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

Courtney Buckley

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

Dedication and consistency are essential for achieving your goals! Courtney is a passionate, understanding trainer who helps individuals not only transform their bodies but mindsets too. If you're lacking confidence, motivation and time, Courtney will work with you to ensure your goals are met, no matter your current fitness levels and lifestyle.

Courtney is a level 4 Obesity and Diabetes Specialist and an MNU Certified Nutritionist, making her an expert in body transformation, fat loss, muscle retention and optimising sports performance nutrition.


My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 4 Personal Trainer
  • MNU Certified Nutritionist
  • Level 4 Exercise Specialist in Obesity & Diabetes
  • Level 3 in GP Exercise Referral
  • Level 3 in Personal Training
  • Level 2 in Fitness Instruction

What my Clients say:

"Courtney is an eye opener for sure. I’ve worked with her for seven weeks now and she corrected technique. Courtney has corrected technique errors and stripped weight right back. In 7 weeks I now have PB in all my lifts bench, deadlift and squats. Courtney knows when to push to get the results. Have Courtney as a personal trainer and you'll know she’s the full package" - Ben

"Courtney is an amazing PT to have helping me in and out of the gym. Courtney has helped me get healthier, fitter and stronger. Her motivation in making me and all her other clients a better person for different reason in the gym. Courtney is lovely to be around and her guidance is second to none. Thank you for everything" – Matthew

"Courtney is an amazing trainer! I had zero level of fitness and she has slowly built my strength and confidence in the gym. Courtney makes me feel comfortable in the gym. Love my sessions" - Sophie


Laura Budd

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

Whether you are striving for a new personal best or at the beginning of your fitness journey, Laura delivers a unique service tailored towards you and your goals. Currently completing her Masters in Sport Rehabilitation, Laura specialises in helping you stay or become injury free on your health and fitness journey. 

Laura’s expert coaching has helped many people to improve their body composition, increase their strength, enhance their mobility and most importantly, improve their mindset.

We all know that results require consistency and hard work which is why Laura is 100% dedicated to making your training efficient, effective and enjoyable. With Laura’s expertise and on-going support, you will be motivated and inspired to improve your health and wellbeing through exercise.

My qualifications

  • MSc Rehabilitation in Sport & Exercise Student
  • Level 3 in Personal Training
  • Level 3 in Exercise for Pre & Post Natal
  • Level 2 in Circuit Training
  • Level 2 Suspension Training Instructor
  • Level 2 Kettlebells Instructor
  • Level 2 Indoor Group Cycle Instructor

What my Clients say:

“I started with Laura over 2 years ago when I needed advice following a pretty serious knee injury. She has coached me pre and post surgery and I’m now hitting big PBs with my weight training. Laura has been incredibly supportive with nutrition and I’ve lost 1.5 stone in weight. Laura is really knowledgeable and friendly and I always look forward to her sessions! – Katharine Stewart

Laura is an incredible PT and is truly passionate about helping people with their health and fitness goals. I have learnt so much from Laura in such a short amount of time, and my confidence and happiness has massively improved thanks to her support, teaching and motivation. She is kind, knowledgeable and provides you with the tools you need to succeed. I cannot thank her enough, she has been instrumental in improving my self-esteem, health and fitness. – Emily May

“Laura is the full PT package: she is professional; she is dedicated; she is organised; she is motivating and a lovely person all around! I can’t recommend Laura enough!” – Sabina Baugh

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

Karla Court

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

Karla is passionate about helping people make sustainable lifestyle changes. As a busy, working mum who has had her own health and fitness journey, she fully understands that feeling both physically and mentally fitter doesn’t happen by following a one-size-fits-all plan - it’s about making changes at a doable and sustainable rate for you.

As a Certified Women’s Coaching Specialist, Karla understands how to help women to feel stronger, fitter and more confident as they navigate the challenges of life and physiological changes.

You will need to be ready to commit to the process and Karla will be with you every step of the way to educate, guide and support you.

My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 3 in Personal Training
  • Level 2 in Fitness Instruction
  • GGS Certified Women’s Coaching Specialist

What my Clients say:

“Karla is a holistic PT and has helped me to feel physically and mentally stronger. With Karla's support and guidance I have faced my fears and I now confidently weight train without feeling embarrassed. Karla has given me sustainable tools to live a healthy and active lifestyle without feeling restricted.” - Carla

“With Karla, it isn’t just about the workouts (although it can be if you want it to be) - it’s about nutrition, mindfulness and self-care too. She provides not only the tools but also the support and encouragement to enable people to become the best version of themselves, whatever that may be.” - Susan

Fraser Ivison

Wellbeing Personal Trainer

How can I help you improve your health?

Fraser is particularly passionate about weight loss and muscle gain, making healthier lifestyle choices and helping people achieve a state of physical and mental wellbeing. Through knowledge and personal experience, Fraser is able to build a plan to your exact needs and adapt it if necessary through observation, conversation and changes in your goals.

His goal is to make a positive impact on people's lives beyond the physical, helping them look good and feel good, to be the best version of themselves.

My qualifications

  • CIMSPA Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 3 in Personal Training
  • Level 2 in Fitness Instruction

What my Clients say:

“Training with Fraser was the best decision I made to put me on the right path with my health and wellbeing. He is a great mentor, 100% committed to his clients and very accessible for advice, training tips and more. Since training with Fraser my physical and mental health has improved drastically, I am a more confident and happier person, I highly recommend him” – Sebastian Jennings

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 5,000 hours experience in delivering Personal Training sessions and is the club's former Fitness & Wellbeing Manager, 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 and our London Head Office, meaning his availability is extremely limited. It is recommended that you contact Paul to discuss availability before purchasing a PT package. His email is: paul.johnson3@nuffieldhealth.com.

My qualifications

  • 1st Class BSc (Hons) Degree - Rehabilitation in Sport & Exercise
  • CIMSPA Level 4 Personal Trainer
  • MNU Certified Nutritionist
  • 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
  • Recovery Plus Trainer
  • Les Mills GRIT Series Advanced Instructor
  • Kettlebell Instructor
  • TRX (Suspension Training) Instructor
  • ViPR Instructor
  • Strength & Conditioning Coach for Mixed Martial Arts
  • ASA Swim Fit Instructor

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 PT’d 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

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

 


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


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

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