Do personal trainers really need a niche and if so, what does that actually mean? In this episode, Claire and Maggie challenge the traditional approach to niche marketing and explore why focusing on demographics may be less effective than understanding the people you genuinely enjoy helping. They discuss authenticity, client feedback, evolving business identities, and how the right clients are often attracted by clear messaging rather than a tightly defined target market.     Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar

What does it really take to support clients living with chronic pain and fatigue? In this episode, Claire and Maggie explore the complex, biopsychosocial nature of chronic pain and discuss why exercise is only one piece of the puzzle. They unpack the differences between chronic pain, chronic fatigue, and post-exertional malaise (PEM) associated with conditions such as ME/CFS and long COVID, highlighting why generic "no pain, no gain" approaches can do more harm than good. Together, they share practical guidance on communication, exercise programming, scope of practice, and building truly client-centred support, while emphasizing the importance of flexibility, collaboration, and respecting clients as experts in their own bodies.   Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar

How much programming is too much programming? In this episode, Claire and Maggie unpack their evolving approaches to personal training programming, from overcomplicated plans and periodisation spreadsheets to flexible, client-centred frameworks that actually work in the real world. They explore the balance between structure and adaptability, why general population clients need a different approach from athletes, and how focusing on core movement patterns can simplify decision-making while still delivering great results. Plus, they share practical tips for session planning, tracking progress, and creating programmes that fit clients' goals, preferences, and busy lives.   Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar

  In this episode, Claire and Maggie discuss eating disorders and disordered eating, including the often-overlooked intersection between the fitness industry and eating disorders. Maggie shares insights from her new course for personal trainers, breaking down the spectrum from diagnosable conditions like anorexia and bulimia to more subtle forms of disordered eating. Together, they unpack how well-intentioned coaching around weight loss and discipline can sometimes reinforce harmful patterns, and how to spot the difference between healthy habits and red flags like rigid food rules or compensatory exercise. This conversation is a must-listen for fitness professionals looking to support clients with compassion, challenge their own biases, and create a more flexible, client-centered approach without stepping outside their scope of practice.   Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar

In this episode, Claire sits down with Ben Jones, a personal trainer with 17 years of experience, to explore his journey from gym owner to running a thriving one-to-one coaching business from a small training space in Hertfordshire. Ben shares why he stepped away from the pressures of managing a successful fitness studio to focus on what he loves most, helping clients achieve life-changing results through straightforward, effective training. Together, they discuss the power of simplicity in coaching, working with clients in their 40s, 50s and 60s, the challenges of balancing parenthood with entrepreneurship, and the importance of setting clear boundaries around work and family life. Ben also reflects on mentorship, avoiding the trap of comparison, and staying connected to your "why" in the fitness industry. Packed with practical insights and honest reflections, this conversation is a valuable listen for personal trainers and fitness professionals looking to build a sustainable, rewarding career.   Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar

In this episode, Claire and Maggie explore how personal trainers can better support clients with undiagnosed ADHD and other neurodivergent traits. They unpack the barriers to formal diagnosis and explain why many clients may never use clinical labels, even when they relate to the symptoms. The conversation highlights how ADHD often presents differently in women, particularly during perimenopause, and challenges common assumptions about behaviours like lateness, inconsistency, or lack of focus. Rather than being intentional, these are often rooted in neurological differences such as time blindness, distraction, or difficulty with routine. They shares practical, real-world strategies for coaches, including flexible goal-setting focused on immediate wins, adapting environments to reduce distractions, and recognising the impact of rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD). They emphasise the importance of clear, varied communication, autonomy in decision-making, and breaking tasks into manageable steps. Above all, the episode encourages trainers to approach clients with curiosity, compassion, and openness, moving away from judgement and towards truly personalised support that meets people where they are.  

In this episode of LTB Podcast, Claire and Maggie unpack how constant comparison within the fitness industry fuels imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and indecision. They explore how trainers absorb unrealistic "shoulds" from peers and marketing, leading to overthinking and a loss of confidence. Sharing practical strategies, they encourage trainers to refocus on their own clients, values, and priorities, building confidence through aligned actions rather than chasing external standards of success.   Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar

In this episode Claire and Maggie explore what it really means to take a trauma‑informed approach to coaching in fitness spaces. They unpack how assuming every client may carry some form of past trauma shifts the focus from "fixing" individuals to creating environments that feel safe, supportive, and empowering for everyone. Claire and Maggie also discuss how to recognise signs of discomfort, respond with empathy, and provide alternatives without putting clients on the spot. Ultimately, they show that trauma‑informed coaching isn't about doing more, it's about doing things differently, putting clients in control, and building a culture of trust, respect, and autonomy in every session.   Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar

In this episode, Claire sits down with Maggie to unpack the realities of setting up and running a Community Interest Company (CIC) as a personal trainer. Maggie shares what a CIC actually is, why she chose this route, and how it's allowed her to deliver meaningful, community‑focused work alongside a sustainable business model. They explore the practical side of getting started, from choosing directors and registering with Companies House to navigating bank accounts, grants, and reporting requirements. Maggie also highlights the importance of balancing funding with trading income, involving members in decision‑making, and staying organised with the admin side of things. If you've ever considered taking your PT business in a more community‑driven direction, this episode offers a grounded, honest look at what's involved and what to think about before you begin.   Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar

Claire and Maggie explore how personal trainers can coach runners more effectively, whether they're complete beginners or chasing a new PB. You'll hear practical frameworks for building a runner from the ground up (progressions, run–walk intervals, technique cues, and effort-based pacing), plus how to layer in energy-system work, hills/sprints, and strength training without compromising run quality. They also dig into long-distance prep, including time on feet, fuelling, hydration and tapering.  Whether you regularly coach runners, are adjusting to a new goal from an existing client or are preparing for a new client, this conversation highlights the power of personalised coaching and the small changes that can make a big difference.     Find Out More About LTB Membership Where You Can Find More Resources Aimed At Training Runers: Website: https://liftthebar.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar