Do I Need a Personal Trainer?
I’m a PT, so of course I’m going to say yes, you do. But here’s why I think you could benefit from personal training with a qualified trainer.
Because fitness should fit into your life, not take over it.
So, you’re thinking about getting fit. Getting a bit more exercise. Maybe getting a bit healthier, or losing a bit of weight.
Let's be honest. You've been here before, haven't you?
You set yourself up with the best intentions. You're going to get fit this time. Really fit. You buy some new trainers, maybe download an app, and you're buzzing with motivation.
Week one? Brilliant. You're smashing it.
Week two? Still going strong.
And then... life happens. Work gets hectic. The weather's rubbish. You miss a session. Then another. Before you know it, that "fresh start" has quietly faded into the background again.
Here's the thing: It's not your fault. Really.
It's not because you're lazy. It's not because you lack willpower. It's because motivation is brilliant when it shows up - but let's face it, the motivation isn’t always there when you need it.
Motivation loves the exciting bits. New gym membership? Buzzing! New training programme? Can't wait! But motivation doesn't always fancy sticking around when you've had a long day at work, the kids are acting up, or your week's gone a bit pear-shaped.
Making a change to your health and fitness takes time and commitment. Like anything that’s worth doing properly. That's why relying on motivation alone doesn't cut it. You need something more reliable. Something sustainable. And sometimes, you need someone in your corner.
What a Personal Trainer actually does (Hint: It's not just counting reps)
Forget the stereotypes. No shouting. No protein shake obsession. And definitely no burpees until you cry (unless you're into that sort of thing).
Here's what I actually do as a personal trainer:
I get to know you properly. Your lifestyle, your schedule, what you actually enjoy doing, and crucially - what you don't. Because fitness has to fit into your real life, not some Instagram-perfect version of it.
I build a routine that's realistic and enjoyable. If you dread your workout, you won't do it. Simple as that. So we find what works for you.
I help with nutrition in a way that's actually sustainable. Yes, that includes pizza. And bread. And all the other things some dodgy diet plans tell you to cut out forever. I enjoy them, you should be able to, too!
I keep you accountable without making you feel guilty. Life happens. I get it. But I'll be there checking in, listening, and helping you get back on track when things go wonky.
Sound familiar?
You might be thinking:
"I know what I should be doing… I just don't do it."
"I'm brilliant for the first week… then life gets in the way."
"I hate traditional gyms. What now?"
"I don't want to give up everything I enjoy eating."
"I don't have time for some hardcore training plan."
That's exactly where I come in. Not to take over your life, but to help you build something that actually works with your life and your commitments. Something achievable. Something you’ll enjoy. Something that will help you get the results your looking for.
So…why not just go it alone?
You absolutely could go solo. It’s useful to know what goals you should be setting and how to go about writing a training plan, but there are ways to do that. And if you’ve the determination and motivation to do it, that’s great.
But if you've been stuck in that frustrating start-stop cycle, or even find it a struggle to get started in the first place, here's how working with a PT helps:
A Fresh Perspective
Sometimes you need someone on the outside looking in. Someone objective, who can spot where you're overthinking things or (just as often!) where you're seriously underestimating yourself.
Consistency
When someone's expecting you to show up each week, you're far less likely to skip a workout. It's accountability, but without the guilt trip.
Expert Adjustments
Feeling tired? Hit a plateau? Just fed up with the whole thing? I can spot these early and tweak your plan before it all unravels. Because I've been there myself, and I know the warning signs. Making a big change is hard, sometimes you need to mix it up a bit.
Real Support
This isn't about me barking orders at you. It's about having someone who gets it, who'll listen when you're struggling, and who genuinely wants to see you succeed.
Real talk from real people
One of my clients told me: "I thought I needed to get in shape first before getting a PT. I was nervous I'd be judged or told off. Instead, I got a plan that fits my life, support when I need it, and a lot less guilt when life happens."
That's what it should be like. No judgment. No pressure. Just proper support. Here’s what some of my other clients say about doing PT sessions:
“I was slightly apprehensive about doing a PT but Mary-Anne put me at ease and I've not looked back since. She is knowledgeable, changes my workouts regularly and continually pushes me out of my comfort zone. ”
“All our sessions are tailored to suit me. It’s great fun and something I look forward to every week.”
“I never thought I’d be ‘the type’ to do PTs... Classes are good, but they need to suit a variety of people. My PTs are just for me. And I love it.”
“A 1-1 session is definitely the best thing for me. If anyone is thinking about it, please don’t think - just do it. You won’t regret it.”
“Mac is a fantastic PT, great motivator and always develops programmes that fit your levels.”
“Doing PT sessions with Mary-Anne has been the best decision I've made! I’ve never felt better, I have far more energy and I have dropped a clothes size. But most importantly, I am really enjoying it. The sessions are challenging but not too hard, and she plans for me, my level of fitness and my objectives. I’m so proud of the progress I’ve made!”
Common Questions (that you might be thinking)
Do I have to train every day?
Absolutely not. We work with what time you've actually got - 2 or 3 times a week is plenty for most people.Will you make me stop eating carbs?
No chance! I like bread, too. And pasta. And potatoes. Believe it or not, I’ve also been known to have a glass of wine! Carbs are not the enemy.What if I haven't exercised in years?
Then we start from exactly where you are right now. No shame, no pressure, no pretending you're fitter than you are.What if I'm just not motivated?
That's completely normal. Honestly, nobody is 100% motivated all of the time. Sometimes you just need to do it. That's why we build habits and routines that carry you through, even when your motivation's not there.
So, do you need a Personal Trainer?
If you're tired of starting over (again), struggling to stay consistent, or feeling a bit overwhelmed with where to even start...
And you want a plan that fits around real life, expert guidance without the guilt, and a bit of accountability from someone who actually gets it...
Then, yes - working with a personal trainer might be exactly what you need.
Thinking about doing it?
Let's have a no-pressure chat about your goals and how I can help. No scary diets, no 5am bootcamps, no celery juice required.
I'm Mary-Anne (Mac), and I work with people of all fitness levels across Helensburgh, Dumbarton, Alexandria, and Glasgow. Whether you're completely new to exercise or just need some support getting back into it, I'd love to help.