In September 2020 I had decided enough was enough.  I was in bad shape - exhausted and run down.  Two kids, full time (desk) job, lockdown, too much wine and chocolate and getting a bit too comfortable with the middle age spread– you get the picture. 

​

I had always dabbled in some form of exercise or other but I was never that consistent, always stuck within my comfort zone and always fell off the bandwagon. I was caught in this vicious circle where I would have to start all over again, becoming more and more disheartened with each attempt.  Similarly on the eating front, I have attempted many different types of ‘diets’ or ways of eating to try and improve my health including keto, paleo, intermittent fasting and juice detoxes. I have tried them all; they all worked for a while and none were sustainable in the end. So that was me, Mrs two steps forward, one step back  for as long as I can remember.  

I should also mention at this juncture (and because this would only be a half story if I didn’t) that I have been on and off some form of anti-depressant medication for the last 20 years. Little did I know that, the prolonged use of any medication has significant effects on the body and, as a result, my progress was going to be a bit bumpier.  

​

I am going to be honest, after the first few weeks with Stephen I didn’t think it was for me.  It was a complete shock to my sluggish dysfunctional system.  I didn’t disclose my full background to Stephen at the outset but I think he sensed I was struggling a bit.  ‘Strong body, strong mind’ he said in passing when I was lying on the ground trying to recover from a conditioning session.  ‘This can’t be good for you,’ I replied (joking, not joking!)

I wasn’t aware but Stephen was consistently adapting my programme to try and get me over my mental hurdles. I stuck it out; I told Stephen how I was feeling and that I thought I wasn’t able for the sessions.  He gave me invaluable advice on nutrition, the way different foods affects your body and mood and foods to eat for hormonal imbalances etc. I sorted my eating habits in a way that is sustainable for me (I still eat sweet treats and drink alcohol), I don’t count calories or macros.  The weeks passed by and I took off like a greyhound out of a trap.  

It also made it easier to know that Stephen trains himself in a similar way. The fact that I know he trains so hard in his own right, and lives his life the way he recommends, means he is authentic and does not come across as someone who is preaching or selling snake oil. 

​

I feel myself getting stronger and have way more energy. I am more conscious about being active and think I have definitely changed my habits for the better. Don’t get me wrong, the sessions are still tough but everything outside the gym is now easier. It puts everything into perspective and has provided me with a foundation that I know I can get over anything life throws at me. 

I’m so grateful for Stephen for helping me.  He is one of the most genuine people I know and he always has his clients’ best interests at heart.  I’m sure he could make more money doing something else but this is his true passion and it shows in his results. He is an elite athlete and an elite person.