Gary’s Story: From Struggles to Strength

Gary’s journey with fitness was marked by frustration. He had been trying to make lasting changes for years, but no matter what approach he took, the results never seemed to stick. Feeling tired, out of shape, and unsure of how to break the cycle, Gary came to me looking for more than just a fitness plan—he needed a solution that would truly work for him.

When we first started working together, it was clear that Gary’s biggest struggle wasn’t a lack of effort—it was a lack of direction. He was putting in the work, but without a clear plan tailored to his needs, the progress was slow and disheartening. Our first priority was to create a customized plan that would meet Gary where he was and help him move forward step by step.

From day one, the focus wasn’t just on exercise—it was about building the right habits. We worked on consistency, balance, and a routine that Gary could realistically stick to. There were no shortcuts, no extreme measures—just a sustainable approach that fit his lifestyle.

As expected, there were challenges along the way. Some days, life got busy, and the motivation wasn’t always there. But what set Gary apart was his perseverance. Even when things got tough, he stayed committed to the process, understanding that real change doesn’t happen overnight. Slowly but surely, the progress came. He got stronger, fitter, and more energized, but more importantly, he regained his confidence.

Gary’s transformation wasn’t just about losing weight or building muscle—it was about reclaiming control over his health. He started to see fitness not as a chore but as a vital part of his life. With each small win, his confidence grew, and soon enough, the changes became undeniable. He wasn’t just feeling better physically; he was more positive, more focused, and more driven in every aspect of his life.

Today, Gary is in the best shape of his life, both mentally and physically. His story shows that no matter how many times you’ve tried and felt stuck, it’s never too late to make a real change. With the right plan, the right support, and a commitment to the process, you can achieve the results you’ve been looking for.

If you’re like Gary—feeling frustrated and unsure if anything will work—his journey proves that lasting change is possible when you have the right approach tailored specifically to you.

Stats

  • Age - 42

  • Occupation - Fire Service Commander

  • Training with Mark - Over 5 years now

  • Service used - Personal training

  • Favourite movie - Bridget jones diary

  • Random fact - Nearly turned Pro Golfer at 20

Personal Challenges

  • Being very sedentry and working in an office job/on the road

  • Gets bored very quickly

  • Lower back isseus due to travelling for work

  • Upper body postural issues due to job

Strategies used to overcome challenges

  • Gave him a programme that changed just at the right time so he never got bored

  • Designing a programme that increases his muscle mass in all the right places

  • Constant guidance and support to keep him motivated

  • Intelligent exercise selection which included core and postural work

  • Ensured his programme consisted of his favourite exercies to keep his enjoyment up

Memorable moments

  • Being able to perform pull-ups with 20kg weights attached to him

  • Improving his confidence in and out of the gym

  • Going from chicken legs to a set of pins his wife loves

  • Deadlifting over 130kg and bench pressing over 100kg

  • Having to change his wardrobe due to clothes being too tight in places 💪

FAQ’s Answered by Gary

How did you feel about yourself/weight/person etc. before working with Mark? What sort person were you?

Not to bad, but would find lots of excuses not to train. I was getting a bit overweight and felt unfit. Some denial about it I guess, but would always be too busy.

What did you try in the past to solve that problem before using Mark?

Simple. lift heavy quickly and get big...... If only that worked...... I don’t have much patience so I was always very stop start with gym memberships. Plus I  never trained legs because that was just crazy to me 🤪 Why would you do that 😜 Now I know.

Why did you choose Mark to help you achieve your health and fitness goals?

Because of his years of experience and realism towards my goals. He doesn’t tell you what you want to hear - he tells you how it is. Everything is very bespoke to each individual and monitored.

How is/was working with Mark different from what you had previously tried?

Most PTs I’ve used in the past seem to go through the motions and repeat the same stuff every week. With Mark, every workout is varied and it’s all about moving with weights and not just picking them up and down again.

What problems have you overcome since working with Mark? Could be nutritional, injuries, habits, confidence, weight loss etc.

I now have a fairly decent pair of legs 👌. Well my wife thinks so ☺️ My posture is much better and I feel stronger too. I eat so better and feel more in tune with my body’s needs.

After working with Mark how do you feel now? Do you feel different? Describe the person you are now.

Certainly more confident. Not afraid to take my t-shirt off down the beach. I feel stronger and fitter which helps having 2 young sons to chase around.