Why we run things the way we do

You don’t need to be fit to start and you’re definitely not expected to know everything on day one. If we all waited until we felt perfectly ready, we wouldn’t achieve very much. Everything can be scaled and every beginner feels nervous, whether they admit it or not, so taking that first step already counts as progress. Outside the gym I love rucking, getting outdoors and hunting down good coffee, often at the same time. Crowned Through Effort means progress comes from showing up and giving your best. Not the most reps, not the fastest time. Just genuine effort, even on the days when your motivation is hiding.

Honestly, the bit I love most is someone walking in nervous on their first day, because I was that person. When I started I couldn’t do a pull-up and could barely hang off the bar, so I know how it feels to think the whole room is watching you. They’re not, by the way, they’re far too busy enjoying themselves.

In your first class I keep it easy, talk you through everything and tweak the workout so it suits you, then I’ll start introducing you round, the way someone did for me.

I’m a bit of a joker on the floor, and the thing I never get tired of is watching someone do something they swore they couldn’t, a first box jump or a first pull-up. Deadlifts and wall walks are my favourites.

Away from the gym I’m a proud girl dad of two, married to Katherine who trains here too, and I’m usually skiing, watching American football or murdering a karaoke classic.

For me, Crowned Through Effort just means turning up and giving your best, whatever that looks like that day.

I love greeting newcomers with a proper warm welcome and reassure them that fun comes before perfection. I love watching beginners grow in confidence and realise our community is an awesome bunch that will support you at every turn. I’m known for thorough warm ups and celebrating big lifts like I did them myself. Outside the gym I’m a self confessed nerd, into PC gaming, painting Warhammer 40K and the odd ruck with Tom that I instantly regret. Crowned Through Effort means trying hard and being proud of the work you put in, even when you’re tired, busy or stepping in from the cold. That’s what earns progress.

I love welcoming nervous newcomers and helping them feel part of the community from the moment they walk in. First classes are kept simple, supportive and jargon free, with clear coaching, smart scaling and plenty of encouragement so people can relax and enjoy the experience. We all start somewhere and I still remember learning Olympic lifts with a broom handle. On the floor I’m often known as the pocket rocket. High energy, chatty and big on standards, I love celebrating small wins and keeping the atmosphere fun. Handstands and double unders are my happy place. Outside the gym I’m usually chasing good coffee, great food, travel and time with friends. Crowned Through Effort means showing up, doing your best and trusting that consistent effort always leads to progress.