FAQ

General

1. What makes you different from other Trainers?

I don’t want to share my whole story here, but my journey is what makes me different. You see me on Instagram confident and talking in front of people, but that hasn’t always been the case.

I once had extremely low self-esteem and struggled to even look in the mirror. Because of this, I really understand how it feels to be uncomfortable in your own body. I can adapt sessions depending on your mood or how you’re feeling that day – whether it’s life stresses or where you are in your monthly cycle.

I have many years of experience working with women, and I bring my own journey and experiences to every session. My reviews and testimonials speak for themselves. I work with empathy, knowledge, and flexibility to make each session right for you.

2. Its says you are a vitality coach. Does this mean you only do mindset?

No, not at all. I call myself a vitality coach because I’m not just a Pilates instructor, personal trainer, or nutritionist. I bring all of these areas together to support you.

Along the way, there may be tasks to create new habits, which involve mindset work, but I work with everyone from mums recovering after having a baby, to those getting moving, to Pilates for rehabilitation, to strong athletes competing.

3. I am scared of going to the gym. How will training help ease these fears?

Many people feel nervous about the gym at first, and that is completely normal. I understand this because I have been training for many years.

I always take time to find out a few things before we start so I am aware of any issues or exercises that may feel difficult. We start slowly and progress at a pace that suits you, building your confidence over time. There’s no point in throwing you in at the deep end – I want you to feel confident and excited to come to the gym, not anxious.

4. Can you incorporate some Pilates exercises in to my sessions to build my core strength?

Yes, definitely. I am trained in Pilates and often incorporate a lot of Pilates-style exercises into sessions to help support your strength training. I find the two combined really help.

I also offer one-to-one Pilates sessions and run a weekly class in a studio with a maximum of 10 participants. These are options if you want to add extra sessions or a group environment.

5. How much do you charge? Is there a deal or plan that would make it doable while on maternity leave?

Personal training sessions are £30 an hour. Pilates and other services depend on what is involved. I offer packages and block bookings to make regular training more affordable.

Payment is made at booking, and there is a 12 hour cancellation policy. I am reasonable and understand if things crop up, especially with children being ill. We can reschedule and make it work for both of us.

6. I really feel I cant go to the gym. Are you able to train me in my home?

Yes! I work across the community in gyms, homes, and studios. If it works with my schedule and you are local to Minehead, I can come and train you at home.

For Pilates, you need no equipment. For strength training, a few dumbbells or kettlebells are helpful. If your goal is just to get moving, we can start with bodyweight exercises at home.

7. I see you have Buggy Fitness sessions. What is this?

I love my Buggy Fitness sessions! They run Friday mornings at 9:15, starting from the Beach Hotel in Minehead on the seafront. We meet weekly depending on the weather. If it rains, we meet inside the Beach Hotel for a chat, tea, coffee, or even cake.

This is for mums, dads, grandparents, and carers. You don’t even have to exercise – you can just join the group.

Buggy Fitness was designed as a community initiative to get people moving and stop isolation. We use the parks, seafront, or harbour depending on the weather. There are light stretches, sometimes extra exercises, or just walking. The conversations and support are amazing, making this a safe and lovely group. This is free of charge and a perfect entry into any of my services.

Getting Started & Sessions

1. How long are your sessions and can you be flexible with my schedule?

My sessions are usually 45 to 60 minutes, but I understand that life can be unpredictable. I try to be as flexible as possible and can offer sessions that fit around your schedule, including shorter sessions if needed.

2. How many sessions a week would you recommend to see a changes?

I really highly recommend two to three sessions per week, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to come to see me two to three times a week. Yes, that would be ideal in a perfect world, but this isn’t always feasible.

If you are having one session a week, I can provide training plans for the rest of the week that you can work around your financial and family needs.

3. How long should I sign up for?

The key is just getting moving and being consistent. I recommend signing up for a minimum of three months to really see results.

The number of sessions per week depends on your work, family life, and finances. Ideally, two to three sessions a week is perfect, with other days being active – walking, getting outside, or enjoying fresh air.

If three months is not feasible, you can book sessions with me and I will provide plans for you to do on your own. The most important thing is consistency and making exercise part of your lifestyle.

Personalisation & Approach

1. Can you adapt training depending on any specific goals I have?

Absolutely. Every program I design is personal and tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and current fitness level. Whether your focus is regaining strength, improving fitness, losing weight, gaining confidence, or just feeling healthier, your sessions will be designed specifically for you.

2. Why is going to the Gym not enough?

Going to the gym is great for getting started, and many people think this is enough. But the bigger picture is important.

Just going to the gym and cutting calories will not give you the results you want and can even be detrimental. We need to consider gut health, hormones, sleep, mindset, and lifestyle factors. The goal is to create a sustainable plan that works for you, your family, and your work commitments.

3. Is there a shorter reset programme for Holiday Makers?

It depends how we define “holiday makers.” If you’re visiting family or on a short stay, you can come and see me for an assessment. I will build a personalised plan for you to take home or to start your journey, check your form to ensure it is safe, and tailor it to your needs and abilities.

We can also stay in contact through Zoom calls and work online together if you wish, so you continue making progress even after you leave.

If the goal is to get ready for a holiday quickly, the truth is there is no quick fix – it requires hard work and a stricter nutrition plan. I do not usually promote this approach, but I understand that sometimes it is necessary.

Pre & Post Natal

1. How long after having a baby can I start Training? (Vaginal & C-Section)

It depends on how your body has recovered and whether you have had medical clearance. After a vaginal birth, many women can start gentle movement and rehabilitation exercises around 4 to 6 weeks once cleared by their doctor or midwife. After a C-section, recovery usually takes longer, around 8 to 12 weeks. When we start, sessions focus on rebuilding your core, posture, and overall strength gradually and safely.

2. Can I train while Pregnant?

In many cases, yes. Exercise during pregnancy can be very beneficial as long as it’s done safely and you’ve had medical clearance. Training would be adjusted to ensure it’s appropriate and comfortable for each stage, focusing on strength, mobility, posture, and safe movement.

Menopause

1. I’m really struggling through the menopause and I really don’t like what’s happening to my body. How can you help?

I truly understand. Menopause can be really difficult, and it can feel overwhelming to see your body changing. I didn’t fully understand this until I went through it myself.

I am updating my knowledge through my own experience and professional training because I want to support women to continue feeling good about themselves.

Ladies, please don’t just do lots of cardio during or before menopause. Strength training is essential. It won’t make you big or bulky, but it helps you feel strong, confident, and in control.

There’s a lot to cover, so PM me if you want to chat in more detail – I have lots of tips and advice.

2. I am menopausal – can I get fit again?

Absolutely. I fully understand how overwhelming menopause can be. I thought I had prepared for it, but the changes to my body really surprised me.

You can feel strong, healthy, and confident again. It’s about understanding your body and working with your needs. The key is strength training – lifting weights will not make you bulky, but it helps maintain muscle, metabolism, and overall wellbeing. I am always updating my knowledge to provide the best guidance for women during this stage of life.

Nutrition & Dieting

1. Do you do nutritional or diet advice as well?

Yes, I can provide general Nutrition guidance to support your training and working towards your goal. If you want more in-depth meal plans, this is an additional bespoke package, and the results are completely worth it.

I work in a sustainable way unless you have a very specific goal. If we have a short time to work, we can do stricter plans, but I don’t generally like doing that.

2. Do I have to eat really strict if a choose nutrition package with you?

No, not at all. I like to work on sustainable changes that fit with you and your family. There’s nothing worse than juggling a busy life and extreme diet plans. We make small tweaks to your current habits week by week.

Meal prep is key, but doesn’t mean a whole day in the kitchen. Cook one meal and double it, freeze the extra – simple!

It depends on your goal. If you only have six weeks to get in shape, the plan will be stricter. The focus is always on learning what works for your body, what fuels you, and gives you energy. Food is fuel, and I want you to enjoy it.

3. Do I need to go on a strict diet when training?

No, not necessarily. My aim is to provide sustainable nutrition that supports your digestive system, energy levels, and overall wellbeing.

A successful plan relies on good communication so I can understand your needs and help you get results more efficiently. I am always available to support you and answer questions. Together, we look at what you are eating and make adjustments that work for you, your lifestyle, and your journey – without unnecessary stress or strict rules.

Injuries, Health & Wellbeing

1. If I feel weak or sore in a particular area, will you still be able to train me and adapt the exercise?

Yes, absolutely. Sometimes we pick up little injuries. That doesn’t mean we can’t train. We just need to adapt and work around it. Often stopping training altogether because of an injury can be the worst thing, but with good communication and my knowledge, we can work around it.

2. Can fitness help improve my mental health?

Absolutely. Exercise played a huge role in helping me manage my own mental health. We all have ups and downs, and anxiety can feel overwhelming.

One tip I always use is to start your day by getting out and moving in the fresh air. Even on days when you feel awful, this sets you up for the day. Exercise is essential for improving mood, reducing stress, and boosting overall wellbeing.