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Working with Danielle was one of those experiences that quietly reminds me why I do what I do. Danielle runs Elite Coaching and already had a strong, established coaching practice. She wasn’t coming into this Menopause qualification unsure or inexperienced, she came into it thoughtful, reflective, and very clear on one thing: she wanted to do better by her clients. Already a great coach… but wanting to understand more. Danielle’s journey into menopause education was all about supporting her clients better, not just doing more, but doing it with confidence. A lot of the women Danielle works with are navigating the menopause transition, and like many coaches, she’d found herself trying to make sense of a space that can feel full of mixed messages. Rather than second guess or rely on fragmented information, she made a very conscious decision to properly understand what was happening, physiologically, emotionally, and practically so she could support her clients with real confidence. Learning That Fits Around Real Life From the start, our focus was on creating a way of learning that worked around her life. Danielle is balancing her business and her home life as a mum, so it was important that this didn’t become another pressure. We agreed a six week structure, meeting live online each week, which gave us consistency and momentum, but also the flexibility to adapt when needed. What that looked like in practice: A 6-week guided study plan with clear direction each week Live online sessions to keep things connected and personalised Space to talk things through, not just work through content Flexibility to adapt around her work and family commitments That balance is something I’m always mindful of, making sure learning feels supported, not overwhelming. Building Knowledge That Actually Transfers to Clients What stood out throughout was how engaged Danielle was in the process. Our sessions were never just about covering content. They were conversations. We explored the fundamentals of the menopause transition and the impact of declining hormones, but always in a way that linked directly back to the women she works with every day. Over the six weeks, we covered: The menopause transition and what’s happening physiologically The impact of declining hormones on the body and mind How to adapt training and nutrition to better support clients How to coach with greater understanding and confidence She wasn’t just learning theory, Danielle was constantly thinking about how it would translate into her coaching. Her written and verbal work reflected that. The presentations she produced and the professional discussions we had were of a really high standard, but more importantly, they showed genuine understanding and care. Bringing It All Together in Practice The Menopause qualification for Personal Trainers includes a final practical observation is always the moment where everything connects. Watching Danielle work with her client, there was a real sense of ease and professionalism. She was fully present, responsive, and clearly focused on her client’s goals. What really stood out: A calm, client-centred approach The ability to adapt naturally in the moment Sessions that were engaging, purposeful, and goal-focused A clear link between her knowledge and her coaching decisions She met all of the criteria, but beyond that, she demonstrated exactly what this qualification is designed to support, thoughtful, knowledgeable coaching that genuinely makes a difference. Danielle’s Experience “As an online coach and personal trainer working closely with women, furthering my knowledge around the menopause transition felt like the natural next step to better support my clients. Completing my menopause qualification with Cara and having her support and guidance throughout, really helped grow my understanding of what’s actually happening during this stage. I cannot recommend Cara at Evolve Beyond Training highly enough. I wanted the convenience of online learning without losing the personal touch that in-person tutoring provides. After researching various providers, I found that the service and value offered were second to none. Many online courses feel like a one-size-fits-all approach… but with Cara, every session felt tailored and engaging. I gained practical insights that I could apply in real life, while learning a wealth of valuable information. It’s been the best investment into my personal and professional development. I’m pleased to have completed the training but also sad that it’s over because I’ve enjoyed it so much! Now, I feel far more confident in supporting my clients with the right training, nutrition, and knowledge. It’s been a big step in my own growth as a coach and it means I can offer a much higher level of support to my clients, especially during a stage where they need it most.” Menopause Qualification for Personal Trainers - What This Really Means Going Forward For me, this is what it’s about. Not just completing a qualification, but creating the space for someone to deepen their practice in a way that feels relevant, supportive, and genuinely useful. What Danielle leaves with: Greater confidence in her coaching decisions A deeper understanding of menopause and its impact The ability to offer a higher level of support to her clients Knowledge she can apply immediately and meaningfully Danielle hasn’t just added knowledge she’s strengthened the way she shows up for her clients. And that’s where the real value sits. Thinking About Your Next Step? If you’re already working with clients and finding yourself thinking “I’d just like to understand this properly…” that’s usually the starting point. You don’t need to overhaul everything you do. It’s often just about building that deeper layer of understanding so you feel more confident in the decisions you’re making day to day. If that sounds familiar, you’re always welcome to have a chat with me about it. No pressure, no big pitch, just a conversation to see if it feels like the right next step for you. Cara

Changing careers can feel like stepping into the unknown. If you’re thinking about moving into the fitness industry or advancing your current role, you might be wondering where to start, what challenges lie ahead, and how to make the transition as smooth as possible. I’ve been there, and I want to share some insights and encouragement to help you navigate this exciting journey with confidence. Why Career Transition Support Matters in Fitness Transitioning into a new career, especially one as dynamic and people-focused as fitness, isn’t just about learning new skills. It’s about reshaping your mindset, building new networks, and finding your unique place in a competitive industry. That’s why career transition support is so important. Imagine trying to climb a mountain without a guide or map. You might find your way eventually, but it’s much easier and safer with someone who knows the terrain. Support can come in many forms: Mentorship from experienced trainers Access to flexible, high-quality qualifications Practical advice on building your client base Emotional encouragement during moments of doubt When you have dedicated support, you’re not just learning to be a trainer; you’re evolving into a confident professional ready to make a real impact. Gaining a certificate doesn't mean you are confident to start! How to Find the Right Career Transition Support Finding the right support can feel overwhelming, but it’s worth taking the time to explore your options. Here are some practical steps to help you identify the best fit for your needs: Look for flexible learning options - Life is busy, especially if you’re juggling family or other commitments. Choose courses or programs that allow you to learn at your own pace. Seek out personalised mentorship - A mentor who understands your background and goals can provide tailored advice and motivation. Check for industry recognition - Qualifications that are respected by employers and clients will open more doors. Join supportive communities - Whether online or in person, connecting with others on the same path can boost your confidence and provide valuable insights. Remember, support isn’t just about the technical side of training. It’s about feeling understood and encouraged every step of the way. What is the 30 30 30 Rule for Career Change? You might have heard about the 30 30 30 rule when considering a career change. It’s a simple framework to help you evaluate your decision and plan your next steps: 30% of your time should be spent researching the new career thoroughly. This means understanding the industry, job roles, and what skills you’ll need. 30% of your time should be dedicated to skill development. This could be through courses, certifications, or practical experience. 30% of your time should focus on networking and building relationships within the industry. Attend events, join forums, and connect with professionals. The remaining 10% is for reflection and adjustment. This rule helps you balance learning, action, and connection, making your transition more manageable and less overwhelming. Practical Tips for a Successful Fitness Career Transition Making a career change into fitness is exciting, but it also requires careful planning. Here are some actionable tips to help you succeed: Start with self-assessment: What are your strengths? What motivates you? Understanding yourself will help you choose the right path within fitness, whether it’s personal training, coaching, or wellness consulting. Gain relevant qualifications: Look for courses that offer practical skills and are recognised by the industry. This will boost your credibility and confidence. Build your network early: Connect with other fitness professionals, join local fitness groups, and attend workshops. Relationships are key to finding opportunities and support. Practice hands-on experience: Volunteer, intern, or shadow experienced trainers. Real-world experience is invaluable. Set realistic goals: Break your transition into small, achievable steps. Celebrate each milestone to stay motivated. Stay adaptable: The fitness industry evolves quickly. Be open to learning new techniques and approaches. By following these steps, you’ll create a strong foundation for your new career. Close-up view of fitness certification documents and training materials on a desk Embracing Your New Path with Confidence Transitioning careers can feel daunting, but it’s also a chance to rediscover your passion and purpose. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. With the right support, you can overcome challenges and thrive in your new role. If you’re ready to take the next step, consider exploring fitness career transition support that’s designed to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, or beyond, it’s never too late to pursue a fulfilling career in fitness. Take a deep breath, trust your journey, and know that every step forward is progress. Your future in fitness is waiting, and with dedicated support, you’ll be ready to embrace it fully.

If you’ve been thinking about becoming a Pilates teacher, you’ve probably asked yourself some important questions: What does the course actually involve? Is it really hard? Will I be able to do it after years away from studying? I’ve been there too, and I want to share what the journey really looks like. Training to become a Mat Pilates instructor is much more than just learning exercises. It’s about understanding people, movement, and building confidence, both yours and your future clients’. Here’s what you can expect from the Level 3 Diploma in Mat Pilates taught by myself at Evolve Beyond Training If you’re currently exploring whether this is the right step for you, start here: It always starts with rolling out the mat… and wondering if you can actually do this. (You can.) What you actually learn on the Level 3 Mat Pilates beyond just exercises A Level 3 Diploma in Mat Pilates is a full professional regulated qualification, not a quick weekend course. You’ll dive deep into several key areas: Anatomy and Physiology You’ll learn how the body works and why Pilates exercises affect muscles and joints the way they do. This knowledge helps you teach safely and effectively. Health and Lifestyle Pilates isn’t just about ideal bodies or perfect movements. You’ll study how to support real clients with different needs, injuries, and lifestyles. The Pilates Method This includes the history, core principles, and structure of Pilates. Understanding the method helps you teach with purpose, not just by copying moves. This training is not about memorising facts. It’s about understanding concepts and applying them in real situations. You Don’t Just Learn...You Practice One of the most important parts of the course is becoming a learner yourself. You’ll keep a personal practice log where you: Experience Pilates exercises in your own body Reflect on how each movement feels Notice how your confidence grows through practice This hands-on experience builds your teaching confidence from the inside out. It’s one thing to know the theory, but feeling the exercises yourself makes a huge difference. If you’re nodding along thinking “this is exactly what I want to learn…” Learning to Teach Changes Everything Teaching Pilates is not just about following a script. You’ll learn how to: Plan a session tailored to your clients’ needs Structure a class that flows smoothly Deliver instructions clearly to a group Adapt exercises on the spot when needed You will be observed by myself during your teaching practice. This might sound intimidating, but it’s designed to support you. Observations help you step into teaching safely and confidently, with feedback that helps you improve. The Assessments You’ll Face Assessments are often the part that worries people most. The course includes: Written tasks to check your understanding Practical teaching assessments where you demonstrate your skills Professional discussions to explain your approach A final client-based project showing how you apply everything you’ve learned These assessments are not like school exams. They focus on your ability to use your knowledge in real-life teaching situations. You’re not just learning exercises… you’re learning how to support real people The Bit No One Talks About At some point during your training, you might wonder if you can really do this. That feeling is normal, especially if: You haven’t studied in years You’re balancing work, family, and other responsibilities You’re stepping into something new and unfamiliar Remember, confidence grows with experience. The course is designed to support you every step of the way. You’re not expected to be perfect from the start. If you want to talk it through based on your situation: Training to become a Mat Pilates instructor is a rewarding challenge. It’s about more than exercises, it’s about understanding bodies, supporting clients, and building your own confidence as a teacher. If you’re ready to commit to learning and practicing, you’ll find the journey fulfilling and empowering. With over 20 years in the industry, I don’t just teach Pilates… I guide people into becoming confident instructors If you’ve been thinking about becoming a Pilates teacher but weren’t sure what to expect… This is your next step. ( No pressure. Just clear, honest guidance based on you. ) Or if you prefer a conversation: Click here and message me Pilates Cara

Retirement wasn’t the end for Tina… it was her turning point. From police officer to fitness professional, proof it’s never too late to start again. At 50, Tina wasn’t looking to start over…She was simply trying to figure out what came next. After 30 years in the police force, retirement should have felt like freedom. But instead, it brought uncertainty. “Who am I now?” “What do I actually want to do?” “Am I too old to start something new?” If that sounds familiar… you’re not alone. And it if it already feels familiar... The Reality: It Wasn’t Ability… It Was Confidence When Tina first came to me, she wasn’t confident. Not in learning. Not in her ability. Not in whether she even belonged in the fitness industry. But what she did  have was: Life experience Empathy Discipline A genuine desire to help others And that combination? That’s exactly what the fitness industry needs more of. This is what starting before you feel ready looks like… Tina didn’t wait for the “perfect time” to star....She made it work around real life (and a little help from Beau her 🐶) Why So Many Women 40+ Feel Stuck This is something I see every single week. Women in their 40s, 50s and beyond who: Have transformed their own health Feel drawn to help others But don’t believe they can actually “do it” They tell me: “I’m too old” “I’m not academic” “I wouldn’t have the confidence” But here’s the truth… Confidence doesn’t come first Clarity comes first Tina’s Turning Point to becoming a Fitness Professional at 50 Tina didn’t suddenly wake up confident. She simply took the first step and gained clarity on what was possible Once she understood: What qualification she actually needed How learning would fit around her life That she would be supported every step of the way Everything shifted. Confidence came after that. This is exactly why I created the Qualification Clarity Check. Tina celebrating a huge milestone, qualifying as a Group Exercise Instructor and taking the first step into her new career in fitness. From Unsure… to Qualified Fitness Professional Fast forward… Tina is now: A qualified fitness professional Running her own sessions Supporting others who once felt exactly like she did And perhaps most importantly… She proved to herself that starting again at 50 wasn’t too late by becoming a fitness professional Tina with her class, creating a welcoming, supportive space where everyone feels confident to start their fitness journey, no matter their age or experience Inspiration for Others Tina’s story serves as an inspiration for anyone considering becoming a Fitness Professional later in life. Her advice? Take the first step, even if it feels daunting. "You don’t have to have everything figured out right away," she says. "Just start. The rest will fall into place with time and effort." Could This Be You? If you’re reading this and thinking: “I’ve been considering this for ages…” “I just don’t know where to start…” “I’m not sure if I’m capable… ” Then this is your next step 👇 Start With Clarity (Not Commitment) You don’t need to have it all figured out, you just need a starting point. The Qualification Clarity Check (QCC)  will help you: Understand the right pathway for YOU Remove overwhelm Build confidence through clarity Take your first step without pressure Takes just a few minutes with a personal response from me (Cara)....and no pressure! Want to Know Who You’d Be Learning With? The right support can make or break your journey. If you want to understand: My background My experience Why I specialise in supporting women 40+ If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re too old to become a personal trainer, you’re not alone, I hear this all the time. Final Thought Tina didn’t start with confidence. She started with a conversation. And that one step? Changed everything.....

The short answer? No. But I know it probably doesn’t feel that simple. Because if you’re reading this, you are maybe thinking: “Am I too old to start again?” “Will I be the oldest one there?” “What if I can’t keep up?” “What if I’ve left it too late?” And underneath all of that… “What if I fail?” Wondering if you’re too old to become a personal trainer? It often starts right here. Before you read on… If this has been on your mind for a while and you are not sure where to start I’ve created a simple Qualification Clarity Check  to help you figure out the best route based on your lifestyle, confidence, and goals. It will help you: Work out if this is actually right for you Understand your options Get clear without pressure Takes less than 2 minutes. No pressure. No commitment. Get clear on your next step without the overwhelm. Let’s be honest for a second… This isn’t really about age. It’s about: Confidence Starting something new Stepping into the unknown And putting yourself back in a position where you’re learning again That’s the bit that feels uncomfortable and that leads to the original question...am I too old to become a Personal Trainer? And here’s what I see every single week… Women in their 40s, 50s (and beyond) who: Have completely transformed their own health Have supported family, friends, colleagues Have REAL life experience Have empathy that you simply can’t teach And yet still say: “I think I’m too old to do this…” The reality? The industry NEEDS you. The average age of a Personal Trainer is just under 40. But the people joining gyms, classes and looking for support? They’re often 40+ They don’t want: Intimidation Perfection Or someone shouting at them They want: Someone relatable Someone who understands Someone who gets it Someone who understands where you’re starting from… and knows how to guide you forward. Quick pause… If you’re reading this and thinking: “This sounds exactly like me…” Don’t overthink it. Takes less than 2 minutes. No pressure. No commitment. Get clear on your next step without the overwhelm. And this is exactly where you come in. Your life experience is not a weakness. It’s your biggest asset . The communication skills, empathy and understanding you’ve built over years? That’s what makes an exceptional Personal Trainer. As a industry Tutor & Assessor I’ve worked with hundreds of learners… From complete career changers, to people rebuilding confidence, to those who never thought education was for them And the journey is always the same: It starts with doubt It grows with support And it ends with confidence Want to see what this actually looks like in real life? I’ve worked with women who felt exactly like this. Unsure. Nervous. Questioning everything. But here’s the bit most people don’t talk about… Being qualified isn’t the end. It’s the beginning. Because once you’ve done it… You don’t just have a certificate, you have the ability to change someone else’s life So… are you too old to become a Personal Trainer? No. But you might be: Overthinking it Doubting yourself Waiting for the “right time” (And let’s be honest… when does life ever calm down?) You’re not too old… you’re just talking yourself out of it. If you’re even thinking about it… Start here Takes less than 2 minutes. No pressure. No commitment. Get clear on your next step without the overwhelm. Or… just have a chat No pressure. No hard sell. Just a proper conversation to see if this could fit into your life. Send me a message on Instagram by clicking here You’re not too old. You’re just at the point where it actually means something. Cara

Happy New Year! There’s something invigorating about the start of a new year—a blank slate, a fresh chapter, and the perfect opportunity to set intentions for the months ahead. For many, health and fitness are high on the list of priorities, but where do you begin when it comes to studying to become a Fitness Professional? If you’re looking for a flexible, supportive way to turn your passion into a profession, becoming a learner with Evolve Beyond Training  might be the perfect step forward. Why Evolve Beyond Training is the Perfect Choice for the New Year Whether you’re stepping into the health and fitness industry for the first time or making a career change, the new year is the ideal time to invest in yourself. At Evolve Beyond Training , we specialise in providing vocational qualifications tailored to your needs. Our courses are designed to help learners: Build confidence in a supportive and flexible learning environment. Gain industry-recognised qualifications in health and fitness. Turn a passion for fitness into a rewarding career. Who Are Evolve Beyond Training Learners? Our learners come from all walks of life, often pursuing new careers after achieving their own health and fitness goals. Take Tina, for example, one of our typical learners: A typical Evolve Beyond Training Learner, turning a passion into a career Over 40 and looking for a career change. A busy mum managing a household and family life. Driven by her passion for fitness and her desire to help others. Does this sound like you? If so, Evolve Beyond Training is here to help you succeed, no matter your starting point. Your Fitness Career Starts Here Joining Evolve Beyond Training isn’t just about earning a qualification—it’s about transforming your future. Here’s how we make it easier for you to achieve your goals: Flexible Learning Options:  Balance your studies with your busy life. Expert Support:  Our team is here to guide you every step of the way. A Focus on Practical Skills:  Learn how to inspire and support others in their fitness journey. Make 2025 the Year of Change Imagine finishing this year with a new qualification, a deeper understanding of health and fitness, and the skills to make a difference in others’ lives. With Evolve Beyond Training, you can turn that vision into reality. So why wait? Start your journey today and make this the year you take control of your future. Together, we’ll help you evolve beyond what you thought possible. Happy New Year—here’s to a stronger, healthier, and brighter future! Cara - Founder, Evolve Beyond Training

From an Inactive Childhood to a Passion for Rowing As a child, I wasn’t particularly active and rarely participated in sports. However, everything changed when the 2012 Olympics sparked a passion in me. Inspired by the athletes, I began exploring different sports, eventually discovering my love for rowing at the age of 11. Discovering my love for rowing Achieving National Titles and Olympic Dreams Rowing felt like second nature, even as I faced its challenges. By age 14, I had won three prestigious national titles: Two British Rowing Indoor Championships One British Rowing National Championship (outdoors) These successes fuelled my dream of competing in the Olympics and turning rowing into a lifelong career. Winning! Facing Unexpected Challenges: Injury and Recovery At 16, my journey took a heartbreaking turn when I suffered a severe hip injury. The injury was far more complicated than anticipated, leading to seven major surgeries over four years . From training six times a week to being unable to walk, my world changed completely. Rehabilitation became my new focus, demanding hundreds of hours of dedication. The mental challenges were as profound as the physical ones, but they taught me resilience and determination. A New Dream: Helping Others Achieve Their Fitness Goals by Becoming a Personal Trainer Though my Olympic dream ended, my passion for health and fitness remained unwavering. My experiences inspired me to help others overcome their challenges, improve their mental and physical health, and achieve their personal goals. As I work toward completing my Personal Training qualification with Evolve Beyond Training , I’m committed to: Providing one-on-one coaching tailored to individuals of all ages and abilities. Supporting young athletes who dream big, just as I once did. Promoting the importance of fitness for mental health and personal transformation. Becoming. a Personal Trainer Turning Challenges into Purpose The obstacles I’ve faced have given me a deeper understanding of the power of perseverance and the importance of a supportive fitness journey. By becoming a Personal Trainer my goal is to help others realise their potential, whether they’re pursuing athletic excellence or striving for better health and confidence. Together, we can turn dreams into reality. Seren

Fitness professionals, are you ready to progress? For all the current Fitness Professionals out there: Personal Trainers, Group Exercise Instructors, Pilates Instructor, Yoga Instructors, Exercise Referral Specialists, Strength and Conditioning Coaches, Freestyle Studio Instructors, Water Based Exercise Instructors, Sports Massage Therapists... What's next in your career? There is no doubt we all enter into becoming a Fitness Professional because we love what we do, we may have a previous sporting background, or simply want to be the inspiration for others. This could be from grass roots to working with athletes, we all have a passion for what we do. But have you considered that with all your knowledge, experience and transferable skills you could become a Health & Fitness Tutor, Assessor, or Internal Quality Assurer and work with the many UK Training Providers (like us!) But how do you go about this? What is involved? What could it lead to in terms of career progression? Gain the correct Tutor/Assessor/Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) Qualifications By gaining the correct Tutor and Assessor qualifications you will be recognised to Tutor/Assess any vocational education you already hold. For example You gained a recognised Personal Trainer Qualification at the start of your career and later enhanced your skills by gaining a Studio Cycling and Pre and Post Natal qualification, plus you have a CV to show you have worked in these three areas. By gaining the correct Tutor/Assessor/IQA qualifications you are now employable to teach/assess these qualifications with an approved Training Provider. However, you would not be able to teach a vocational qualification if you do not hold the technical competence, even if you have gained the Tutor/Assessor/IQA qualifications. L3 Award in Education and Training This is the minimum required (along with your existing vocational qualifications) required by a Training Provider to be an employed/freelance Tutor. The qualification is a generic qualification and not industry specific however with our learners at Evolve Beyond Training we centre the learning process around the Health & Fitness Industry to ensure our learners have the best possible chance to be industry ready. L3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement This is the minimum required (along with your existing vocational qualifications) required by a Training Provider to be an employed/freelance Assessor. The qualification is a generic qualification and not industry specific however as with the Tutor Qualification we centre the learning process around the Health & Fitness Industry to ensure our learners have the best possible chance to be industry ready. L4 Award in The Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice This is the minimum required (along with your existing vocational qualifications) required by a Training Provider to be an employed/freelance IQA. And as previously the qualification is a generic qualification and not industry specific however we centre the learning process around the Health & Fitness Industry to ensure our learners have the best possible chance to be industry ready. Once qualified... It goes with out saying you need to know your 'stuff' when embarking on a career with a Training Provider however, we all know that you may have not used all the knowledge you originally gained (especially if you specialised) and therefore it would be wise to go back to self directed learning to really understand the qualification spec you will be delivering and assessing. Once qualified we would personally advise getting some shadowing experience or working with a mentor at the beginning of your career (we offer, as part of the qualification, to have access to a mentor for 6 months after you qualify even if you do not go on to work with us - we know - gold dust!) What does it cost? It's safe to say the cost of the course is often linked to the mode of study. The cheaper the course, the more online it will be with minimal tutor interaction (if any). We would urge you to seriously consider the mode of learning when studying these qualifications because ultimately they lead you to being employed to demonstrate the skills and competencies to be able to interact with others! Our prices are detailed here What are the career possibilities? Well we are going to be biased here as myself and our head Tutor/Assessor have ongoing careers spanning 15 years, working with many Training Providers in the UK and Internationally and ultimately owning 1 International Provider and 1 UK provider. As a starting point there are many Training Providers in the UK (and abroad) who offer employed and freelance opportunities. Reflect back to where you studied, was your Tutor an inspirational role model or did you study your qualification online with minimal interaction? If it was the latter then there will not be many opportunities for you with that provider and it also opens a can of worms conversation (for another time) about appropriate delivery and learning methods for our industry! The basic career progression for most starts with Assessor, then Tutor and moving on once experience has been gained to IQA, although there are no hard and fast rules to which comes first in terms of Tutor/Assessor. What is is like to work teaching others in the health and Fitness Industry? We can honestly say it is the most rewarding experience working with learners from all back grounds, who we have met in the classroom and then watch them go on to teach, inspire and empower others to become fitness professionals. And just like our learners we would be more than happy to chat with you about the qualifications, career options and overall life as a 'Train the Trainer' to help you make the net steps in your career. Arrange an informal chat with me here Good Luck Cara

As a child many of us 50 somethings would have been told to 'sit up straight' and 'stop slouching', and this is before the dawn of hours and hours in front of screens. Currently the the average user in the UK spends 3 hours on a mobile device and just over 3 hours on their laptop, desktop or tablet. Throw into the mix a sedentary lifestyle, t hirty per cent of adults in the UK are sedentary for at least six hours/day during the week, which rises to 37% on the weekend, aiming to sit up straight can become a tricky task! Therefore, when either employing the services of a Personal Trainer or studying how to become a Personal Trainer, posture analysis should always form part of the initial client consultation. Personal Trainers will use the initial client consultation to find out a clients goals, current fitness levels and health status, barriers to exercise, likes and dislikes before creating a a programme to help them achieve their goals. During the client consultation it is essential that a postural analysis is performed to identify if there are any areas that need to be worked on alongside the chosen client goals. Ignoring any potential areas that can be improved within a clients posture, will hinder a clients success. What should Personal Trainers know in relation to posture? #1 - The body continually adapts to the demands placed on it (good and bad) The human body will naturally adapt its posture to any demands placed on it, in the both the short and long term. This can include occupational stresses, body weight, lifestyle, activity (or lack of) habits, injury and degenerative diseases. #2 - Our muscles are thought to have an optimal length-tension relationship This basically means muscles that are the optimal length will produce the most force. For example your posture has altered due to sitting a desk for prolonged periods of time, (you now have over stretched upper back muscles and shortened chest muscles - kyphosis) this will need to be addressed as the muscles involved will not optimally perform Posture : How we hold our bodies as well as the overall physical form of an individual #3 - A Personal Trainer will identify common postural distortions The 3 common postural distortions are referred to as: Kyphosis (forward poking head, rounded and elevated shoulders) Lordosis (over arch of the lower back) Scoliosis (excessive lateral curve of the spine) The most prevalent postural distortion is kyphosis, which is closely associated with prolonged screen time and sitting for extended periods. #4 - Work on stretching and strengthen the correct muscles for optimal posture (alongside your original goals) Your Personal Trainer will work with you to correct your posture as this will also enhance any other goals you wish to achieve. An example would be if you are kyphotic your chest muscles will have shortened and your back muscles lengthened therefore, additional work will be needed to stretch the chest muscles and strengthen the back muscles to optimise your posture Personal Training is not complete without considering posture in evaluating a client's objectives! Take a moment now to study your posture........sitting 'up straight' for the next 5 mins will not make a huge difference to bad posture however, acknowledging it and seeking advice (which muscles to stretch and which muscles to strengthen), will propel you faster towards your fitness goals.

Over the past few years I have assessed countless Personal Trainers delivering client consultations. This is the part within a Personal Trainer qualification where the client information is gathered, questions are asked and then fast forward to the client goals being set. This can be very specific when working with sports specific athletes but what about the rest of us? Regardless of if you are working with a Personal Trainer or setting your own fitness goals, my question is, are your fitness goals for mid life realistic and are they setting you up for failure? Now don't get me wrong, a fitness goal can be very motivational and provide you with a focus not to mention how you feel when you reach the goal but we need to look at the bigger health, wellness and fitness picture. Let me give you a typical example, the non running beginner (who doesn't partake in any other 'structured' activity and leads a sedentary lifestyle) wants to complete a 5k race and embarks on a training plan for the next 9 weeks. They are motivated by better weather arriving and venturing outside, it doesn't involve a gym because that would just be too intimidating, it's cheap, they know what to do as they will follow an app, so all in all it's achievable. Motivation levels go up and down during the 9 weeks however the 5k is completed. Great stuff, the body has adapted and gains have been made within various systems such as cardiovascular and muscular skeletal. Once the goal has been achieved the typical mid life exerciser will adopt the all or nothing approach, it will either spur them onto bigger and greater goals - fantastic - or more typically go back to doing zero as the entire focus was on a singular goal. This is where we have to challenge our approach to mid life activity and the goals we work towards. Our bodies are made to move in many directions and as we get older the activities we do have a direct impact on the lifestyle we lead which shapes our future (in terms of movement for the average person becomes very linear). Let's go back to training for the 5k run. The training is specific (as it should be) to achieve the goal but if no other movement or components of fitness are being included, we are training our bodies to move in one direction know as the sagittal plane. Walking, running, bending forward, leg extensions, chest press, sit ups are all sagittal plane movements. If your activity is all walking and running to achieve your 5k goal, where are the twisty, bendy movements that we should all be doing to avoid later life linear movement. Not to mention activities that promote strength and flexibility. At this moment we should absolutely applaud achieving the 5k however I want to provoke you to think more on a daily lifestyle basis, where movement is enjoyable, simple, in the moment and realistic. How many of you have thought 'I will sign up to XYZ' then I will achieve it? Let's not discount the small things we can achieve everyday, they might not be attached to a singular goal, gym session or structured event so the natural trait is not to see them as 'counting'. A bit like going for a walk and forgetting to put your wearable tech on to count the steps.....as you don't see the digital result it almost doesn't count (and it's absolutely gutting if you have set a 10000 a day step goal!) Our 5k run example can now complete the distance however, can they also sit on the floor for a period of time and then get up with ease, sit in a chair with good posture for a prolonged period of time, sit on the sofa and reach behind to retrieve the remote by twisting without feeling any discomfort or pick up a hula hoop and go for it! Try and recall all the times today you have twisted and bent your body from the waist, reached both your arms over your head multiple times, lifted your knees higher than your hips and were these part of any planned fitness activity? How many times have you jumped, hopped, skipped or done a cartwheel this week? OK, so that might feel a little far fetched but my point is if our daily movement is limited in the planes of movement or just follows one component such as cardiovascular, muscular endurance and flexibility, our destiny is set to a linear shuffle across the community room in the old peoples home. Therefore, let's challenge ourselves to have everyday activity and goals that impact the way we move and sets us up for success. Set daily goals that might not involve a gym or event or specific outcome but include pushing and pulling our own bodyweight, jumping, twisting, dancing.........everything counts as movement! And of course if you are training for a 5k good luck, it's a fantastic thing to do.......just add in some more movement planes into your lifestyle and consider additional components of fitness such as strength and flexibility! Thank you for reading and when you put your phone down, get onto the floor and stand up x 10! Cara

Every new company has a story behind its creation, filled with hope, dreams, hard work, and challenges - success doesn't come overnight! Simply put Evolve Beyond Training is a Training Provider specialising in working with women in their 40's and 50's who have a passion for health and fitness and wish to re train and gain Personal Training qualifications. We also offer a whole bunch of other qualifications linked with the industry. Trust me when I tell you that this didn't happen suddenly! My name is Cara Standley and I am the founder of Evolve Beyond Training and can safely say I've been in the industry prior to regulated Personal Training qualifications being a thing! I can also boast to having worked out to VHS cassette tapes of Lizzie Webb in my parents front room (if you know you know!) Prior to my interest in fitness I was into all things dancing and studied at the London College of Dance and Drama which enforced traits such as discipline, respect and a thirst to do well given the continual competition. I'm happy to say that whilst I was never going to be a prima ballerina, I don't regret a single moment of the hard work that was enforced (and maybe frowned upon in this day and age) as whilst not knowing it at the time, it fuelled my passion for the health and fitness industry. Similar to riding a bike, I returned to the world of dancing in my early 40s despite feeling a bit unsteady. I pursued it as a hobby and found that my drive and passion were still strong. Stepping out of my comfort zone, I achieved first place in both Paris and Russia, an accomplishment that fills me with pride. So fast forward past the initial dancing part, this led to a passion all things health and fitness, I retrained and entered the world of Personal Training moving onto owing a Personal Training Studio then evolved into teaching Personal Trainer Qualifications and then taking a risk and heading off to the United Arab Emirates as there were big gaps in the fitness education scene. I immersed myself in creating a high quality Training Provider, raising the global standards of fitness education and making the education accessible to all. Over a 10 year period in the region I'm so proud of what we achieved as a team however the two most notable moments were winning Training Provider of the Year UAE in 2017 and also being recognised as bringing fitness education to females in Saudi Arabia as soon the local laws had changed enabling females to be in a gym environment. https://emirateswoman.com/meet-the-uae-entrepreneur-whos-shaking-up-saudis-female-fitness-scene/ Another fast forward to 2024, back in the UK and Evolve Beyond Training is born. Throughout the hundreds of learners I have personally worked with, the Tutors, Assessors and Training Providers globally that I have quality assured, given feedback, created training, and collectively raised standards there was one group of learners that always personally made a huge impact. Yep you've guessed it! The more mature learner, sometimes not as confident, often questioning if they are doing the right thing but ultimately using all the transferrable skills they have gained to go on and impact others through their Personal Training career. Specifically the female learners I have worked with in their 40's and 50's have so much empathy with their clients given their own life experiences and can adapt their Personal Training to meet the needs of their clients as a one size fits all online programme just doesn't cut it. Please don't get me wrong all the other demographic of learners have so much talent and lot to give to the industry however I wanted to selfishly provide an opportunity specifically for the more mature learner that has a flexible learning environment and caters to their individual needs just as they will go on to do with their clients. So that's almost it in a nutshell however I must spotlight a beautiful individual and lead Tutor and Assessor (and top dog at everything Personal Training) Ella Brooker. During my first foray into being a Personal Trainer I met Ella 20+ years ago in a local gym we both worked in. Ella is an industry professional having worked in the UK and Internationally. 20 years later Ella is a fantastic role model to anyone who wishes to have a long and successful Personal Training career. Ella uses both her technical and interpersonal skills to ensure the training is realistic and achievable and sprinkles a lot of fun into the Personal Training. At a collective age of 92 we prove that you can achieve anything you put your mind to and we would love to be the ones helping you become a Personal Trainer in your 40's and 50's! We guarantee it will be fun too............ Cara & Ella