We’ve massively grown our all female personal training team in east London over the last 10+ years but one thing has remained constant – all our trainers are Level 3 qualified, down to earth, passionate and fun! In this blog, you’ll meet Terri, who joined KBPT in summer 2023.
How and why did you become a personal trainer?
Throughout my life, I’ve faced my fair share of struggles with structure and self-belief. The journey wasn’t always easy for me, as exploring new things would overwhelm me quite quickly. In 2015, I began my own fitness journey and it completely turned my life around – not just physically but personally too. Inspired by this positive shift, I decided to become a qualified personal trainer during the 2020 lockdown. Now, armed with these new skills, I’m eager to help others make similar positive changes in their lives and crush those fitness goals together!
When and why did you join KBPT?
I joined KBPT in June 2023. I felt this was the right business for me to work for as it aligns with my values. I know how intimidating it can be when you go to the gym for the first time and I understand that my clients want to feel like they’re in a safe space for personal training. With KBPT, I can work with my clients in the privacy of their own home or in private booths at GYMPODS in Dalston – having a comfortable space means we can focus better on our training! I also enjoy training clients outdoors as it allows us to connect with nature a little more and helps them to escape the four walls they might be stuck in all day.
What other jobs have you had?
Before I became a personal trainer, I worked in hospitality. I enjoyed the fast pace, attention to detail and providing top-tier customer service. Those skills have smoothly transferred into creating a supportive atmosphere for my PT clients. I’m thankful for everything I learned in hospitality!
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?Â
I obviously love training, especially when it’s aimed towards better function in everyday life and incorporates techniques like flexibility, mobility, strength and endurance. Outside of fitness, I have a passion for anything related to food – I’m quite the pizza snob! I’m also a new plant mum and have been learning to propagate my own leafy babies.
How do you personally like to keep fit?
I train my body in various ways, depending on how I’m feeling. If I’m having a low mood week, I’ll stick with low-impact mobility days. When I’m feeling on top form, I’ll smash out a heavy lifting session! I also enjoy training with friends, so I often take part in group fitness competition days and join running groups.
What’s your philosophy on health and fitness?
It’s about getting people to move more, with fewer aches and pains, and helping them to feel better within themselves. The goal is to help others boost their everyday functionality and mood through fun and positive training methods.
What inspires you (personally and professionally)?
Nothing inspires me more than witnessing someone who initially doubted themselves defy those doubts and crush their goals! It’s like watching someone conquer a fitness challenge they once thought impossible. The latest example that inspired me is when YouTuber Stephanie Joshi completed her first Ironman.
How do you keep your clients motivated?
I always prioritise communication and attentiveness. Listening to my clients’ needs and staying in tune with their energy levels and mood enables me to tailor our training sessions effectively, ensuring we maintain momentum without risking burnout. This approach will improve the chances of commitment and sustainability throughout your fitness journey.
What lessons have you learned as a personal trainer?
The best lesson I’ve learned on my fitness journey is that ‘A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step’ and that lesson extends far beyond fitness. I struggle a lot with perfectionism and wanting to do things perfectly on the first try, and if I’m not achieving that, I’ll avoid it. So, incorporating this mantra into my everyday life has helped me go easier on myself and to take it one step at a time.
Bonus question: What’s your go-to podcast, TV series or YouTube channel?
If you’re looking for science-based fitness information and tips, without getting bored out of your mind, I wholeheartedly recommend Natacha Océane. She has a positive and upbeat approach to exercise and is very knowledgeable.
Thanks Terri, it’s great to have you on board!Â
