Client Spotlight: Ashley Hawkes

From Plateau to Progress

Ashley came to training feeling stuck. He wasn’t new to the gym, but progress had stalled, energy was inconsistent, and confidence was quietly slipping. Like many people, he knew something needed to change — but wasn’t sure whether personal training would actually help or just add pressure.

What follows isn’t a dramatic “before and after” story. It’s a more honest one: learning how to train properly, building consistency without burnout, and developing the confidence that comes from understanding what you’re doing — and why.

Before we started working together, what were your main concerns or hesitations about personal training?

“I was honestly a bit stuck. I’d worked out before, but I wasn’t seeing the results I expected — especially in terms of strength and energy. I worried that personal training might be intimidating or that I’d feel judged for where I was starting. At the same time, I knew I needed structure and accountability. I just wasn’t sure if personal training was the right move, or if it would finally be the thing that helped me break through that plateau.”

You don’t need to feel ready to begin

Feeling unsure, plateaued, or lacking clarity is often the exact point where good coaching helps most.

You can start without confidence — structure and skill are built along the way.

Building Confidence Early On: What helped you feel more comfortable and confident in the early sessions?

“I felt more comfortable early on because the sessions were structured but flexible, and I never felt judged for asking questions or needing to slow things down. Seeing small wins — like improved core control or better form — gave me confidence quickly. It really clicked when I started noticing progress outside the gym too: better energy, more awareness of my body, and the sense that this was something I could actually stick with long term.”

Training That Adapts: How did the personalised and flexible nature of your training plan affect your progress?

“Having a plan that was personalised — and then adjusted week to week — helped me build momentum instead of hitting plateaus. It took the guesswork out of training and made me trust the process. I wasn’t forcing progress or holding back unnecessarily; the balance felt right. Over time, that flexibility helped me get stronger, improve my technique, and stay motivated because the plan was clearly working for me.”

Beyond Physical Results: What changes have you noticed physically, mentally, and in day-to-day life?

“Committing to training has improved how I feel about myself overall. I’m more disciplined, more consistent, and more confident in my decisions — both in and out of the gym. Training has become something grounding rather than draining, and that mindset shift has had a real impact on my mood, motivation, and daily routine.”

Advice for Anyone on the Fence: What would you say to someone who feels unsure about starting personal training?

“If you’re hesitant, you’re probably exactly the kind of person personal training helps most. Having guidance takes the pressure and guesswork out of training and gives you accountability without judgement. You don’t have to know what you’re doing — that’s the whole point. The hardest part is starting, and once you do, you realise it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself.”

Clarity comes before commitment

Good coaching removes guesswork and creates progress you can trust, starting with an honest conversation.

If you’re considering training and want to see whether it’s the right fit, get in touch — a short chat is often enough to bring things into focus.