I can’t thank my Focus tutor Mike Watts enough; he just knew the answers to all my questions and supported me from start to finish. Not only that, I really enjoyed it!

“Much of what’s on offer in this area is targeted at a younger profile so I decided that I would offer a more in-depth, dare I say, ‘intelligent’ training and nutrition service for slightly older clients, some of whom have specific needs. Consequently I provide tailored training that starts out with detailed baseline assessments of posture, fitness, body alignment and weight before creating a bespoke plan. Many of my clients have underlying health issues, postural problems, bad knees; a recent client arrived needing help after breaking her arm at a military boot camp.”

Now Kate’s children are 10 and 7 years old and she’s in a position to focus on taking the business forward. The transformation of a garage space into a very impressive, well equipped fitness studio means she can offer both cardio and muscular training regimes in a private environment.

With Kate’s positive attitude and intelligent approach to personal training and running a business, we’re sure The Body Architect is well on the way to building a reputation for quality and success.

Mario Parscarella

Mario Pascarella (aged 28) is passionate about health, fitness and nutrition. As a body builder he is totally committed to keeping himself in peak physical shape and finds that he frequently attracts questions from people looking for advice on how to get the best possible results from their own training regimes.

Multifaceted Mario is a panel beater by trade and also has a security license that allows him, amongst other things, to work the doors at nightclubs. But, his real passion is the gym as a fully qualified Personal Trainer, he gets his greatest satisfaction from helping sand advising a number of private clients at The Gym Group in Bedford.

Mario found studying for his personal trainer qualification with Focus Training really straightforward because it totally suited his lifestyle, which is, ideally, “work, gym, study… repeat”.

Having found Focus on the Internet he was pleased to discover the option to study at home with regular tutor support by telephone and that he would be able to attend the practical element of the course at a convenient venue in London.

Mario said:

“It was crucial that I could carry on working whilst studying, that’s why I chose Focus Training. I got all the help I needed, when I needed it, to complete the course. It worked really well for me and now I’m doing what I love, helping others to improve their personal fitness.”

Mario is a shining example to all fitness enthusiasts out there of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication. We hope he continues to inspire others to reach their potential with safe and effective exercise and nutrition regimes.

Roddy McDermott

It goes without saying really that every one of our students is different, that’s what makes our job so interesting. Here at Focus Training, our students are treated as individuals, not just numbers and we aim to tailor our service to each student’s needs. Catching up with ex student, Roddy McDermott we were pleased to find out what he was now up to and what he thought about his experience of qualifying with us. Here’s what he said…

“I left school when I was 16 years old and went to college to do a Level 2 qualification in Sports and Recreation because I’d always known that working in the fitness industry would be something I’d enjoy.”

“I really wanted to take a Level 2 Gym Instructor course, but based in Edinburgh, it can sometimes be difficult to access the courses that might be more readily available elsewhere in the UK. Luckily, however, a friend of mine knew about Focus Training and recommended the course that they run in Glasgow. This was brilliant news for me, not only was the course handy for me to get to but my friend highly recommended Focus Training as a company.”

“Once the course started I received lots and lots of telephone support from my tutor. It was really good, they talk through everything on the phone which made learning so much easier because they were able to give practical scenarios that made things seem easier.

“Although I was completing some elements of the course at home I certainly wasn’t home alone. I’ll not lie, there were times when I found the course challenging, but that was when Focus Training came into their own, they went the extra mile to help me, they believed in me and so I certainly wasn’t going to give up.

“When it came to the attendance days I was able to go to their Glasgow training centre where I really enjoyed the practical elements of the course. I think it is so important to have as much opportunity as possible to actually put the teaching theory into practice and to get feedback from people with plenty of experience of doing the same thing.

“I’m currently working at the Royal Commonwealth Pools in Edinburgh and I hope to carry on with Focus Training to get further qualifications to work with older adults and ante and post natel clients.”

We say, well done Roddy, and yes, we agree, our tutors are, though we say it ourselves, pretty remarkable! Good luck with the next chapter in your career.

Ryan Cadman

At just 20 years old Ryan Cadman from Bolton has already achieved Personal Trainer status and is working as a PT to help fund his three–year degree course at Bolton College where is studying for a BSc in Sports Rehabilitation.

Ryan has always loved fitness and went to Bolton College to take a Level 3 BTEC in Sport. After that he knew he wanted to make it his career and chose to continue his studies with Focus Training because he wanted the flexibility of being able to study at home in his own time. He explains:

“At the time some of my friends were doing a similar qualification on a full time basis at the college which took a whole year. I decided to study with Focus Training because I wanted to have time to be able to work as well. I kept to the action plan that we set together at the outset and the phone calls with tutors were excellent. I easily managed to fit in the studying around work and completed my qualification in much less time than my friends on the full time course.”

His qualification landed him roles as a PT at Barbarian Gym and Xercise Gym in Bolton where he has gained valuable experience of training clients on a one-to one basis. He continues

“ It is brilliant to have the best of both worlds, I can work and earn a living whilst furthering my qualifications because I know I want to take my career as far as I possibly can. After my degree I hope to do a Masters or a Level 4 PT course, or both!”

Three years ago Ryan’s sister completed a Gym Instructor course with Focus Training. She highly recommended the company and impressed Ryan with the workbooks and learning resources she showed him.

“It’s always good to have a recommendation from someone you know and I would be happy to recommend Focus to anyone. The whole experience was very good, excellent tutors, great on-line learning tools. The qualification has prepared me for what I want to do which is share my knowledge about fitness to help other people achieve their goals.”

Ryan is a self-motivated individual who has cracked the work/study life balance and is making it work for him. We wish him all the best with his degree and look forward to working with him at Level 4 in the future.