Plymouth (The Devonshire, Derriford) Health & Racquets Club

Personal Training at The Devonshire Health & Racquets Club

Are you seeking specialist advice on how to reach your health goals? One-to-one sessions with one of our qualified personal trainers could help.

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Our staff at Devonshire

James Bayliss

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

From achieving a degree in sport and exercise science, to previous service and active military service, James has an extensive knowledge base of how to implement effective yet enjoyable training programmes and sessions.

As well as gym-based programming, James has a background in martial arts, specifically kickboxing and Muay Thai and has worked with clients who have a wide variety of different requirements and ability levels. His goal is to ensure programmes and sessions are engaging through novel and varied experiences, as well as providing continual support and advice outside of sessions.

My qualifications

  • BSc (Hons) Degree - Sport & Exercise Science
  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 2 Gym Instructor
  • Serving Armed Forces Reservist

What my Clients say:

"I get so bored trying to do Cardio in the gym! So, I decided to do a number of sessions with James and actually loived it! Our Cardio sessions were focused around Kickboxing and padwork, which was really hard work but great fun so it didn't feel like an effort. James is a really nice guy, great coach and used his degree knowledge to structure our sessions so it was managable and offered me guidance in all areas of my health. Try one session, you won't regret it!" - Paul

Lauren Chamberlaine

Fitness & Wellbeing Manager

How can I help you improve your health?

Lauren holds a true passion for fitness and has been a Powerlifter now for 3 years. As a Level 4 Strength and Conditioning Coach, she has a great knowledge of advanced programming, nutrition, mobility and sports psychology.

Lauren understands that one of the main issues that many people face during their fitness journey is consistency. She works with her clients to find a style of training that they enjoy and designs personalised programmes that are easy to follow and effective.

Lauren is dedicated to her clients, helping them to improve their physical and mental wellbeing through fitness. Whether you want to lose weight, build muscle or improve performance, Lauren will work with you to help you reach your goal.

My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 4 in Strength & Conditioning
  • Level 2 in Gym Instructing

What my Clients say:

“When you first join up with a personal trainer it’s always daunting, but I honestly couldn’t recommend Lauren enough. She has helped me build confidence not only in myself, but through every session, helping me grow stronger and build my knowledge in the gym.” – Lowri Gibbons

James Hunt

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

James prides himself on committing to a client’s personal development whilst also making exercise fun, functional and safe.

Competing at an international level in Tae-Kwon-Do and regionally in Handball has allowed James to develop an exceptionally strong base of knowledge which has been enhanced by his BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy degree.

With experience working with young professional athletes, the older population and injured clients, James not only has the capabilities to allow your physical fitness to soar but can also assist in injury recovery. With commitment, hard work and dedication there truly is nothing stopping you from achieving your goals.

My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 2 Gym Instructor
  • BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy

What my Clients say:

“James is a massive help in the gym, his knowledge is second to none and he has a natural ability to put you at ease. James made training fun yet challenging and gave me the confidence to workout again after a shoulder injury, he has improved my day-to-day life massively and I’m sure he can do the same for many others!” - Joe Maloney

David Jack

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

My goal is to have the most positive impact that I can on the lives of the people that I work with; helping them become the healthiest, happiest version of themselves.

This goes way beyond helping people look the best they ever have, that’s a given, this also covers performance, mindset, motivation and lifestyle.

I’m passionate about helping people find the right balance for them, which means that they can enjoy their lives to the fullest whilst looking, feeling and performing how they want to.

I love a good fun challenge and have completed Men’s Health Survival of the Fittest, Rat Race Man vs Mountain and over 10 Tough Mudder's with friends and have trained and supported clients to overcome their fears through to the finish line! I’ve currently got a team for Tough Mudder South West and am looking for anyone else interested to take on the challenge and cross that finish line with me. 

My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 2 Fitness Instructor
  • Kettlebells Instructor
  • Indoor Group Cycle Instructor
  • Les Mills GRIT Instructor
  • Recovery Plus Trainer
  • Advanced Programme Design
  • Movement Screening

What my Clients say:

"I met David 2 years ago when I decided I needed to do something about my weight and health. I have never liked going to the gym as I have always felt stupid and very conscious of people looking at me. David broke down those barriers. He keeps me motivated and when I start to flag you can guarantee David will be there. David has encouraged, praised and supported me; I will never forget his belief in me and I couldn’t wish for a better PT." 

Paul Johnson

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

If you're prepared to put in the work, Paul has all the knowledge and experience to help you achieve any realistic goal! He has over 10,000 hours experience in delivering Personal Training sessions and is Nuffield Health's National Lead for Clinical Fitness, guaranteeing you the best possible service. 

He is a Certified Nutritionist and holds a Level 4 in Specialist Exercise for Obesity & Diabetes, making him an expert in fat loss and getting you lean. 

Too injured to start PT, how about Rehab? Paul has a 1st Class Bachelor's Degree in Rehabilitation in Sport & Exercise and is registered with the British Association of Sport Rehabilitators and Trainers. He also holds a Level 4 in Specialist Exercise for Low Back Pain, so why not get injury free as you get lean?

Other specialist areas include:

  • Muscle gain
  • Pre/Post natal
  • Strength and conditioning
  • Performance nutrition. 

Weighing 86kg at 13 years old, spending nearly a decade in sedentary, office-based jobs; and now being a dad to a lively two-year-old, Paul has unique insight into the challenges and confusion that everyday people face when trying to make healthier choices. He is now a 16x Tough Mudder Finisher, Spartan Trifecta Finisher, previously competed in Mixed Martial Artist (MMA) and holds a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ).

Please Note: Paul splits his time between the Devonshire gym and our London HQ and therefore has very limited availability. It is recommended that you email on paul.johnson3@nuffielhealth.com to check availability before purchasing any PT packages. 

My qualifications

  • 1st Class BSc (Hons) Degree - Rehabilitation in Sport & Exercise
  • MNU Level 5 Diploma in Nutrtional Sciences
  • BACPR Level 4 Exercise Specialist in Cardiac Rehab
  • Level 4 Exercise Specialist in Obesity & Diabetes
  • Level 4 Exercise Specialist in Low Back Pain
  • Level 4 in Strength & Conditioning
  • FHT Level 4 in Soft Tissue Therapy
  • Level 3 in Exercise for Pre & Post Natal
  • Level 3 in GP Exercise Referral
  • Level 2 in Fitness Instruction
  • Level 1 ZUU & Ankorr Instructor
  • Level 1 Power Plate
  • Kettlebell Instructor
  • TRX (Suspension Training) Instructor
  • Strength & Conditioning Coach for Mixed Martial Arts

What my Clients say:

“Thank you for everything Paul, I wouldn’t have ever attempted Tough Mudder if I hadn’t met you or been fit enough or mentally prepared if you hadn’t trained me, but I did things I never dreamt I’d be able to do and for that I’m forever thankful!” - Jane

“I love food and struggled with weight for years but you have showed me how to get the weight off and keep it off and I’m stronger, leaner and healthier than I’ve ever been - I’ll never look back!” - Danielle

“Paul, inspired me to make many lifestyle changes. Through his knowledge and passion, he taught me to view exercise as a pleasure and not just a chore.” - Jude

Grace Jordan

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

Grace has been in the leisure industry for 6+ years. Racing at national level cycling and county level swimming, she is now a BTF Level 1 Triathlon Coach, BC Level 1 Cycling Coach and Level 3 Personal Trainer.

As a serving Army Reservist, Grace also offers bootcamp style training for those who are looking for a fun and effective way to achieve their goals.

Grace is an enthusiastic and supportive all-round Personal Trainer who is passionate about helping you enjoy your personal training sessions, through motivation, confidence, and transformational lifestyle changes.

My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 2 Gym Instructor
  • BTF Level 1 Triathlon Coach
  • BC Level 1 Cycling Coach
  • Gym Based Boxing Instructor
  • Metabolic Circuits Instructor
  • Studio Cycling Instructor

Jon Kennedy

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

Jon is a retired Police Officer and Physical Training Instructor. He has spent over 30 years involved in sport, playing football, rugby and boxing to a high level. As he (and his children got older), Jon become interested in athletics and started to compete in middle to long-distance running and extreme sports. These days, his passions are mountaineering and scuba diving.

Jon specialises in endurance and aerobic training where the emphasis is always on fun first. Last year, he supported his 77-year-old Uncle in climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and walking the entire SW coastal path.

If you'd like to improve your health and fitness or need support tackling your next big adventure, Jon would love to help.

My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 2 Gym Instructor
  • Level 2 Athletics Coach
  • ABA Boxing Coach
  • Aerobics instructor
  • Retired Police PTI

What my Clients say:

“I thought my adventure days were over when I hit my 70s but Jon convinced me they didn’t have to be with the right training. After training with Jon, with his support, I was able to complete a bucket list dream of climbing Africa’s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, at 77 years old” – Ernie.

“Seven marathons in seven days in seven different countries completed in October 2021. Without Jon, I would have seriously struggled. To summarize  Jon constructed an extensive training plan, reviewed and tweaked my diet to maximise my training, increased my strength endurance and ensured I had all the tools to complete this arduous task. Whilst competing in this event Jon continually supported and encouraged me. He also nominated me for a Lord Mayors special award which I am receiving next month. Next year I will be running John O’Groats to Land’s End and I’ve just asked Jon to help me” – Catherine M.

Brendan Lightfoot

Wellbeing Lead

How can I help you improve your health?

After graduating in 2000 with a degree in Sport Science, Brendan has trained as a Marine at RM Lympstone followed by acquiring 15 years health and fitness industry experience in a variety of roles.

With Brendan’s passion for coaching and his overriding objective of supporting people you will work together on creating challenging and realistic wellbeing goals designed in accelerating your success in your fitness journey.

He can support dedicated, enthusiastic people with goals of improving weight loss, strength and conditioning, core strength, injury rehabilitation and sports specific training.


My qualifications

  • BSc (Hons) Sports Science
  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 2 Gym Instructor
  • Level 2 Circuit Trainer
  • Recovery Plus Trainer
  • Level 1 Football Coach

What my Clients say:

"I started to attend the Devonshire Sports and Racquet Club following a total hip replacement at the Plymouth Nuffield Hospital. I was given a three month free membership. I first met Brendon in January of this year when he assessed my fitness and worked up a programme of exercise to improve my mobility and overall level of fitness. I am not a natural athlete and was a somewhat reluctant participant. Brendon was a great motivator and really encouraged me, his encouragement and fitness programme started to pay dividends. I subsequently joined the gym in March and Brendon continues to monitor my progress and amend my programme. I go three times a week and thanks to Brendon my health and fitness continues to improve.

I am very grateful to him. Subsequently my daughter has also joined the Devonshire" - Bob Mills


Jero Mariani

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

Jero has a passion for the gym and has been a Powerlifter for eight years, with his performance in the sport currently classified as elite. He has spent time training in many different gyms around the world, where he has learnt world-class training methods and techniques. He studied Sports Science in Spain for three years so has a great knowledge of nutrition, training systems, anatomy and sports psychology.

When not working, he is researching the latest trends and will use everything he knows to help you make a positive change in your life. With a mixture of patience and honesty, Jero is adaptable for all abilities and will help his clients achieve the best version of themselves in and out of the gym.

Working together, he asks for 100% consistency and dedication for guaranteed results.

My qualifications

  • Level 3 in Personal Training
  • Level 2 in Fitness Instruction
  • Advanced Programme Design
  • Movement Screening

What my Clients say:

“Jero is clearly passionate about his personal training, especially the art of powerlifting. He is always punctual and articulate when imparting his knowledge. He tailors his style to match individual needs – he is patient, encouraging and motivating” – Susie

“I am a 61-year-old woman with an unstable knee problem, very weak lower and upper body strength, hoping to improve my balance, mobility and fitness. Jero made me feel very much at ease and reassured me. I would strongly recommend Jero to anyone wanting a Personal Trainer; he is very friendly, professional and shows that he cares.” – Shirley

 


Libby Pender

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

As a competitive powerlifter holding 3 world records and named British and European Champion, Libby’s true passion is strength training. 

Working with a range of clients, Libby specialises in perfecting techniques to help you move safely and effectively whilst building confidence in a gym environment. Whether your aim is to lose weight, build muscle or increase strength, Libby is dedicated to helping clients fall in love with fitness and the feeling of being strong.


With customised programming, nutritional advice and mobility assessments, Libby will be with you every step of the way as you work towards your goals and improve your quality of life.

My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 2 Gym Instructor

What my Clients say:

"I’ve been going to the gym on and off for years but when I was introduced to Libby and weight training, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Libby spent time with me showing me all of the machines that I had never used, went through all of the benefits of them and wrote me a plan to reach my goals. I have been very pleased with my progress so far. I would highly recommend Libby." – Denise

Sam Quinn

Personal Training Lead

How can I help you improve your health?

I believe hard work and dedication is required to achieve results. The results you deserve will depend on your consistent hard work in the gym and your ability to follow the plan I set for you.

I am an experienced Personal Trainer and Strength and Conditioning Coach specialising in

  • Fat Loss
  • Hypertrophy
  • Strength and Conditioning
  • Nutrition
  • Olympic Weightlifting
  • Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation.


My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • BSc (Hons) Degree - Health & Fitness
  • FdSc Foundation Degree - Strength, Conditioning and Sports Coaching
  • Level 1 ZUU & Ankorr Instructor
  • Advanced Programme Design
  • Movement Screening

What my Clients say:

"If you want results fast I cannot recommend Sam highly enough. In just 10 weeks I have gone from not being able to run for five minutes to completing a 10km extreme obstacle course race in the best shape of my life." - Freya

“I started training with Sam in a bid to get fit and lose weight. It would have been easy to give in but Sam’s motivation and enthusiasm was a real driving force to help me lose 19 stone. I enjoy my personal training sessions and have gained so much knowledge that I trust and value from nutrition to the correct way to train in order to keep my weight off. His guidance to drive me forward continues” – Rachel

“I have severe Athetoid Cerebral Palsy which affects my whole body. Up until 22, my Physio's solely focused on my legs, neglecting my arms. I could just about drive my chair, sign my name in cards and use a keyboard with my right hand. I often sat on my left hand because it had no useful capacity whatsoever and was considered a lost cause. With Sam’s help, motivation and guidance, the past 3 years have been extraordinary: after quickly building up muscle in my right arm, Sam was curious about getting my left arm working in order to maintain body symmetry. Working on both my strength and control, I can now raise both arms above my head and hold dumbbells in both hands without worrying about my left arm lashing out. I never dreamed any of this would be possible” - Alex


Andrew Shears

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

Andrew holds a first class degree in Strength & Conditioning and believes that this style of training will help people improve their quality of life.

Helping clients to develop a variety of skills from mobility and stability to strength and power, Andrew will also work with you to help correct posture, enhance coordination and proprioception skills.

Andrew offers effective programming that aims to improve technique, sport performance and daily activities.

My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 2 Gym Instructor
  • First Class Degree in Strength & Conditioning

What my Clients say:

“I have been training with Andrew for around 2 years now. I am a 64-year-old woman who has osteoarthritis. When I started at the gym Andrew gave me help to strengthen my muscles around my joints, I have 2 total knee replacements and was on the list for a hip replacement. Everything Andrew did was designed to improve my health and mental wellbeing and each week was varied and fun which helped in my recovery when I finally had my hip replacement.” - Kate 

“I reached out to Andy with the goal of losing weight and building muscle, but I didn’t have a clue on how to achieve it. I had barely set foot in the gym before and my confidence in myself was at an all-time low. I was determined to make the change and with Andy’s support I’m on a fantastic journey. Since working with Andy, he’s been so helpful and I’m now more active, have more energy, and feel so much better about myself. Looking forward to what the future holds and continuing to get stronger!” - Aiden

Oliver Whitley

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

Oliver is passionate about helping people become stronger, fitter and better versions of themselves. Having achieved a first-class degree in strength and conditioning and working in the fitness industry for over 7 years, he understands that everyone is different. Helping you find the most enjoyable way of improving yourself in the gym.

Oliver has experience training a wide variety of people, from MMA athletes and footballers to first-time gym-goers looking to improve their overall health. Whether you’re an athlete trying to improve your strength and speed for their sport, or a beginner looking to improve your health and fitness in the gym, Oliver has the experience to help you. 

My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 2 Gym Instructor
  • BSc (hons) Strength and Conditioning

What my Clients say:

“The gym can be an intimidating place, but Oliver put my mind at ease immediately. Going from having pain daily and not being able to do anything in the gym, to being able to move without pain, and do weighted exercises with ease has been amazing. Oli is a great coach and used his knowledge to help me improve my quality of life” - Ruth

Aaron Williams

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

Having completed a degree in Sports Science and Business management studies in 2003, I have since gained a wealth of knowledge and experience as an Advanced Level 4 Personal trainer. Our time together will enable you to gain an understanding of a variety of training methods and principles and we will set measureable goals throughout your journey!  

My clientele includes individuals who want to lose weight, Cardiac and Stroke rehabilitation, injury rehabilitation, Strength and Conditioning, Core Strength and Pre and Post Natal. My main passions are endurance events such as Marathons, half marathons, 10kms and obstacle course races achieving a marathon PB in the Edinburgh Marathon in 2015; 3 hours 45 minutes, more recently I completed the BACPR Phase 4 Cardiac Rehabilitation instructors qualification.

My qualifications

  • BSc (Hons) Sports Science & Business Management Studies
  • BACPR Level 4 in Cardiac Rehabilitation
  • CIMSPA Level 4 Personal Trainer
  • Active IQ Nutrition & Weight Management
  • Pre & Post Natal Exercise Prescription
  • Fitness Kickboxing Workshop W.A.K.O.G.B
  • CYQ Indoor Cycle
  • Les Mills GRIT Instructor
  • Less Mills Sprint Instructor
  • ASA Swim Fit Instructor

What my Clients say:

“Aaron has helped me achieve my goals, from Cycling in China to running a half marathon! He has motivated and encouraged me when the going has got tough! Not only have I lost 3 stone in weight I have maintained my present weight!“ - Mandy Ostenfeldt

"Aaron is patient, highly motivating and has a great personality. Before I started my sessions with him I had low self-esteem and didn’t enjoy exercising as much as I do now! Working with Aaron has helped me to become more confident, fitter and happier! His workouts are always fun and offer a good variety of cardio and strength, you’ll never get bored because he likes to mix things up!

Aaron pushes you to work hard and will give you a challenge in a supportive way! His nutritional knowledge and advice encouraged me to change my diet promptly and his enthusiasm for exercise has helped me to come out of my comfort zone! I have made so much progress in just 3 months and this is mainly down to Aaron's hard work and encouragement! Thank you so much!" - Jane Weatherston

Ben Williams

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

Ben has always had a passion for sports and fitness. By the age of 9, Ben achieved his black belt in Taekwon-Do and competed in multiple national competitions, whilst also enjoying training in kickboxing.

Football has also been a significant part of Ben’s life seeing him gain experience playing at a national youth level and various steps of non-league football. Completing his BSc (Hons) Sports and Exercise Science degree has allowed Ben to develop his interest in sports performance, in addition to discovering new interests such as strength and conditioning and health and wellbeing.

My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 2 Gym Instructor

What my Clients say:

"Ben is an enthusiast when it comes to taking care of people, which has been shown in his experience working with clients from a range of backgrounds, with a variety of goals, such as aspiring athletes or individuals who just want help to start taking the right steps to live a healthier lifestyle." – Ryan Patterson

About Personal Training

Whatever your fitness level or goals, personal training can help you to become fitter, healthier and reach your personal targets.

A personal focus on you and your health and fitness needs

Sometimes we all need that extra encouragement, support, advice and motivation, whether you've just started out on your fitness journey or you’re aiming to run a marathon.

Building a great working relationship with Nuffield Health fitness staff can be a fun and very rewarding experience. They are there to educate and ensure you remain focused on your fitness goals.

Our dedicated and experienced Personal Trainers will help you:

  • Set realistic but challenging health goals
  • Track your progress
  • Improve your wellbeing
  • Increase your energy levels
  • Change your body composition