Sharon’s Journey: From Self-Doubt to Strength
Before working with me, Sharon felt stuck. She wasn’t unhappy, but she was frustrated—overweight, self-conscious, and struggling to find a fitness routine that actually worked for her. She’d tried going to the gym and following diets like Weight Watchers, but nothing ever seemed to stick. She’d start strong, only to end up back at square one, feeling like she was going in circles.
When we started working together, my goal was to change that. Instead of throwing her into another cookie-cutter plan, we built a programme tailored to her—her fitness level, her comfort zone, and what she actually enjoyed. No drastic changes, no impossible routines—just a plan she could stick to and progress with.
That’s not to say it was always easy. Like anyone on a fitness journey, Sharon had moments of doubt. Some days, motivation dipped. Friends and family even questioned why she was investing in a personal trainer. But she stuck with it. She focused on her goals, trusted the process, and kept pushing forward.
Over time, everything started to shift. Sharon became stronger, more confident, and, for the first time, actually enjoyed training. Exercise wasn’t just about losing weight anymore—it was about feeling good, both physically and mentally.
Now, she’s in a completely different place. More motivated, more positive, and finally in control of her health and fitness. And the best part? She’s built something sustainable—no more yo-yo dieting, no more starting over. Just steady, real progress that lasts.
If you’re feeling stuck, doubting whether fitness will ever click for you, Sharon’s story is proof that it can. With the right guidance and a plan that works for you, real change is possible.
Stats
Age - 47
Occupation - Freight Officer
Training with Mark - 9 years
Service used - 1-2-1 personal training and online coaching
Favourite movie - Dirty Dancing
Random fact - I can’t eat peas unless theres a load of ketchup on them
Personal Challenges
Low confidence in and out of the gym
Being inconsistant and never being able to stick to something
Feeling week and not able to have the ability to do daily things
Strategies used to overcome challenges
Tailored workouts to suit her fitness level, age, and comfort zone that build.
Building confidence gradually focusing on small, achievable wins to boost self-belief.
Accountability and support to keep her on track
Mindset shift helping stop seeing fitness as just about weight loss and started focusing on feeling good.
Memorable moments
Cleaning 20kg kettlebells and snatching a 16kg
First big confidence boost realising she could lift heavier and move better than she ever thought possible.
Breaking bad habits feeling proud when she naturally started making healthier choices without forcing it.
The ‘aha’ moment, when she stopped dreading workouts and actually started looking forward to them.
Overcoming self-doubt, the first time she walked into the gym without feeling out of place or unsure of what to do.
FAQ’s Answered by Sharon
How did you feel about yourself/weight/person etc. before working with Mark? What sort person were you?
Before working with Mark, I was fairly happy in myself, but I was also overweight and quite self-conscious. I often felt uncomfortable in my own skin and lacked the confidence to push myself when it came to fitness.
What did you try in the past to solve that problem before using Mark?
I had tried going to the gym on my own and even joined Weight Watchers to help with my diet. While both helped in some ways, I struggled to stay consistent and never really felt like I was making lasting progress.
Why did you choose Mark to help you achieve your health and fitness goals?
I had seen Mark working in the gym at Nuffield and had heard really positive feedback about him. He always seemed approachable, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in helping people, so I felt confident that he’d be the right person to support me.
How is/was working with Mark different from what you had previously tried?
The biggest difference was that Mark tailored everything to suit me—my fitness level, my age, and my personal comfort zone. I never felt overwhelmed or out of my depth, but at the same time, he pushed me just enough to see real progress. Unlike my past experiences, this wasn’t just about following a generic workout plan; it was designed around me, which made all the difference.
What problems have you overcome since working with Mark? Could be nutritional, injuries, habits, confidence, weight loss etc.
My unhealthy habits have improved massively, my confidence has grown, and I feel physically stronger than I ever have before. I no longer second-guess myself in the gym, and I actually enjoy the process rather than seeing it as a chore.
After working with Mark how do you feel now? Do you feel different? Describe the person you are now.
I feel so much more motivated and positive about myself and my fitness. I no longer dread workouts—I actually look forward to them! I’m in a much better mindset, and I’ve realised that looking after my body isn’t just about losing weight; it’s about feeling good, both mentally and physically.
What advice would you give someone that is 'on the fence' about using a coach to help them achieve their goals?
I know that personal training can be a big commitment, and I’ve had plenty of friends and family question why I pay for it. But at the end of the day, it’s about what makes you feel good. If working with a coach gets you out of bed in the morning, keeps you accountable, and makes you feel amazing after every session, then it’s 100% worth it. Mark is a fantastic motivator, and he genuinely works around your lifestyle to make things as easy and enjoyable as possible. If you're unsure, just give it a go—you won’t regret it!