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Published by Claire Winter
The Lift the Bar Podcast is a place where personal trainers can gain education, insight and knowledge from other personal trainers. It's aim is to provide personal trainers with the know-how and inspiration to build the kind of career they want to build. Every week the show will feature interviews with fantastic guests who are at the top of their game in different areas specific to helping personal trainers.
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From the feed
The latest episodes published to this podcast’s own RSS feed. Titles and descriptions are the publisher’s.
This episode explores how stepping into unfamiliar fitness environments can be one of the most valuable learning experiences for coaches. Claire and Maggie reflect on the difference between feeling welcomed and supported versus judged and overlooked, and what those experiences reveal about great coaching. From onboarding and communication to managing group dynamics and individual attention, they discuss practical ways fitness professionals can create spaces where every client feels seen, included, and confident from day one. Along the way, they examine how both positive and negative experiences have shaped their own coaching philosophy and approach to client care. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
What does it really mean when something is described as "evidence-based"? In this episode, Claire and Maggie explore how to evaluate research and separate credible evidence from misleading claims. From peer review and study design to conflicts of interest, sample size, and the hierarchy of evidence, they break down the key factors that determine whether research can be trusted. Along the way, they discuss media misrepresentation, the difference between correlation and causation, and why curiosity, healthy scepticism, and checking evidence from multiple perspectives are essential skills in today's information-rich world. Whether you're navigating fitness advice, wellness trends, or health headlines, this episode will help you become a more confident consumer of research. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
Are you marketing your personal training business to people like you... or to the people you actually want to serve? In this episode, Claire and Maggie explore a common mistake many trainers make: assuming their clients think, act, and make decisions the same way they do. They discuss how this mindset can impact marketing, communication, and pricing, often leading trainers to undervalue their services and miss opportunities to connect with their ideal audience. The conversation dives into understanding client motivations, gathering honest feedback, using client stories effectively, and building confidence in pricing based on value rather than assumptions. If you're a personal trainer looking to attract more of the right clients and charge with confidence, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you align your messaging, pricing, and business decisions with what your clients truly value.
What does it take to train clients outside the gym? In this episode, Claire and Maggie explore the realities of outdoor personal training, from navigating unpredictable weather and park distractions to creating engaging workouts with minimal equipment. Maggie shares how she built a successful outdoor PT business, attracted clients who love being active outdoors, and adapted sessions on the fly to make the most of any environment. Whether you're a trainer considering taking your sessions outside or simply curious about the benefits of outdoor fitness, this episode offers practical insights, business tips, and plenty of real-world experience. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
In this episode, Maggie and Claire discuss the latest UK public health guidance on physical activity and what it means for coaches, trainers, and everyday people. They explore the shift away from rigid exercise targets toward a more inclusive message: any movement is better than none. Together, they discuss why language matters and how professionals can help clients build sustainable, enjoyable habits that support health beyond weight loss. The conversation also highlights the importance of strength, balance, reducing sedentary time, and addressing the real-world barriers that can make movement difficult for many people. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
GLP-1s are transforming the weight loss landscape, and personal trainers need to understand what that means for their clients. In this episode, Claire and Maggie explore how medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy work, their impact on appetite, muscle and bone health, and the importance of recognising under-fuelling. They discuss the role of personal trainers in supporting clients with strength, nutrition awareness, and non-judgmental coaching, while navigating the wider issues of weight stigma, bias, and scope of practice in the fitness industry. A practical and thought-provoking conversation for any coach working with clients using GLP-1 medications. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
In this episode, Claire and Maggie dive into the world of kettlebell training, exploring their versatility, unique benefits, and why they've stood the test of time in the fitness industry. From common concerns like wrist pain and swing technique to favourite exercises such as the snatch, clean, and Turkish getup, Maggie shares her experience and practical tips for getting the most out of this powerful training tool. Whether you're new to kettlebells or a long-time fan, this episode highlights why they remain a valuable addition to any training programme. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
AI is everywhere but is it helping or hindering coaches and fitness professionals? In this episode, Claire and Maggie share their honest experiences using AI tools such as Claude and ChatGPT in their businesses and everyday work. They discuss how AI can be a powerful tool for brainstorming ideas, proofreading content, challenging assumptions, and saving time on repetitive tasks, while also exploring its limitations, biases, and tendency to get things wrong. The conversation highlights why critical thinking, expertise, and human connection remain irreplaceable in coaching and personal training. Rather than seeing AI as a replacement for professionals, Claire and Maggie argue that its greatest value lies in acting as a supportive "critical friend", helping spark ideas and enhance productivity while keeping humans firmly in control.
Do personal trainers really need a niche and if so, what does that actually mean? In this episode, Claire and Maggie challenge the traditional approach to niche marketing and explore why focusing on demographics may be less effective than understanding the people you genuinely enjoy helping. They discuss authenticity, client feedback, evolving business identities, and how the right clients are often attracted by clear messaging rather than a tightly defined target market. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
What does it really take to support clients living with chronic pain and fatigue? In this episode, Claire and Maggie explore the complex, biopsychosocial nature of chronic pain and discuss why exercise is only one piece of the puzzle. They unpack the differences between chronic pain, chronic fatigue, and post-exertional malaise (PEM) associated with conditions such as ME/CFS and long COVID, highlighting why generic "no pain, no gain" approaches can do more harm than good. Together, they share practical guidance on communication, exercise programming, scope of practice, and building truly client-centred support, while emphasizing the importance of flexibility, collaboration, and respecting clients as experts in their own bodies. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
How much programming is too much programming? In this episode, Claire and Maggie unpack their evolving approaches to personal training programming, from overcomplicated plans and periodisation spreadsheets to flexible, client-centred frameworks that actually work in the real world. They explore the balance between structure and adaptability, why general population clients need a different approach from athletes, and how focusing on core movement patterns can simplify decision-making while still delivering great results. Plus, they share practical tips for session planning, tracking progress, and creating programmes that fit clients' goals, preferences, and busy lives. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
In this episode, Claire and Maggie discuss eating disorders and disordered eating, including the often-overlooked intersection between the fitness industry and eating disorders. Maggie shares insights from her new course for personal trainers, breaking down the spectrum from diagnosable conditions like anorexia and bulimia to more subtle forms of disordered eating. Together, they unpack how well-intentioned coaching around weight loss and discipline can sometimes reinforce harmful patterns, and how to spot the difference between healthy habits and red flags like rigid food rules or compensatory exercise. This conversation is a must-listen for fitness professionals looking to support clients with compassion, challenge their own biases, and create a more flexible, client-centered approach without stepping outside their scope of practice. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
In this episode, Claire sits down with Ben Jones, a personal trainer with 17 years of experience, to explore his journey from gym owner to running a thriving one-to-one coaching business from a small training space in Hertfordshire. Ben shares why he stepped away from the pressures of managing a successful fitness studio to focus on what he loves most, helping clients achieve life-changing results through straightforward, effective training. Together, they discuss the power of simplicity in coaching, working with clients in their 40s, 50s and 60s, the challenges of balancing parenthood with entrepreneurship, and the importance of setting clear boundaries around work and family life. Ben also reflects on mentorship, avoiding the trap of comparison, and staying connected to your "why" in the fitness industry. Packed with practical insights and honest reflections, this conversation is a valuable listen for personal trainers and fitness professionals looking to build a sustainable, rewarding career. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
In this episode, Claire and Maggie explore how personal trainers can better support clients with undiagnosed ADHD and other neurodivergent traits. They unpack the barriers to formal diagnosis and explain why many clients may never use clinical labels, even when they relate to the symptoms. The conversation highlights how ADHD often presents differently in women, particularly during perimenopause, and challenges common assumptions about behaviours like lateness, inconsistency, or lack of focus. Rather than being intentional, these are often rooted in neurological differences such as time blindness, distraction, or difficulty with routine. They shares practical, real-world strategies for coaches, including flexible goal-setting focused on immediate wins, adapting environments to reduce distractions, and recognising the impact of rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD). They emphasise the importance of clear, varied communication, autonomy in decision-making, and breaking tasks into manageable steps. Above all, the episode encourages trainers to approach clients with curiosity, compassion, and openness, moving away from judgement and towards truly personalised support that meets people where they are.
In this episode of LTB Podcast, Claire and Maggie unpack how constant comparison within the fitness industry fuels imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and indecision. They explore how trainers absorb unrealistic "shoulds" from peers and marketing, leading to overthinking and a loss of confidence. Sharing practical strategies, they encourage trainers to refocus on their own clients, values, and priorities, building confidence through aligned actions rather than chasing external standards of success. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
In this episode Claire and Maggie explore what it really means to take a trauma‑informed approach to coaching in fitness spaces. They unpack how assuming every client may carry some form of past trauma shifts the focus from "fixing" individuals to creating environments that feel safe, supportive, and empowering for everyone. Claire and Maggie also discuss how to recognise signs of discomfort, respond with empathy, and provide alternatives without putting clients on the spot. Ultimately, they show that trauma‑informed coaching isn't about doing more, it's about doing things differently, putting clients in control, and building a culture of trust, respect, and autonomy in every session. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
In this episode, Claire sits down with Maggie to unpack the realities of setting up and running a Community Interest Company (CIC) as a personal trainer. Maggie shares what a CIC actually is, why she chose this route, and how it's allowed her to deliver meaningful, community‑focused work alongside a sustainable business model. They explore the practical side of getting started, from choosing directors and registering with Companies House to navigating bank accounts, grants, and reporting requirements. Maggie also highlights the importance of balancing funding with trading income, involving members in decision‑making, and staying organised with the admin side of things. If you've ever considered taking your PT business in a more community‑driven direction, this episode offers a grounded, honest look at what's involved and what to think about before you begin. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
Claire and Maggie explore how personal trainers can coach runners more effectively, whether they're complete beginners or chasing a new PB. You'll hear practical frameworks for building a runner from the ground up (progressions, run–walk intervals, technique cues, and effort-based pacing), plus how to layer in energy-system work, hills/sprints, and strength training without compromising run quality. They also dig into long-distance prep, including time on feet, fuelling, hydration and tapering. Whether you regularly coach runners, are adjusting to a new goal from an existing client or are preparing for a new client, this conversation highlights the power of personalised coaching and the small changes that can make a big difference. Find Out More About LTB Membership Where You Can Find More Resources Aimed At Training Runers: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
Hayley Simpson, known locally as the Yoga Lady, has built something genuinely special in Prestwich, North Manchester. Her Ofsted-registered kids holiday clubs bring together movement, play, and a whole lot of joy, and in this episode she pulls back the curtain on exactly how she did it. Maggie sits down with Hayley to trace the journey from running a yoga business to creating a holiday provision that parents trust and children love. They get into the real nuts and bolts: what it actually takes to make a kids club financially viable, the safeguarding and staffing considerations that can't be an afterthought, why Hayley chose the Ofsted registration route and what that process really involves. But this episode isn't just a business case study. At its heart, it's about what happens when you build something around genuine passion. Hayley talks openly about the joy the clubs bring her every single time they run and why that matters as much as any spreadsheet. Whether you're a fitness professional curious about diversifying into children's provision, or someone who's ever wondered what it really takes to run a registered kids activity business, this one's well worth your time. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
Does cycle syncing actually improve training outcomes or is it being oversold? In this episode, Claire and Maggie dig into the science and real‑world realities of menstrual cycles and training. They explore what the research really says (including why many cycle‑based programming claims don't hold up), while also recognising that lived experience, symptoms, and perception still matter in the gym. This conversation helps personal trainers move away from rigid rules and towards empathetic, client‑led coaching that treats menstrual cycles as a normal part of life, not something that needs over‑medicalising or one‑size‑fits‑all solutions. Find Out More About LTB Membership: Website: https://liftthebar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftthebar
Ranking source
Apple Podcasts rankings via the Mato Topic Intelligence Platform.
Observed September 18, 2026. Cached outside the daily freshness window; the positions keep the date they were taken on.
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