Thinking back, what was the problem you needed to solve when you contacted Craig?

When I first met Craig, I had very little confidence, was overweight and was scared stiff of stepping into a gym and using anything other than the treadmill or cross trainer. 

I didn’t even feel comfortable going out with my friends because I was so body conscious and aware of what people would think of me. I couldn’t stand to have photos taken and avoided mirrors as much as I could. I didn’t want to face the fact that I’d got myself into a massive hole and I felt trapped. 

I used to try and lose weight through ‘quick fix’ extreme diets, which involved no exercise. They didn’t work and just made me ill. 

I used to try hard for a week or two and then it would all go to pot. I used to binge eat and sleep most of the day! I knew things were spiralling out of control, but I was comfort eating and didn’t know how else to deal with it. 

I went to Trinity Fitness with one of my friends one day and saw a leaflet for Craig’s training. I was even embarrassed to pick it up, but I did, and I’m so glad! I managed to build up enough confidence to send Craig an email, and it all started from there.

What do you feel you’ve achieved during your time working with Craig?

I now feel much more confident, not just within myself, but with doing my workouts in the gym. 

Craig introduced me to resistance training and strength-based workouts, which I’d never done before. I had so much determination, and Craig helped me focus on that, rather than anything else. 

I was always worried about trying new things, but with Craig’s constant reassurance and help, I got over this quickly. 

I started to learn so many new exercises that didn’t involve either a treadmill or a cross trainer, and I was enjoying it! 

Over time, we’ve built up all my workouts, and I really can’t believe what I’m achieving in the gym. I’m using barbells and doing all sorts of exciting exercises, and the weights are going up and up.

Although my confidence was a major problem, my main aim was to lose weight. I thought I’d find it difficult losing weight slowly and consistently, but I’m not! My mindset has completely changed. I’m learning how my body works and how it responds to different things. I’m looking after it for the first time. 

I’ve been working with Craig for six months, and I’ve lost over 10kg. I couldn’t be happier! I’m so close to my end goal, and I love the gym more than ever!

What’s different in your life today compared to before you started working with Craig?

The main difference in my life today is my positivity and attitude, which is something I’ve always struggled with. Working with Craig has not only helped me to achieve my fitness and nutrition goals but has also changed my mentality. 

My whole life has completely changed. I’m much healthier, and I eat and enjoy healthy foods which I’d never tried until six months ago. I also have a proper sleeping pattern now and can relax. 

I’m much fitter and enjoy going to the gym and exercising. I don’t feel out of place in the gym now which is a massive achievement.’

If you had to pick one thing, what would be your highlight so far? Which thing are you most pleased about?

The highlight of my fitness and nutrition journey has to be my weight loss. I’ve achieved a lot of things while ultimately working hard to lose weight, but the results have been my main motivation. Doing progress checks and comparing photos and measurements makes me realise how far I’ve come and helps me to keep pushing towards my final goal.  

How has Craig helped you solve your problem? What do you particularly like about his approach and delivery?

Craig constantly helps me. If I have any problems or need a little extra assistance, he’s just a message away. 

Craig is kind and understanding; he’s not one of those scary or seriously pushy personal trainers! He pushes me when he knows I’m ready, through being supportive. He’s taught me so much, and I dread to think where I’d be without his help.

What are your health and fitness goals from this point onwards? Are they any different to before you started working with Craig?

My current health and fitness goal is to keep eating healthy meals and to explore more with new foods. I’ve always been a fussy eater but over time this is changing. 

I want to lose around another 5kg, and I’m determined to make this final push!

Before working with Craig, I didn’t have specific goals; I just knew I wanted to lose weight and become more confident in the gym which, with Craig’s help, I’ve achieved.

If someone was to ask you your thoughts about working with Craig, what would you say?

I enjoy working with Craig; he’s always so positive and encouraging.

He’s understanding and easy to talk to about any problems that I’ve faced along this journey. But he’s also a good laugh and a genuine person to have a conversation with, which helps when achieving personal goals.