James Amos Personal Trainer

James Amos is a Royal Marine turned personal trainer who knows how to push his clients and achieve results. He shares his secrets with Sundried.

How did you find yourself in the world of fitness?

I have always been very active and love to push my own limits in sport and training. This mindset led me to pursue a career in the Royal Marines. Sadly, after a few years in the forces, I sustained several injuries that meant it was not to be. On leaving, I stuck to what I know best and became a personal trainer starting up a business from scratch. This quickly led to owning my own personal training studio which I am very proud of. I have a great deal of enthusiasm for the fitness industry and exercise rehabilitation following my own experiences of training whilst injured.

What do you do to keep your clients motivated?

I always try to lay out goals from the outset and structure the training in a way that is achievable. I make the sessions fun, challenging, and always different.

Talk us through your training regime.

I try to train about 4 times a week, more if I get the chance. My training usually consists of weight training and HIIT circuits. The main focus of my fitness goals is sport related so I also specifically train for lead climbing using a TRX system and bodyweight exercises to improve core strength and balance. I also have a bouldering wall in my studio to improve technique. Working on my upper body strength, power, and flexibility helps me with surfing.

Do you follow a specific diet?

I have a healthy balanced diet, as I honestly believe this is all you need to stay fit and healthy. With my busy schedule, I eat about 5 small meals a day. I may have a protein shake after a workout depending on the intensity.

How do you keep your fitness knowledge up to date?

The fitness industry is forever changing. I like to read books to improve my knowledge and will ensure that I attend various courses and events throughout the year. I also enjoy working with other people in the industry as this usually sparks great ideas.

How do you balance work and a social life?

My work and social life overlap quite a bit. Owning a small gym requires long hours and attention, however this results in getting to know my clients and members quite well. I thoroughly enjoy my work but my main passions are my climbing and surfing and whenever I get time I get out on my motorbike.

What are your top 3 trainer tips?

1.     Stay motivated and always remember why you started and where you are going, goals are very important!
2.     Regardless of your goals diet is key. Try to make gradual lifestyle changes to support a better diet.
3.     Avoid over training and don’t feel guilty about not training when you are away. Exercise is to be enjoyed and the effects of a holiday are almost always positive!

If you could only give your clients one exercise, what would it be?

Pull-ups! Many people find them extremely difficult, however they are a great demonstration of excellent upper body strength and ability. With the right training and some perseverance, a pull-up can be an awesome achievement.

What are your training aspirations?

I train so that I can perform my sports and hobbies to the best of my ability, also because I love to train and I love to push my limits. I get great satisfaction out of hitting my own goals and then making new ones.

Why work with Sundried?

Sundried is a good brand and offers clean, stylish clothing that appeals to me and I am sure it will be well-received. The company’s ethics are commendable and I am very pleased to support them.