>Sophie Pavey Fitness personal training is designed for women with packed diaries, demanding jobs, and barely a second to breathe — let alone hit the gym for hours. I offer 1-1 and Small Group Training at flexible times to suit your schedule. My clients achieve real results with real support — zero fluff.
I’m based at a local, welcoming and zero judgement gym where you can get strong whilst actually enjoying yourself! This isn’t a faceless class where you get lost at the back. I know your name, your goals, and how to push you (gently but firmly!) to feel stronger in body and mind.
Level 3 personal trainer Pre and postnatal training.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: I’ve never lifted weights before. Will I be able to manage?
Absolutely. Plenty of my clients started as complete beginners. I’ll guide you step by step, focusing on safe, simple movements. Confidence builds quickly once you start.
Q: Will it be all burpees, bootcamps and ‘no pain, no gain?’
Nope. This is strength training, focusing on building muscle for a stronger you. There’s no whooping, hollering, or lycra-clad gym bunnies posturing, either. Just women, like you, getting stronger and healthier.
Q: Won’t I get bulky?
Body building is a specialist thing and bodybuilders dedicate hours and hours to training every day. It’s far harder for women to bulk up even if they want to, due to lower testosterone levels. You’ll get toned and strong, look leaner,and feel great.
Q: Do I have to diet, and eat clean, and cut out treats?
Oh heck no – unless you want to. We’ll support you with healthy eating and suggest protein-rich meals which are great for muscle. It’s all about balance.
Q: I’m really busy with work and family – how will I find time?
You don’t need hours in the gym. Just 2–3 short sessions a week can make a huge difference to strength, energy, and mood. I’ll help you fit training around your schedule, not the other way round.
Q: I’m in my 40s/50s/perimenopausal. Can strength training help me?
Yes. Strength training is one of the best things you can do at this stage of life. It helps balance hormones, protects your bones, boosts metabolism, improves sleep, and builds confidence.
Q: Will everyone laugh or judge me for looking silly or not knowing what to do?
You won’t ever be judged here, and there’ll be no need for laughing – except together. This is a supportive, friendly space, and I’ll make sure you know exactly what to do. Everyone starts somewhere – the important thing is that you start.
Q: Do I need lots of expensive kit and new trainers?
No. Many effective exercises use just your own bodyweight, bands, or simple free weights. If you train with me in the gym, all equipment is provided. Comfy, breathable clothing like leggings and a t-shirt is all you need, and there’s no need to splash out on new trainers.
Q: What if I can’t make a session?
Life happens! We’re flexible – if you need to rearrange, just let me know and we’ll reschedule where possible.
Q: When will I see results?
The results you’ll feel are the most important. Most women notice changes in energy, mood, and strength within a few weeks. Visible changes vary person to person, but consistency always pays off.
Q: How much weight should I lift?
Start with a lighter weight to warm up and get used to the movement. Once you can lift a weight with good form for 12 repetitions, you can gradually increase the resistance. We’ll make sure you progress without ever overdoing it or risking injury.
Q: Should I train with free weights or machines?
Machines are great for beginners learning proper form and free weights: (like dumbbells and barbells) are excellent for engaging more stabilising muscles and mimicking real-life movements.
Q: Do you offer a trial session?
Yes! New clients can book a free, no-obligation consultation or taster session to see if it feels like the right fit. We think you’ll love it – and we know you’ll be better for it.
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Sophie Pavey
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Louise Gresty
2 weeks agoI cannot recommend Sophie enough! I first started training with her in late March following a recommendation from a friend. I was dubious and nervous at first as I’ve never been a gym goer, but I can honestly say her sessions have changed my life! I had been through a pretty tough few years due to personal circumstances which left me both physically and mentally drained. I lacked energy and enthusiasm and felt really out of shape fitness wise and felt like I had lost myself. For me, Sophie’s sessions have been much more than I imagined (losing weight / getting fitter). Through her encouragement I am finally getting my confidence back and, mentally I am much more able to deal with what life throws at me. Alongside that I feel much stronger both physically and mentally too. My family and friends have noticed the difference, both in my mood and my body composition. Sophie makes the groups fun and knows how to push you in a way you feel empowered to know you CAN do it. The small groups are also full of lovely inspirational women who support you and you can have a giggle too! I love the way Sophie regularly checks in with you both with nutrition and exercise to ensure you are on track and also to offer advice for where you may be having trouble. From someone who was a dubious gym goer I now train four times a week and can honestly say it is worth it!
Rachel Potts
3 weeks agoI honestly can't recommend Sophie enough! When I started 6 months ago, I'd never set foot in a gym (in fact the thought terrified me!), I'd never lifted weights, and I absolutely hated exercise. However after having 2 children I was getting bigger and bigger and felt totally rubbish so knew I had to do something. I'm so glad I found Sophie! 6 months later I've already lost over a stone, nearly 3 inches from round my stomach and more importantly, I feel so much healthier and happier. What makes Sophie different is she has taught me how to eat in a way that's realistic and sustainable. There's no "you can never have a treat again" mentality or just living on salad. Instead she helps me make better choices and build habits that fit into everyday life. I also love her group sessions. They're small enough that you still get individual support and guidance but you also get to train alongside other women who encourage eachother and have a good chat while we're at it. It's a great supportive environment! If you've been putting off starting because you're nervous or think the gym isn't for you, I highly recommend messaging Sophie, it's definitely one of the best decisions I've made and am so grateful for all her support and the confidence she's giving me back.
Julia Harbridge
3 months agoI have been training with Sophie for just over 6 months and I am so pleased with the results I am seeing. Sophie has helped me to change my habits towards food and exercise and now I am training four times a week and focussed on the right foods to fuel my body. I absolutely could not have achieved any of this without the consistent support and encouragement from Sophie, 100% recommend her to anyone.
Kate Godfrey
4 months agoSophie's group sessions are a revelation. Training in small groups inspires confidence and gives additional accountability, while Sophie's supportive and expert training is making a difference already - plus, it doesn't stop at the gym doors. If, like me, you think you hate the gym, you NEED Sophie. Thank me later.
N Marie
a year agoI’ve been training with Sophie’s group sessions for a while now, and I can’t recommend them enough! The sessions are always fun, varied, and challenging in the best way. Sophie creates such a supportive and welcoming environment, making everyone feel comfortable no matter their fitness level. Since joining, I’ve noticed a huge improvement in my strength, confidence, and overall well-being. The group dynamic keeps me motivated, and I love the sense of community—we all push each other to be our best! If you’re thinking about joining, don’t hesitate! Whether you’re new to training or looking to take your fitness to the next level, this group is the perfect place to do it. Thank you, Sophie, for making exercise something I genuinely look forward to! 💚