“I started working with Joel the PT about six weeks back after pretty much avoiding the gym for like 10 years. I really needed a refresher on all the equipment and had some nagging lower back pain.
Joel’s been super helpful, tailoring the sessions to get me comfortable with the machines again and easing up my back. He’s friendly, knows his stuff, and honestly just a really good trainer. Definitely recommend him if you’re looking for someone down to earth!”
Returning to the gym after a long break can feel intimidating especially when confidence is low and old aches or injuries linger in the background. For many people, the first step isn’t about pushing hard; it’s about rebuilding trust in their body, learning how to use equipment safely, and rediscovering a sense of comfort in the training environment.
This client came back after nearly a decade away from the gym, looking for guidance, reassurance, and a way to ease persistent lower back discomfort while regaining confidence with the machines. To support this, sessions began with mobility work and thoracic spine stretching to relieve tension and restore movement through the upper back and shoulders, then the glutes, areas that often contribute to lower back strain when restricted.
From there, we introduced a gradual return to load-bearing exercises, focusing on controlled movement, core stability, and posture. This progressive approach allowed the body to loosen, strengthen, and move more freely while reducing discomfort and building confidence at every stage – ultimately bringing about a better quality of movement in everyday life.
If you’ve been away from training, dealing with aches, or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. With the right guidance, a structured approach, and a pace tailored to you, it’s possible to rebuild strength, move without discomfort, and feel confident in the gym again. Get in touch to begin your return to training safely and confidently.