Testimonials
07708553425
Below are client testimonials for Edinburgh Personal Trainer, Chris Richards:
After around 18 months of training with no real
knowledge, I decided to look into it that little bit further and through social
media and many Google searches I read up on biosignature modulation. After
reading into the details of it I decided it would be something of benefit to
me, to my surprise there are not many practitioners in Scotland, but luckily I found Chris.
I met with Chris, had my biosignature done, talked training and was taken
through a pt session focusing on correct form, I signed up to the online
training package and haven't really looked back.
Chris is always on
hand to answer my 101 questions on every aspect I’m not sure of, is constantly
motivating me and also wanting me to do better (something I really appreciated
as it wasn't just about the money or results for him, it was about results for
me).
Chris' knowledge, as
well as passion for his industry has gave me results I never thought possible, everything
was kept simple for me and easy to follow, through my hard work, Chris hard
work, knowledge and experience, I’m now more confident than I have ever been
and I’m looking forward to my summer beach holiday for the 1st time in a
long time.
I can’t recommend Chris
enough to anyone who wants improved quality of life, improved quality of sleep,
improved quality of health, and a 6pac ;)
I’m now looking
forward to the next part of my journey through Chris online guidance and
support.


Tommy McNee - (Online Client) - Edinburgh

"I had always been dubious about personal trainers thinking "Isn't this something I can just do by myself?", but fortunately I gave Chris a shot. Thank goodness I did, as Chris did far more than just watch me work out. With Chris' guidance I started taking research backed vitamins, started eating healthily, and with only one workout session a week, went from pudgy to six-pack in six months! Not only that, but I've stopped getting a stiff/sore back in the mornings (from strengthening my lower back), and my posture has improved greatly when sitting at my desk during the day. I would whole heartedly recommend making the investment into your health and give Chris a try. Although he is the only trainer I've ever had, he outperformed my wildest expectations".
Jono Millin - Edinburgh
"I have trained with Chris Richards for a year and in that time I have become fitter, stronger, and happier with my life and the way I live it.This summer I had the chance to go on a dream holiday, hiking along the Northern Italian coast for 9 days. When I finally arrived at the hiking trail, my backpack on my back, and stood at the bottom of the steepest, longest, most gruelling set of steps I have ever seen, my first thought was not of the beautiful countryside or stunning sea views, but ‘Thank GOD Chris Richards is my trainer’. I may have made it up those stairs without his training, but it would not have been fun. Quite simply, training with Chris just makes my life more enjoyable.His love of fitness and exercise is infectious and his quiet but determined encouragement will have you reaching goals you never thought possible, whether it’s running your first ever 10k or lifting weights heavier than yourself! I cannot recommend Chris Richards highly enough".
Jenny Simmons - Edinburgh
"I trained with Chris for just over a year, thoroughly enjoying and benefiting from the time. There were 2 parts of my training as far as I'm concerned, when I trained with Chris weekly and made small changes to my diet, and secondly when I decided to really dive in and train twice a week, taking greater tips in food choice from Chris. In the former part of the training I noticed gernal weight loss and fitness levels increasing, when I decided to really dedicate myself to the training I started to see more of the toned body I have always really desired.Chris is dedicated, clear and makes purposeful choices. He's also that wee bit charming and funny that makes the workout bearable when you're dying (in a good way!). I highly recommend training with him, you'll have a great time and feel very rewarded".
Lauren Berning - Edinburgh
"In my time spent with Chris, I have learned so much about nutrition, exercise, and general body well being. This is far more than I was expecting to obtain. Then there are the sessions in which Chris always pushed me on that wee bit further to attain the goals desired, it was always done in a friendly manner , and at no time was there a feeling of " i could have done more".
Chris showed an extensive range of different exercises that kept it all fresh, rather than ploughing through the same stuff all the time.
I would highly recommend anybody looking to either get fit, keep fit, to contact him".
Derek Easton - Edinburgh
"I came to Chris when a physio suggested that weight training might be a way to manage my hypermobility and the injuries from a career in dance.
Within a month of training once a week I had no pain anymore. I've hit the 6 month training mark and dropped a dress size - an unexpected bonus. By providing lots of information and some gentle nagging, Chris has encouraged me to reconsider the way I approach food and I'm eating more healthily than I have ever done. The programmes are well considered and there's lots of variation to stop any boredom creeping in.
I never expected to be free from the aches and pains and I can never stop training but actually now I've started I'm hooked and I wouldn't want to stop.... If Chris wasn't a personal trainer I think he would be working for MI5 - nothing gets past the man he he will always persist.... it's easiest to just go along with it and reap the benefits!"
Katy Howitt - Edinburgh
"As a self confessed gym-phobic I was really nervous about starting any kind of fitness regime as I had zero experience and knowledge. I'm really pleased I chose Chris as a trainer as he's extremely knowledgeable, good fun, and has a knack of getting the best out of a very stubborn individual such as myself. I've lost weight (19lbs so far!), toned up and surprised myself with what I'm capable of physically. As well as his instruction during workouts, I have also really benefitted from his input on food and nutrition. I would highly recommend him."
Sophie Moore - Edinburgh
"As an Edinburgh University Netball Team, strength and conditioning is very
important to help with movement around the court and the control of
throwing and catching the ball. As a team, we started going to Chris in
October and saw improvements in our core strength within the first 2
weeks, improving the way we played on the court.
The sessions
are always fun, challenging and interactive, especially with our choice
of music! Even though we train as a group, Chris still gives us time on a
one-to-one basis to ensure we are doing the exercises correctly and to
push us individually. The exercises are varied and tailored to suit our
needs as a group and to help us reach our specific goals as a netball
team.
With an extensive knowledge of different exercises and the
different ways to work on specific areas of the body, Chris was able to
adjust exercises to suit a couple of the girls when they got injured.
This is an admirable skill as the girls were still able to do the
session without risk of further injuries.
Chris is always
professional, reliable, supportive and encouraging with a friendly
attitude who you can have a laugh with. We have thoroughly enjoyed
having Chris as our personal trainer and are a much stronger, motivated
and confident team, ready to tackle the league one game at a time!"
EUNC CENA5s – Edinburgh
"I started going to Chris after initially loosing 2 stone through hard cardio, however I felt I had hit a wall and no matter how hard I tried, those final pounds would not shift and those big arms would not develop!
The sessions are always fun, and despite sometimes feeling a little a faint and almost giving up, Chris ensures I push on in a safe and controlled manner.
Chris's 'make it count' attitude is infectious and pushes me to do those last few reps despite the burn in my muscles! His knowledge of; different exercises, nutrition and supplementation is very extensive and impressive. Any and all questions are answered extensively.
After just 7 months I am leaner, more muscular, fitter and most importantly, more confident.
A rare find!!!"
Jonathan Toye - Edinburgh
"I
started training with Chris to get fit and toned, learn how to exercise safely,
to get motivated and to build my confidence in the gym. I can honestly say that Chris has helped me reach
my goals and continues to help me improve on my achievements.
Working
with Chris started about four months ago.
At that time I was recovering from various muscle strains and had just learnt
that since I naturally over pronate I needed to focus on strengthening certain
muscles to compensate for this and reduce susceptibility to injury. I had just begun to get into exercise again
after a few years of not doing very much when I got injured (although not
caused by exercise!) so was feeling particularly frustrated and demotivated by
the time I contacted Chris. After discussing
my requirements we focussed on getting me back on track.
Chris
varies the sessions so training is both comprehensive and stimulating. In addition he provides guidance on nutrition
and lifestyle choices making his approach more holistic. I have learnt a lot
since starting up with Chris.
Professional
and encouraging Chris has (annoyingly!) proved me wrong so many times when I
have claimed “I can’t do it!” He works
me hard but I would not want it any other way. I am very pleased with my acquired level of
fitness and physical definition to date.
For the first time in my life I am managing full press-ups, am undaunted
by and actually enjoying weightlifting (which I thought had always been
something reserved for the guys!) and I recently ran my first 10k with little additional
preparation.
Unlike
classes, one to one training can be pretty intensive so it is paramount to find
someone you feel comfortable with and can work with successfully. If you are looking for someone who is personable,
reliable, supportive, focussed and who knows his stuff then I would not
hesitate in recommending Chris to you. Just don’t take my slot!"
Kwan-Nga Yeung - Edinburgh
"Chris is a fantastic trainer! What I appreciate most about him is his ability to balance professionalism with empathy and caring for his clients. Even when I am feeling extremely down about my body image or progress (as many of us females tend to do), Chris constantly reminds me to stay focused on the positives, and to never waste my energy on negative thoughts. His positive demeanour is infectious!
Chris listens to what you want to accomplish and puts extra effort into creating a custom program. You can relax knowing that you're in the hands of an expert! I appreciate that he comes to every session prepared with a specific workout planned according to my needs, and he keeps very good records to track progress.
Chris constantly checks in with me to make sure I am feeling alright physically and mentally, and he is open to any and all feedback regarding any changes I might want.
Chris Richards is client-focused with a sincere attitude. I wouldn't go to any other trainer in Edinburgh!"
Katie Ingram - Edinburgh
"Chris Richards was an amazing Edinburgh discovery! As a lazy American striving for 6 pack abs, but not really wanting to put in all the effort, I was happy to find that Chris pushed me to the limit and kept me motivated. He distracted my brain with exercises I had never done before...I was so distracted...and out of breath...that I had a hard time pulling my usual stunts of turning my workouts into my own personal chat show!
Most importantly, unlike the dreaded, lackluster, inefficient lonely time I spend by myself at the gym, (this is typically divided between listening to Katy Perry Songs, stretching, and dodging accidental angry male-model eye contact) his fun and friendly attitude makes training sessions something I actually looked forward to!
Now if only I had Chris back here at home in California to keep me just as focused and motivated!
Looks like I'll have to return to Scotland to retrieve my 6 pack."
Tom Lenk - California - (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Transformers, Nip/Tuck, Pepsi Adverts and Rock of Ages on Broadway)
I have been training with Chris for about 4 months and I am already feeling stronger and more toned. For anyone looking for a stronger body and a fun trainer, Chris is the guy!
Shannon Woods - Canada
"Chris has shown me that training and keeping fit in the gym doesn't have to be a chore. Chris' sessions are great fun and I always feel thoroughly worked. I actually look forward to training rather than putting it off! As well as feeling fitter and in better shape, I have seen an increase in my energy levels and feel generally healthier.
As a professional surfer who had completely lost motivation as a student in Edinburgh, I came to Chris to help get my fitness back on track. The nutritional advice I have been given has helped me shift the weight I needed to get me back into shape and ready for the season. The sessions are tailored specifically to benefit my surfing performance and I have already seen remarkable results in both training and competitions. I'm excited to see the results in my contests after seeing great results in training.
Thanks to Chris I feel far more comfortable in the gym and am no longer intimidated by the prospect of going! I'd recommend Chris to anyone who needs that extra motivation. I've thoroughly enjoyed training with him and look forward to fulfilling the goals we've set. Thanks Chris!"
Grace Davies - Professional Surfer - Edinburgh
"After injuring my heel while playing rugby, I worked with and spoke to
various physios and sports therapists about getting back to playing,
without much success. A friend trained with Chris and suggested that it
might be worth a go to see what he could do and I've been very
impressed with the results so far.
Chris is great at
encouraging you to succeed and quickly increases the workrate so that
you see the benefits quickly. He asks the right questions and is very
professional in his manner and work, as well as being very friendly. My
heel feels better all the time because of the work we have put in and
I've lost weight - a massive 30lbs and counting, all thanks to
Chris. I'm not back playing yet but I feel like it is now a
possibility, unlike before I worked with Chris. If anyone is going to
help me get back to rugby, it will be him. Many thanks!"
Kevin Johnston - Edinburgh
"I have been going to the gym casually off and on for the last few years but not really setting any goals.At the end of 2009 I entered a competition at the gym to win free personal training sessions.
Unfortunately I did not win but Chris called me up anyway for an informal chat to see what I wanted to achieve out of a program.
I
decided to give it a go and over the course of the last year my whole
body strength and general fitness have improved considerably.
As an
added bonus I even lost weight too! This is due to the constant support,
encouragement and advice from Chris during these sessions.
Both mentally and physically, I feel a whole lot better.
It has increased my confidence, given me the gym bug and pushed me to come in more on my own. I even get frustrated when I can't go and this can only be a good thing.
Thanks Chris for all your hard work!"
Colvin Cruickshank - Edinburgh
"I am an extremely
active sports person that has always led a healthy lifestyle and done regular
exercise. I had been doing weight training 3-4 times per week for approx 2
years when I first decided to see Chris. I originally signed up to see him for
some extra motivation after reaching a point where I no longer felt I was able
to improve my current level of performance on my own.
Chris immediately took
a comprehensive approach to develop my training regime, incorporating education
on diet and nutrition (given both during training sessions and later emailing
me the information).
Through Chris’
encouragement and guidance I have noticed a significant improvement in my
muscle gain and overall strength. I am currently lifting much heavier weights
and doing an extremely varied and enjoyable training regime.
One thing I didn’t
expect to gain from training with Chris, but something that has made a telling difference
is the psychological shift that now enables me to push through that pain
barrier in order to achieve massively improved results.
Chris is an
approachable, knowledgeable and educated personal trainer, who is constantly
improving his own performance by studying new courses and learning new training
techniques; I would have no hesitation in recommending him to anyone that is
looking to better their physical health or wellbeing".
Simon Kershaw - Edinburgh
"I have played football for over eight years at a competative level,
I have represented scotland at youth and senior level and have played
for several top ladies teams within scotland. My fitness levels within
football have always been maintained but I always felt that I was never
achieving the best results and I could improve in other aspects of my
performance.
I done some local research to find a personal trainer that could
help me reach my goals and had the ability to be sport specific as it
was important for me to incorporate any other training with my football
training.
I found Chris through an advertisement online, I contacted him and
he was very efficient in responding to me and arranged a tester session.
During the tester session Chris was very professional and open
minded, he asked lots of questions and took interest in my goals and
targets. He gave me lots of variety and challenges within the session in
order to find my strengths and weaknesses.
Having worked with many coaches through my footballing background, I
would need to say that Chris's knowledge and understanding of people
and fitness is second to none, he is such a pleasant and very driven
character to work with and his attitude only has a positive effect on my
new approach to training. Not only was he interested in my training, he
also took interest in my diet and nutrition, monitoring it and giving
me some advice on ways of improving.
I've been working with Chris on a weekly basis for around 6months
now and the results have been fantastic, my overall fitness has improved
and I have developed my physique in ways I didnt think were possible. I
have also noticed the difference in matches I have played, my overall
strength and agility has improved, therefore has made me a better
footballer.
Im very satisfied with my results so far and look forward to the future".
Leanne Crichton - Hibs Ladies FC - Edinburgh
"After recently turning professional after a succesfull amatuer career I realised work was needed on my punching power. After speaking to Chris he revised a strength and conditioning plan for me that has increased my punching power. After fighting 3 weights above my normal weight for my last fight the training that Chris has done with me really showed as I was the stronger fighter after such a short time. I feel that the work he has put in can help me to reach my goals in the pro ranks. He has also helped me with my diet and nutrition so making weight for my fights is no longer a problem. He's always happy to answer any question I have and has a wide range of knowledge in his field. Thanks a lot Chris!"
Gareth Stemp - Professional Boxer - Edinburgh
"Trying to write a testimonial that does Chris justice is a very difficult task. Chris has been my personal trainer for the last four months and has managed to completely change my fitness routine with satisfying results. I was already a frequent gym user but had become stuck in a rut and turned to Chris to shake up my cardio routine and give me confidence and guidance in weight training. As promised a tailered workout was created and every week he has something new to offer stopping it becoming stale. I have managed to drop a dress size, tone up and find myself in the weight section of the gym no longer intimidated. As a student I always thought a personal trainer was out of my reach until now. His affordable prices and flexible style make his sessions easy to combine with university life. Chris has found a way of motivating me to work hard for myself. I always come away tired but satisfied and return the next session eager to do better. I can't recommend him enough!
Fiona Vernon - Edinburgh
"Chris, you have done a great job helping me in the gym. I feel
really fit and I'm so happy with my body. This is the first time in my
life I feel like this. Thanks so much again!"
Tana Galloway - Edinburgh
"I had been going to the gym for a few months concentrating on
increasing my fitness levels and trying to lose some weight in the
process. I noticed I was starting to get a bit lazy with my sessions so I
thought I would try working with a personal trainer. I met Chris and
right away he made me feel really comfortable. He didn't just push me
into assorted exercises and stand by while I did them. He found out what
goals I was trying to achieve and where I wanted to go with my fitness.
From there he helped me work out with exercises that would strengthen
my body and lead me in the directions I was trying to go. He was really
patient, encouraging and lots of fun. I might have finished the sessions
drenched in sweat but I felt amazing after the session and looked
forward to each one. I would highly recommend Chris to anyone that's
looking for some steady encouragement and a friendly supportive approach
to exercise. Chris knows his stuff when it comes to fitness and
nutrition and not only helped me with the exercising, but also giving me
advice on how to improve on my food intake! The changes I have seen in
my body after these workouts with Chris are amazing!! Thank You!!!"
Hannah Leacy - Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
"My experience with Chris was nothing short of amazing. The
sessions were always fun, challenging, and were overall satisfying.
Chris was very knowledgeable and personable. He would always push my
limits just that much further, allowing me to reach my fitness goals,
and then some."
Lynsie Taylor - Vancouver, Canada
"I am a 24 year old female who started working with Chris at the
beginning of the year to help me to get back into exercise and a healthy
routine. Chris has been a huge help in increasing my motivation and my
fitness. Our workouts give me new ideas and ways of exercising. Chris is
always flexible and happy to fit around my schedule. I appreciate
Chris's relaxed but focused approach and I always enjoy our sessions. I
don't think I'll ever be someone who loves going to the gym, but I look
forward to my sessions with Chris and I'm definitely enjoying my new
fitness and that chuffed feeling you get after a good workout!"
Lesley Fraser - Edinburgh
"Chris has been my personal trainer since August last year. I am
very happy with the results I have achieved through his dedication and
encouragement. He undertakes an in-depth consultation so he understands
what you are looking to gain from your sessions and monitors this
throughout. He not only supports you in your sessions but out with as
well. If it was not for Chris I would have given up on exercising a long
time ago! He gives well read advice on all aspects of health from diet
and exercise to lifestyle choices. He is extremely passionate,
hardworking and dedicated and very knowledgeable about his chosen
subject. I would recommend anyone to try Chris’s sessions – you will be
shocked what you are capable of with Chris’s help!"
Ashley Paton – Edinburgh
“I have found Chris to be very personable and professional. He
clearly knows his job and has a passion for it. I have seen great
results since using Chris's services.”
David McRobbie - Edinburgh
“I started working with Chris as I needed to get in shape fast for
my wedding the same year. I was extremely impressed with Chris’s
approach. He tailored a plan specifically to my requirements that
encompassed cardio alongside weight training, he demonstrated an in
depth knowledge of the mechanics behind every exercise and what the
outcome would be, short, medium and long term. The results spoke for
themselves; after 8 weeks of intensive training I lost 16lbs in weight
and there was noticeable definition from the weight training. I would
highly recommend Chris to anyone that’s considering using a personal
trainer he is an expert in his field and his friendly and approachable
manner makes him a great individual to work with.”
David Tait - Edinburgh