Fifty years of age and approaching 16 stone was a call to action. Toiling in the heat on the long climbs on my annual cycling trip in Andalucia with my pals off in the distance in 2013 is not my idea of fun. A DIY training programme with a ridiculously under utilised membership at an Ealing Leisure Centre was not cutting it. Cue West London Fitness and professional sportsman and personal trainer Karl Gibson.

I met with Karl in January 2014. I told him what I wanted. More leg power and endurance, a stronger core and, of course, less weight. I was heading for the Alps in June and I wanted to do be able to enjoy the trip and get over those big Tour de France Cols. I wanted to enjoy not endure. Karl is not a cyclist but he is certainly expert in training techniques and how to motivate and challenge you to get results. Starting with two sessions a week, Karl worked on the basics, using different pieces of equipment in combination to challenge me physically and to stretch my training comfort zones. I was introduced to my new “friends” the Kettle bell, the Bulgarian bag and the Battle rope to name just a few. Karl tuned into my competitive nature and sense of humor which made training enjoyable. There have been some tough sessions along the way however, it has been worth it as results came more quickly than I had expected and improvement continues today. The small and well equipped gym located at Ealing Rugby club is a friendly and fun place to train. Karl and fellow Personal Trainer Jamie Lea work hard to make sure it is for every client.

So, as I approach my 100th personal training session, I realise just how much I have achieved. Personal training is part of my weekly schedule and apart from improving my cycling; I can ride up those big mountain cols, I have also reaped the benefits of regular, purposeful exercise in managing the stresses of a busy life at work and at home. My teenage children think dad is in good shape too. Is Personal Training at West London Fitness worth the money? Would I recommend them? You bet!