Stacey’s Story: From Struggles to Self-Belief

Stacey came to me at a point where she felt stuck. She had been trying for years to find a fitness routine that worked, but nothing ever seemed to click. Life’s demands—work, family, and everything in between—always seemed to get in the way, and she was left feeling frustrated and unsure if she could ever make real, lasting progress. Stacey wasn’t just looking to improve her fitness—she wanted to regain confidence in herself and her abilities.

When we began working together, we started by setting realistic goals that fit into Stacey’s busy life. It wasn’t about making drastic changes overnight but rather about building a plan that was sustainable, balanced, and tailored to her specific needs. We focused on small, manageable steps that would create momentum and give Stacey the structure and consistency she needed.

At first, it wasn’t easy. Like many, Stacey faced the challenge of juggling her responsibilities while trying to stick to her plan. There were days when it felt overwhelming, and times when she questioned whether she could keep going. But Stacey’s determination set her apart. Even on tough days, she stayed committed to her goals and trusted the process, knowing that progress would come with time.

As the weeks went on, Stacey’s persistence paid off. She became stronger, more energized, and started to see the results she had been chasing for so long. But the most profound change wasn’t just physical—it was her mindset. Stacey began to believe in herself again. She realized that she was capable of so much more than she had given herself credit for, and that shift in confidence fueled her even further.

Now, Stacey has not only achieved the fitness goals she once thought were out of reach, but she’s also gained a new sense of self-belief. She’s more confident, resilient, and empowered in both her fitness and her life. Stacey’s journey shows that no matter how many times you’ve tried and felt like giving up, it’s possible to turn things around with the right support and a plan that works for you.

If you can relate to Stacey’s story—feeling overwhelmed by life and unsure if change is possible—her transformation is proof that you can regain control and reach your goals with the right approach and a commitment to your journey.

Stats

  • Age - 35

  • Occupation - Police Officer

  • Training with Mark - 8 years

  • Service used - 1-2-1 personal training and online nutrition coaching

  • Favourite movie - Chasing Mavericks

  • Random fact - Can blow bubbles off her tongue

Personal Challenges

  • Being hyper mobile resulting in painful hips and shoulders

  • 6 stone overweight

  • Not ever being constant with healthy eating

  • Having an all or nothing mindset

  • Being able to run without pain in her joints

Strategies used to overcome challenges

  • Designing a resistance programme that helped strengthen her joints and become more stable

  • 3 phase fat loss programme was used to strip fat away until she was happy with her results

  • Gave her guidance and tailored her nutrition to her needs through nutrition coaching

  • Spent time helping her realise consistency is the key not an all or nothing approach

  • A resistance training programme that made her bulletproof and slowly progressed her running time.

Memorable moments

  • Losing 6 stone and dropping 10% body fat

  • Staying injury free for well over 3 years

  • Deadlifting 100kg

  • Completing her first full press-up

  • Being able to run without pain

  • Feeling better in herself and not being too hard on herself

  • Being consistent with her eating

FAQ’s Answered by Stace

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

I felt depressed, I had no confidence, not only with my body/clothes but with people. I had no motivation and no purpose.

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

I tried going to the gym on my own and doing random things hoping it'll work

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

Because I saw him in my gym and he looked well buff 😜 so thought well... if he looks like that he must be good. And he looked friendly!!

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

I could write for hours about this question! Mark is patient and understanding, and there’s always something new. I never ‘enjoyed’ working out until I trained with Mark. He also listened to me.

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

For a start. He’s helped turn my life around with confidence and I am happy. I feel like I am doing well at something and he keeps me motivated and I strive for better (not just fitness!) I’ve lost 6 stone since I started with Mark. I have a condition which can make working out hard and Mark is understanding.

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

I am a completely different person. Physically and mentally!! In every way possible. He is an incredible PT and life coach!!!!

 
Stacy before and after
 

"He listens and actually cares, and has filled me with so much confidence because he believed in my potential. Mark’s 24/7 support is second to non, he not only helps in session he’s always on hand to offer advice. You can tell he loves his job and cares, not just to earn the money, that really shines through!"