4 April 2023

Meet the man who does an 80 hour a week – and loves every minute!

An interview with A40Fitness gym owner, George Garland.

Every member of A40Fitness knows they can rely on a friendly welcome from George – founder and owner of the Andoversford-based gym. But what motivates him to put in 80 hours a week – and keep on smiling?


After joining A40Fitness a few weeks ago, I had a chat with the man who puts his heart and soul into this up-and-coming gym. In our first interview, George shares why fitness is such a massive part of his life – and explains why he’s 100 per cent committed to helping members become fit for life. 


Q: Were you always into sports and fitness?


Absolutely. I grew up on an activity centre that my dad owned. So I was always taking part in activities like canoeing, kayaking, climbing and orienteering. And at school, it was rugby and football. Fundamentally, all sports you can imagine! 


Q: What was your first job in the fitness industry? 


A: My career in fitness started at Bannatynes gym in Cheltenham around 20 years ago. There were lots of development opportunities and training. I loved it. Working in that environment, with that group of people, was hands down the most fun time of my life. It was excellent to be hanging out with good people as well – it’s where I met my future wife, Hannah!


After that I worked at hotel gym spas and then solely in hotels. But I found my way back to the fitness industry, which I’m much more passionate about. 


Q: Why did you decide to set up your own gym?


A: I’d been thinking about it for a long time. We'd lived in Andoversford for a fair few years and knew this industrial estate would be the perfect location. It’s so close to the A40, but we had to wait for the ideal unit or space. Just as we were coming out of lockdown, this site came up. With a great reception area, large parking zone and being really accessible, it just seemed like the perfect opportunity to give it a go. 


Q: What 3 words would you use to describe A40Fitness?


A: Friendly. Supportive. Fitness. Everything we do is about helping our members improve their fitness and get exercising. Whether it be for strength, mobility or rehabilitation, we want to support our members in getting fit – fit for life. 


Q: How many hours do you work?


A: About 80 hours a week, most weeks. I have a little respite here and there, but it's hands down the most I’ve worked on a weekly basis! Even though in hospitality you work a fair few hours, this is a totally different feeling. Being in an environment that you're comfortable in. Being surrounded by people that are nice and happy and enthusiastic, whether it be about training or just generally in life. So it’s pretty much, 80 hours of enjoyment!


Q: I’ve heard you call A40Fitness your home from home. Why do you see your gym like that? 


A: Number 1, it’s because I’m here so much of the time! And number 2, it’s because we’re really fortunate with the people who’ve joined us. It really does feel like we’re a growing gym family. I've always been terrible with names, but actually it's now becoming much more natural to me. I feel so much happier that I can use our members’ names as they come in, because I know them. I like them. And I enjoy helping them.


Q: So is your family into fitness?


A: Yes, Hannah my wife is into fitness. She's run a variety of triathlons and we ran the London Marathon together in 2010 just before we got married. She takes part in classes down here too, even bringing our four-month-old son, Finn, with her!


Having my family come down to the gym adds to the pleasure of being here. My older kids, Noah and Alice, love it. They feel happy. It’s their daddy’s place. Noah comes here with his mates and plays basketball or football in our outside space. It’s brilliant. Alice loves the Zumba classes on Saturdays. And she loves Lucy, the Zumba teacher too! 


Q: Would you say that the gym is a family endeavour?


A: Yes, definitely. My family love being involved. Alice tells me off every now and again when I don't wake her up to come down and open the gym with me. She looks after the place and rules the roost!


I’m the person who puts in the hours here, but I couldn’t do it without my wife Hannah looking after the children and looking after the house and looking after me and everyone else! She also runs our social media too.   


Q: To me, as a member, A40Fitness feels like much friendlier and more supportive place than some of the cold corporate gyms I've been to. Is that important to you?


A: It’s really, really important. When we were setting up the gym, we talked about barriers and how we could try and remove them. You've got a few logistical things like free parking very close, changing room facilities, and good equipment but actually having a welcoming environment is just as important. For those who have never been to a gym before or are uncomfortable in a gym environment, it’s especially important that they’re comfortable interacting with the people here. We are very fortunate with the good people we have here, from our instructors to our members. Everyone is really nice, which helps to create a welcoming atmosphere. To me, that’s 100 per cent really important. 


Q: What would you say are the pros of running your own gym?


A: Definitely meeting loads and loads of nice people. Being able to stay fit and healthy naturally – even teaching the classes keeps me on my toes. Having something that's your own, something you're responsible for. It’s nice to have something to feel proud of. 


Q: What about the cons?


A: You want to provide lovely kit, a great space that everyone really enjoys, with a variety of instructors, but all that adds up. So balancing the books would be the only down side. 80 hours a week, I don’t mind that. That’s no drama! 


Q: How do you feel about the gym you’ve created?


A: I love it. I’m absolutely so proud of it. 


Q: How would you describe yourself? 


A: Much the same way I described my gym – friendly, supportive and all about fitness.  I’m really passionate about supporting people with their fitness goals. That’s why I’m here – to help everyone who wants to get fit, strong, healthy, mobile and rehabilitated, do exactly that and enjoy life.


A massive thanks to George for taking the time out from his busy day to chat. I, for one, can vouch that he remembers my name – and he’s helping me on my path to getting fit for life!


If you want a hand to reach your fitness goals, get in touch with George today. He’d be more than happy to chat fitness!


Keep up with the A40Fitness family on Facebook 

Staying on your fitness journey: Keeping up momentum after the New Year

29 February 2024
Hey there, A40 members! As the January hype fades into February, the initial surge of New Year's resolutions may start to dwindle. But fear not! Maintaining your exercise routine is not only achievable but also incredibly rewarding. Let's dive into some tips and tricks to keep that motivation soaring and those gym sessions consistent. 1. Embrace the challenge: Let's be real – sticking to an exercise routine can be tough. Life gets busy, motivation wanes, and the allure of the sofa can be oh-so-tempting in these cold winter months. But remember, every journey has its bumps, and getting through them is what builds resilience and strength, both physically and mentally. Embrace the challenge, knowing that each workout is a step closer to your goals. 2. Mix it up: Variety is the spice of life – and the key to keeping your workouts fresh and exciting. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Whether it's a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class, yoga session, or even a dance workout, experimenting with different activities can reignite your passion for fitness and prevent boredom from creeping in. We’ve never had a more exciting range of classes here at A40 Fitness, so check them out here . 3. Update your programme: If you've been following the same workout routine since the dawn of time (or at least since January 1st), it might be time for a refresh. Have a chat with one of our friendly gym instructors or personal trainers to create a tailored programme that challenges you and aligns with your fitness goals. A well-designed programme not only keeps things interesting but also ensures you're making progress and seeing results. 4. Seek support: Working out with others can be a game-changer when it comes to motivation. Whether it's joining a group fitness class, roping in a workout buddy, or hiring a personal trainer, surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can provide the encouragement you need to stay on track – and even spark new friendships. 5. Little and often: Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining an exercise routine. Instead of aiming for marathon gym sessions once a week, focus on incorporating shorter workouts into your daily routine. Even just 20 minutes of exercise a day can make a world of difference. Remember, it's about progress, not perfection. So there you have it – the secrets to staying committed to your exercise routine beyond the New Year. Embrace the challenge, mix it up, update your programme, seek support, and remember that consistency is key. By incorporating these strategies into your fitness journey, you'll not only stay motivated but also reap the countless benefits of regular exercise. Here's to reaching your gym goals with A40 Fitness and making 2024 your fittest year yet!

A big shout-out to A40Fitness members

22 December 2023
“Good people bring out the good in other people.” A successful gym isn’t just about having the latest equipment, amazing classes, or even supportive staff – it’s about our members. Yes, you! The people who choose to train, week after week, and give it their all. That’s why, here at A40Fitness, we’re celebrating our members. (If you’re not a member yet, why not join today? We can’t wait to welcome you in!) A big thank you It’s you who makes our gym the vibrant, friendly, welcoming place it is – and we can’t thank you enough for all your support over 2023. It’s been an awesome year, and that’s all down to you! But what is it about A40Fitness members that’s so special? “Find a group of people who challenge and inspire you, spend time with them, and it will change your life.” Amy Poehler. A positive attitude We feel pretty lucky, because when it comes to attitude you’re brimming with positivity. You’re ‘can do’ people – but if you’re struggling to get going one day, you can rely on another member to give you a boost. You’re not about ego or judgement, you’re a genuine bunch who bring out the best in each other. Awesome commitment No one said exercising to reach your goals is easy – it takes commitment and dedication. It’s not about how many times you come to the gym, although we’re happy to see you as often as you can. It’s about committing to that workout or class when you’re here. 100% effort Every day at the gym, we can see (and hear) the effort going into your workouts. The determined faces. The sweat. And let’s face it, some of you are noisier than others! But that’s good – it means you’re pushing yourself. You’re working hard and for that, we commend you. Celebrating results We love it when you share your goals with us – and even more, when you reach them! Whatever they may be – growing stronger, getting fitter, toning up, losing weight, feeling happier – we’re proud of you because we know how hard you’re working to get there. Smiles all around Let’s face it – you’re a friendly crowd. You know how it is in some gyms: members are too worried about looking cool to break a smile. Well, you’re different. You’re still cool, of course, but you’ve always got a ready smile! You’re up for a laugh. And there’s plenty of bants. We know everyone’s different. And if you want to come along and quietly do your thing, we totally respect that. We’re behind every single one of our A40Fitness members. We appreciate your custom, we’re here for you and we celebrate your success. We believe you all deserve a pat on the back for your amazing hard work. And we’d like to wish you a happy and healthy festive season – and all the best for the year ahead.

The game-changing benefits of having a personal trainer!

24 October 2023
Hello, fitness enthusiasts! If you've ever wondered how to turbocharge your fitness journey and make those gym sessions count, you're in the right place. In today's blog, we're diving into the super-healthy world of personal trainers and why having one by your side can be the best thing you do for your health and wellness. So, grab your workout gear and let's get started! In the A40Fitness team , George, Anna and Harry are three of our personal trainers, ready and waiting to make your fitness journey more enjoyable and successful. The perfect companion to your training regime Through 1-2-1 sessions, they’ll be your secret weapon to break through plateaus and make your fitness routine exciting again. A study by the UK Active Research Institute revealed that 82% of gym-goers who had a personal trainer attended the gym regularly. So if you’re stuck in a workout rut or struggling to see the results you desire, get in touch. George, Anna or Harry will customise your workouts, keeping them fresh and challenging. No more mindlessly wandering from one machine to another – they'll craft a tailored plan just for you. A roadmap to achieving your fitness goals Setting goals is easy, but reaching them can be a challenge. Whether you're aiming to lose weight, build muscle, or improve your overall fitness, a personal trainer is your GPS to success. They provide you with expert guidance, track your progress, and adjust your plan when needed. With their support, you'll conquer your goals with confidence. In a survey by PureGym, it was found that individuals working with a personal trainer were 25-30% more likely to achieve their fitness goals compared to those who didn't use a trainer. Boosting your mental health Exercise is not just about the body – it's also a fantastic way to improve mental health. A personal trainer can be your motivator and stress reliever, all in one. Research conducted by YouGov found that 58% of respondents in the UK reported improved mental well-being and reduced stress levels after working with a personal trainer. Our personal trainers will encourage you when you're feeling low and celebrate your achievements with you. This emotional support is invaluable in helping you stay on track and maintain a positive mindset. As Harry says, it’s all about, “Helping people move, look and most importantly feel better. So if you want to better your mental state, I am your man.” Enhancing physical health and safety Safety always comes first, and our personal trainers are certified professionals who prioritise your well-being. George, Anna and Harry will ensure that you're using proper form and techniques to minimise the risk of injuries. Plus, they can design workouts tailored to your specific needs, accommodating any existing health concerns you might have. According to a report by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), personal trainers play a crucial role in educating individuals about proper technique and reducing the risk of injuries during exercise. It’s all about you The beauty of having an A40Fitness personal trainer is the personalisation they offer. They understand that your needs and preferences are unique. So, whether you're into yoga, strength training, or a mix of both, they'll craft a plan that suits your style. No more one-size-fits-all solutions! Your personal trainer – your fitness ally! If you're still on the fence about getting a personal trainer, consider this your push in the right direction. They're your fitness mentor, your cheerleader, and your confidant all rolled into one. With their guidance, you'll reach your goals faster, stay motivated, and ensure that your fitness journey is both enjoyable and safe. So, don't hesitate to enlist their help and watch your fitness dreams become a reality. Your body and mind will thank you for it! As Anna says, “A healthy lifestyle is much more than just lifting weights. It’s about stretching, warming up, eating healthy, getting necessary rest and enough sleep. I make it my goal to help you achieve a happy and well-balanced lifestyle.” Don't wait– take the plunge and get ready to unlock your full potential with an A40Fitness personal trainer by your side. Your fitness journey is about to get a whole lot more exciting! Your A40Fitness Personal Trainer will have a core fee but will tailor their offer to the individual, taking into consideration volume of sessions booked. We recommend regular sessions of course, but each person is different with a varied base fitness and end goals. So, our Personal Trainers are flexible and ready to support you on your journey to an improved wellbeing.
More posts