FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What is clinical exercise?

• What is involved in the initial assessment and how long will it take?

• What is a body MOT?

• Where do the personal training sessions take place?

• How do I know I am getting the best exercise instruction for my condition?

• I have a medical condition that is not listed on the website, can I still train with you?

• How soon will I see results?

• How much does each session cost?

• Do I have to do a minimum number of sessions per week?

• Can I pay for a block of sessions at a reduced rate?

• Do I have to pay for a number of sessions in advance?

• Do you have a cancellation policy?

• What areas do you work in?

• What is your availability?

• What  qualifications and experience do you have?

• Are you on the Register of Exercise Professionals?

• What insurance do you have?

• What kind of exercise will I be doing?

• Can you advise me about nutrition?

• Can I share the session with my partner/friend/relative?

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What is involved in the initial assessment and how long will it take?

The initial assessment can take between 45 mins to an hour. We'll have an in-depth discussion about your health, nutrition and fitness and goals. If you are taking any medication please bring a list of these with you.

The assessment also includes a body MOT (see below)

Please wear clothes that you are comfortable to exercise in and have a small bottle of water to hand.

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What is a body MOT?

A body MOT takes baseline physical measurement including;

• Blood pressure

• Heart rate at rest

• Weight

• Waist, hip and upper arm measurements

• Body Mass Index

• Body fat measurement

• Hip to waist ratio

• Fitness assessment

All these measurement are optional, but can be motivational when looking back at the changes you’ve achieved. All the results will be explained to you and a copy will be sent to you after the consultation.

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Calculate if you need to lose weight

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Where do the personal training sessions take place?

For a lot of people exercising in a gym can be intimidating and expensive. These sessions take place wherever is most convenient for you;

• In the comfort of your own home. I can bring a selection of portable equipment.

• At your place of work. Making exercise fit into your working day.

• In the local park or outdoor space. Exercising outdoors has additional benefits and can really lift your mood. 

• You can come to me.  I have a small studio suitable for 1-2-1 training

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How do I know I am getting the best exercise instruction for my condition?

I have the highest fitness instructor qualification (level 4) and I'm continually updating my knowledge through seminars, training and reading. I have over 7 years experience of working to NHS standards and I continue to network with health professionals and follow the latest best practice guidelines. I have worked with hundreds of people with a range of conditions including people recovering from a heart attack or heart surgery, people recovering from cancer, people with chronic back pain, with learning disabilities, with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, mental health problems, diabetes, osteoporosis and people who are clinically obese. To see a full list of qualifications and experience please go to the 'About' section.

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I have a medical condition that is not listed on the website, can I still train with you?

Each person is taken on a case by case basis. I'm experienced and qualified to work with a range of people, including people referred by their GP. Please call to discuss your health condition and how the right physical activity and nutrition may be able to help.

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How soon will I see results?

Everyone is treated individually, so results can vary. The aim of all the sessions is enable and educate you about the right types of exercise and nutrition to achieve your goals. Typically it can take 12-15 weeks to change your activity and dietary habits, but you are likely to notice changes in your energy levels, sleep pattern and strength within 4-6 weeks.

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How much does  each session cost?

For charges please see the bookings page or call for the latest offers.

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Do I have to do a minimum number of sessions per week?

No, there is a flexible approach and you don’t need to book a minimum amount of sessions. However, availability is very limited so it is recommended that you book your sessions as far in advance as is possible. Depending on your goals and current levels of physical activity, a programme of once or twice a week may be recommended.

 

Can I pay for a block of sessions at a reduced rate?

Yes, this is possible. All block-booked sessions expire if not used within 4 months and unused sessions are non-refundable. Please discuss these rates at your consultation.

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What is a Clinical Exercise Specialist?

As a clinical exercise specialist I can help you manage a chronic condition, or other  health condition, so that you can live your life to the fullest. My skills go beyond that of a standard personal trainer. Using the latest research and professional standards I can design an exercise programme that is safe, effective and specific to your health needs. What's more, I continuously monitor your response to physical activity, both the short-term biological response and long-term effect. With the right instruction, clinical exercise  can halt the progression of certain diseases, such as Coronary Heart Disease or Osteoporosis.

 

I can liaise with your healthcare professional or GP to ensure that your healthcare is joined-up, as well as, give feedback on nutrition and support lifestyle modifications.

 

Do I have to pay for a number of sessions in advance?

No, there is no minimum amount of sessions you have to pay for in advance but bookings should be made at least 1 week in advance to ensure availability. A deposit may be required  to secure your place.

Payment must be made at least 24 hours in advance of each session.

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Do you have a cancellation policy?

Cancellations of appointments will not be charged providing you give a minimum of 24 hours’ notice via text or phone call.  Up to 100% of the appointment fee will be charged if less than 24 hours’ notice if given.

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What areas do you work?

I work in north east Hertfordshire, within a 15 mile radius of Stevenage. Please see area map and postcodes listed here, but if you don't see yours there don't worry! Get in touch to see if the service is available in your area.

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What is your availability?

Availability is limited. Please call, text or email to check if there are any slots available. Alternatively check the online booking form. I aim to respond within 24 hours.

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What  qualifications and experience do you have?

I have over 15 years experience of working with GPs, leading health charities and in hospital settings. My experience and qualifications include;

• British Association of Cardiac Rehabilitation instructor. Running classes in conjunction with University College Hospital and  community classes for Harefield hospital and St. Peter’s hospital

• Exercise referral instructor. Working with GPs and other health professionals to prescribe exercise for diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, clinical weight loss, mental wellbeing and osteoporosis. 

• Postural Stability Instructor. Providing an evidence- based progamme  to improve strength and balance for frailer older adults

• Pilates instructor, including Pilates for osteoporosis and experience of delivering the ‘bonewise’ programme at the Royal Free hospital

• Mental health specialist having set up an exercise referral pathway for GPs, worked with in-patients and community patients and at the charity Mind. 

• MSc in Nutrition, Exercise and Public Health

I have the highest level of fitness trainer qualification available (level 4) and this qualifies me to work with cardiac rehab patients, older people at risk of falls and people referred for exercise by their GP. Please see my profile page for more information.

Copies of key qualifications can be brought along to your initial assessment on request.

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Are you on the Register of Exercise Professionals?

Yes, my registration number is R0022836. Please visit their site for more details.

 

What insurance do you have?

 I have public indemnity insurance cover of  £10,000,000

 

What kind of exercise will I be doing?

This will really depend upon your exercise goals and current health. I'm qualified and experienced in delivering a range of exercises including Pilates, weight training, running, circuit training, chair-based exercise and exercise to music. I'll combine these elements to create the best programme for you.

 

Can you provide nutritional advice?

Yes, I have an MSc in nutrition, exercise and public health and can give general guidelines on healthy eating. I have written and delivered weight management courses to several different groups and individuals.  However, I am not a registered dietitian and therefore cannot provide detailed meal plans.

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Can I share the session with my partner/friend/relative?

Yes! Exercising with other people  can be fun and motivating and can work out cheaper too! Call for price details.

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