Announcing our new gym in Stroud

Written By James Hilton
James Hilton. Personal Trainer, Stroud

If you had asked me five years ago, ‘What will you be doing in 5 years?’ I don’t think I could have answered it accurately. However, I can be sure that the answer would never have been opening a gym in Stroud, where I spent most of my younger days.

In the beginning…

Bound to London for 15 years, determined to be ‘successful’ (let me know what that looks like exactly…) and ultimately becoming so miserable at work, something had to give. That low point gave me this unbelievable, unfathomable path that has led to an opening; I repeat it: a personal training studio in my hometown of Stroud, Gloucestershire! 

It’s remarkable; whilst I considered myself relatively driven, always doing well enough to get the subsequent pay rise and a step up into the next promotion, nothing compares to the type of drive I have discovered in myself these past four years. I believe inspiration drives motivation, and my clients, as well as my accomplishments, inspire me daily. 

Becoming a Personal Trainer

From making the decision to become a Personal Trainer, educating myself extensively (and continuously), finding my niche (training over 50’s, although not exclusively), defining my niche further into injury recovery and pain, creating an online platform designed to help people stay active into later life (Jim’s Gym), writing my own PT course aimed at helping other personal trainers train older adults with confidence whilst creating an unrivalled fitness experience, to opening my very own space where I can train my clients in a top of the range, functional, fitness space and professionally film my online fitness workouts for Jim’s Gym in a purpose-built studio (not to mention turning this space from a shell to a fully-fledged gym in 7 days between a full-time PT job and being a parent) - I’m tired (laughing emoji)

Opening HQ

I decided to get my own ‘headquarters’ to cement my vision for creating fitness experiences people will love, whether 1-1 training in person, online or through my virtual gym and community Jim’s Gym, I want to help as many people as I can be more active, especially entering into later life. Getting aches and pains and becoming less mobile as we age doesn’t have to be a given. The best bit is that it doesn’t take a lot to improve their physical abilities to make life more comfortable for most people. I want my clients to regain that spring in their step and be the envy of all their peers!   

I fully appreciate that personal training can be unaffordable for many; however, I will always endeavour to work within my client’s budget. I have tailored my offering to create a value proposition for everyone, whether with me directly or through online pre-recorded workouts. Please, at the very least, get in touch and say hi. It is always a pleasure to meet and speak with new people. You never know where a conversation may take you. And I must say, whilst anecdotal, these past four years have proved this to me. None of this would have been possible without meeting the many people, including the incredible and diverse group of clients I have met.

I must add thanks to unbelievably kind clients and online members across the board who have helped me not only with their supportive, encouraging words but, in several instances, with their professions to help secure the new space. They have also physically chipped in with help to get the gym ready by laying floors and even painting. 

About the process

While you’re here, here is a little about my training processes taught by Faster Function, my educator (the best in the business, no questions). I have two sweet spots: working with people who have never really ‘clicked’ with exercise and working with people struggling to overcome persistent pain or injuries. The client is at the centre of every decision I make. I carefully select each exercise, knowing it will help my client reach their goal as efficiently as possible and ensure that no time is wasted doing exercises that won’t get them where they want to be.

My first step with any client is to go beyond surface-level goals like "losing weight." I use a "Why, Why - So, So" approach to understand what's driving them. The driving force could be anything from improving health to boosting confidence. It's about finding what truly motivates them.

I closely observe my clients' reactions and responses in every session. Seeing how people react to certain situations or exercises helps me grasp their real triggers and motivations, ensuring that the training plan I develop is genuinely aligned with their personal goals.

I consider the whole picture - a client's lifestyle, medical history, and personal circumstances. This comprehensive view is crucial for identifying potential obstacles and customising my training approach. My methods are grounded in scientific research, drawing from reputable sources. 

By following these steps in my training approach, I'm not just focusing on physical exercises; I'm guiding you toward achieving deeply personal goals. This approach leads to more meaningful and lasting results, tailored specifically for each of my clients.

Book an appointment

Opening my new gym space has enabled five new personal training slots to become available throughout the week. Whether you're looking to kickstart your fitness journey with a bang or are curious how a tailored fitness plan can benefit you, I'm here to help.

Feel free to get in touch, or better yet, drop by for a coffee and a chat. It's always a pleasure to connect and share how we can work together towards your health and fitness goals.

You’re always welcome here.

‘What’s next?’ I hear you say, don’t you worry. There is plenty more to come in the New Year! 

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