Could working with an Exercise Psychologist be right for you?
Are you tired of starting an exercise regime, only to find that once again you slip back into old habits? Suffering from 'exercise anxiety' or dread the idea of the gym? You know that regular exercise is important for your health, but for some reason this doesn't seem to be enough to motivate you to actually do it?! Perhaps you have tried so many times, you have now lost all confidence and don't know where to start?
Why not try a different approach?
Mindset matters. Having exercise psychology sessions can help you to understand what is really holding you back. They offer you the time to pro-actively consider and develop your mindset. I have supported countless clients to change the way they think about exercise and achieve goals they initially told me would be "impossible"!
Client A
"I've always found exercising difficult, not ever knowing if what I am doing is actually of any benefit and just generally not having much motivation. I was nervous and apprehensive - but from the moment I met Laura I was instantly put at ease. We put together goals with mini targets and I have got so much fitter. Laura has really changed the way I think about exercise. For anyone that's nervous about exercise like I was I'd say reach out to Laura."
I've never heard of an Exercise Psychologist - what would working with Laura be like?
If you have tried (and failed!) to stick with an exercise regime several (or perhaps many!) times, you will no doubt have noticed that there is much more to it than 'just doing it'. You may have even noticed 'mental blocks' cropping up yourself. Where a personal trainer will primarily support you with the physical side of your exercise routine, an exercise psychologist can help you with the mental challenges that may be holding you back. I am actually qualified as both, so whilst exercise psychology sessions with me are primarily mindset focused, I do bring practical knowledge and advice to the sessions also.
I work with clients primarily online, and initially my goal is to understand your individual struggles and where you would like to get to. We work collaboratively to uncover what is important to you about being able to exercise, and what is getting in the way. Together, we will identify achievable action steps and move you closer to where you want to be. I am very aware that working with an exercise psychologist is not yet something that everyone is aware of, and fully appreciate that you may feel apprehensive about it. I offer all potential new clients a 20-minute free-of-charge introductory meeting so that you can meet me and ask any questions you may have before making any commitment. You can arrange your today by contacting me here.
Learn more about Laura here
Client B
"I started from a very low base, having taken no serious exercise for over twenty years and had never set foot in a gym. I wanted to get fit but lacked confidence and didn't really know where to start. Laura has absolutely the right balance of pushing you and understanding your limits - particularly dealing with mental blocks! To my amazement, I can now run 5k and have signed up for my first race, something I never thought I would do."
Why choose to work with Laura?
Knowledgeable and qualified
I am a Chartered Sport and Exercise Psychologist registered with both the British Psychological Society (BPS) and Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC). I am also a qualified Personal Trainer and published researcher in the field of exercise adherence.
Experience with both the mental AND physical side of exercise
Having worked as a personal fitness trainer for over seven years and in exercise psychology for four, I have first hand experience of the challenges we face in relation to making regular exercise a part of our lives. I myself re-started exercise in my 30's after a long break. Now in my 40's, I know exactly how challenging it can be!
It is important to me to understand each client as an individual, tailoring my suggested approach based on a careful and considered analysis your personal challenges and goals. We are all unique, and my approach reflects that.
I care about helping YOU succeed
Client C
"I started working with Laura having had some time out from exercise but then realising how much I needed and wanted to get back to feeling fit, healthy and generally good about myself. Laura has been a breath of fresh air in working with me to achieve my goals. She has a wealth of knowledge and realism around healthy eating and lifestyle factors, I have found her approach to these things very refreshing as well as empowering. As well as achieving my body goals I feel more motivated, stronger and healthier."