During September 2006 I sustained a bulging disk in my lower back. At the time I was 44 years old and overweight at 17st 7lbs. I was also very unfit due to doing minimal exercise. After a year of physiotherapy and massage I began doing a few regular exercises, primarily to strengthen my back. During this year I managed to lose 3st and it was suggested to me that I join a gym, take more regular exercise and contact Jim.

Not having done anything like this previously, I was extremely nervous about what to expect. However, on meeting Jim I was quickly put at ease and confidently took my initial fitness consultation. We discussed what I wanted to achieve in our sessions and what he thought I needed to do. We agreed to begin a programme focusing on core conditioning and overall muscle toning to aid my ongoing weight loss.

Together we developed a programme to achieve this, which involved one-to-one, personally tailored sessions at the gym, self-led exercises I could do at home and fitness advice aimed at leading a more healthy life. I have been working with Jim for 15 months and have managed to lose a further 3st 8lbs. I work with him once a month and look forward to my sessions now, in contrast to when I first started.

I feel this change is wholly due to Jim’s encouragement and enthusiasm, together with his varied and enjoyable sessions. Jim is professional and at the same time manages to put people at ease and is good company. He shows full commitment to his clients at all times.

My whole experience since my injury, and particularly my work with Jim, has changed my view on exercise and dieting. Jim has always preached “you only get out what you put in” and I know from experience that he is absolutely right. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but over the last 15 months I have seen a drastic change, both physically and mentally.

I hope to continue my training sessions with Jim for as long as I can and confidently recommend him as a trainer.

School Catering Manager, female,47.