What happens at a free consultation, and how to get the most from it

If you live with a sore knee, shoulder, hip or back, the idea of personal training can feel daunting. Will it hurt? Will you be pushed too hard? Is it even right for you? That is exactly what the free consultation is for. Here is what to expect.

A conversation first

The consultation starts with a chat. Nathan will ask about your pain: where it is, when it started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your day. He’ll also ask about any injuries or operations you’ve had, any treatment you’re having now, and what you would like to get back to doing.

That last part matters most. “Less pain” is a good start, but “walking up the hill to the shops without stopping” or “lifting my grandson without worrying about my back” gives the training a clear target.

A look at how you move

Next comes a simple movement check. Nothing strenuous: things like standing up from a chair, a gentle squat, reaching overhead or balancing on one leg, depending on where your pain is. The aim is to see what feels fine, what is uncomfortable, and where the safest starting point is.

You will never be asked to push through pain. If something hurts, say so and it stops there. That information is useful in itself.

An honest answer

By the end you’ll know whether training is a good fit for you right now. If anything suggests you should see a GP or physio first, Nathan will tell you. If training is right, he’ll explain how he would approach it and how a training block would work for you.

There is no obligation and no pressure to sign up on the day. Plenty of people like to go away and think about it, and that is fine.

How to get the most from it

• Write down your questions. It’s easy to forget them on the day.
• Bring any exercises or advice you’ve been given by a physio, consultant or GP.
• Think about your goals. What would you like to be able to do in three months’ time?
• Wear comfortable clothes you can move in, and trainers.
• Be honest about your pain. The more we know, the better the plan.

What happens next

If you decide to go ahead, you choose a training block and pay for it securely online. Nathan will then be in touch to arrange your sessions, and your plan starts from where you are, not from where a programme says you should be.

Booking takes a couple of minutes. Pick a time that suits you on our booking page and Nathan will confirm it by email.