From Couch to Coach

In this first blog entry, I want to share an overview of why I started my fitness journey.

Quite possibly one of the worst photos that sums up my lowest point.

Let’s rewind to March 2022. I was living in Leicester with my soon-to-be husband, having just made it through the other side of the COVID lockdowns. Like many people, we spent that time eating and drinking (the Domino’s delivery guys knew us a little too well by then). Over the years, the weight piled on, and I found myself at one of the lowest points in my life. Depressed, obese, and with my confidence at rock bottom, I realized something had to change.

I knew my weight and physical appearance were the main things holding me back. “You can’t lose weight without going to the gym, right?” That was my logic, and as an avid couch junkie (hence the name!) I joined a local gym. While I’d had minor successes with gyms in the past, I wasn’t confident enough to just dive in. I decided to sign up with a personal trainer for a few sessions—someone to guide me through the equipment, help me get comfortable, and build my confidence. That was the plan, anyway.

Enter Simon Nolan. His photo was on the wall of personal trainers at the gym, and what drew me to him was a mention of mental health in his bio. That resonated with me, so I signed up for sessions with him. Fast forward three years, and Simon is still my coach.

One of many before vs after pics

I’ll dive into the details of my transformation throughout this blog—like the exercises I’ve done, the food I’ve eaten, and more. But what truly made the difference was Simon’s knowledge and the accountability I developed to make the right choices. As a result, I’ve lost about 40 kg (almost 100 lbs!), gone from a 46-inch waist to a 28-inch, and seen immense improvements in my confidence, strength, and overall outlook on life.

So, why am I now pursuing coaching? Honestly, a big part of that is thanks to Simon. He has genuinely transformed my life for the better, and I want to share what I’ve learned from him to help others who might be in the same place I was three years ago.

The turning point for me came about a year ago. I overdid it at the gym and gave myself a hernia (great job, Ant!). The doctors told me I’d need to avoid the gym for 8–12 weeks. Cue meltdown mode. I panicked, convinced that all my progress would be undone and I’d slip back into my old habits. But one call with Simon changed everything. He calmed me down and reassured me that it wasn’t the end of the world. That moment was a revelation for me—I realized I wanted to be able to help others the way Simon had helped me.

And here I am now, about to start studying for my Certificate III and IV in Personal Training here in Sydney. My goals? First, to gain the knowledge to avoid injuring myself again (hello, hernia). Second, to get qualified so I can help someone else achieve what they might think is impossible.

That brings us to today. I’m far from where I started, but I now know I’m capable of so much more. This year, I’m determined to push myself mentally and physically, improve my physique, and start embodying the image of a coach. More than that, I want to enjoy the journey—to make the most of my fitter, healthier body and continue stepping outside my comfort zone to reach new goals.

So, watch this space! If you’re in the position I was three years ago and have questions, or if you’re a coach yourself with tips and tricks to share, please get in touch—I’d love to hear from you!

Cheers,

Ant

Conquering the Australian bush