Why I Became a Midlife Fitness Coach: My Journey to Purpose

Length of Read: ~6 minutes, 1,250 Words

Trading Meetings for Movement

There’s a familiar rhythm to weekdays— sitting at my desk day after day, back-to-back meetings, illuminated screens, the weight of documents and endless emails. While that routine brought its own comforts - it paid the bills and offers security - I felt increasingly out of sync with my true self. I was going through the motions, ticking boxes without that spark of genuine enthusiasm. Still, I found myself craving something more immediate and tangible—moments when I could see the results of my energy, in my own body and in the people I mentored.

The Heart of My Decision

On paper, adding fitness coaching to my schedule seemed entirely sensible. I’d always been fascinated by health and fitness, had spent evenings reading up on exercise programmes and nutrition, and had coached friends informally for years. Yet beneath that practical appeal was a deeper drive: I wanted to turn a lifelong passion into something more tangible - and to share the lessons I’d learned after decades of trial and error. I longed for the camaraderie of high energy group workouts and the exhilaration of celebrating personal breakthroughs. More than that, I recognised that staying active would anchor my well-being for the years ahead.

A Lifelong Passion for Fitness

Fitness isn’t a recent hobby for me - it’s been a constant companion since my teens. Back then, I was inspired by heroes like Stallone and Schwarzenegger. Later I devoured any books that promised to unlock greater knowledge like rehab science by Kelly Starrett, longevity research from Peter Attia, and Ross Edgley epic adventures. Over the years, I explored a wide range of activities: running to clear my mind, pushing my limits with high intensity circuits training, finding balance through yoga and stretching, and even learning martial arts. I challenged myself with obstacle course races like Tough Guy and cycling cross country across Iceland, and when business travel threatened to derail my fitness routine, I discovered streaming workouts like Insanity that kept me moving in hotel rooms. Even during lockdowns, I leaned into home-friendly routines and online classes to stay centred. Throughout every chapter of life - career changes, family milestones, minor injuries - I found that physical activity was the one constant I could rely on

My Sweet Spot: Bringing Business Skills to the Gym Floor

In professional settings, I thrived on coaching, mentoring, and guiding others to be the best version of themselves. I light up running high-energy, highly engaging workshops, especially around creativity. The buzz came from seeing people feel both stretched and supported, walking out with fresh ideas and fired-up confidence. And I love building strong, connected teams - bringing people together, creating a culture of trust, fun, and shared purpose.

That same energy now flows through my fitness sessions. I focus on building individuals and a community that celebrates progress, nurtures encouragement and embraces accountability. Those boardroom strengths—fostering teamwork, delivering engaging experiences, and guiding others to exceed their own expectations—translate seamlessly into every client conversation and fitness class.

Learning and Growing as a Fitness Coach

Formalising my passion and becoming a qualified fitness coach required more than enthusiasm; it demanded fresh study and real credentials. I revisited foundational principles, dug into anatomy, strength & conditioning science, and committed to a suite of certifications: Personal Training Level 3, Long-Term Conditions, Suspension Training methods, Anatomy of Stretching, Kettlebell Instruction, Nutrition and Weight management. Each qualification reawakened the thrill of being a novice, blending vulnerability with exhilaration. That learner’s mindset now supports a coaching style grounded in empathy and expertise.

Embracing the Journey

The greatest reward as a fitness coach comes from witnessing transformations - both in body and spirit - seeing a busy parent reclaim energy they thought was gone, helping someone conquer a movement they once feared, and celebrating every personal best.

While there’s a certain comfort in familiar routines and job title that’s instantly understood at social gatherings, I’ve gained something far richer: purpose, passion, and a community of like-minded individuals striving for healthier, more fulfilling lives.

If the idea of revitalising your own fitness journey appeals, consider starting small: try a new exercise, join a group session, notice how your body responds—and see where it takes you. Midlife may feel like a crossroads, but it’s also an invitation to rediscover what moves you.

Ready to explore what midlife fitness can do for you? Let’s take that first step together.