Vanessa Barker

About

I first started working in fitness in 2003 when I qualified as a gym instructor while studying English at university. Not the most useful degree for my career path, but hey, do what you enjoy, and I love a good book, in particular historical fiction. Get in touch if you have any recommendations!

Since then I’ve been lucky enough to work with a range of clients, and have even taught and assessed other fitness professionals gaining their qualifications. After having 2 children of my own though I have focussed on helping other mums with their postnatal recovery and return to fitness. Even as a personal trainer, and loving exercise, I found this a difficult time, so I’m passionate about helping other mums get the most from their time spent exercising.

When you train with me I will spend time with you before doing any exercise ensuring I understand your wants, needs, health and goals.

I will work with you to agree an exercise programme, as well as lifestyle and nutritional changes, that suit your life.

You can train as often as you want to with me and we will ensure that you have a plan for in between sessions.

We will measure your progress through the best and most appropriate health and fitness tests for you.

You will get support in between sessions via text and email to keep you on track and motivated.

You won’t have to follow a restrictive diet, just focus on developing a healthy relationship to food and good habits that can be maintained long term.

You will not have to do any exercises you don’t want to do. It’s not about hammering you as hard as I can. Sometimes you’ll work hard, but the intensity will depend on your goals, preferences and current fitness levels.

You will be given a plan that’s realistic for YOU. There’s no point me giving you an exercise routine that you won’t be able to stick to, and I know how hard it can be, as a mum, to find the time and motivation to take care of yourself. Together we can discuss the best route to your goal, be it weight loss, post natal recovery, or getting fitter and stronger.