Barry Grinham got me into running in 2005. I’d needed some motivation and discipline to exercise regularly and Barry provided both. I knew he would, as I’d seen him motivating my kids in the elements of gym at his brilliant Energizers classes for toddlers and pre-schoolers at Oxford Brookes. I remember the first time he got me to run round University Parks with him. One circuit of the park and I was completely out of breath. A few years of Barry’s training regime later I completed the Town and G…

Having known many exercise/sports coaches, I am impressed by the way Barry changes his coaching style to suit the people in the class. For example, women generally respond well to lots of positive encouragement. I think it’s because the early socialization of girls often leaves them feeling less confident of themselves and their abilities than boys, so more encouragement is needed. I’ve known male sports coaches trying to use the same techniques as they would for men (teasing, provoking, …

Thank you for the 11 sessions I have had with you over several months. The one-on-one pace, the gentle challenge to do most amazingly simple things that I did not think I could do, and the suggestion to sort out my head, as the body was stronger than I imagined was invaluable. I will be back for more, as there is no alternative to a healthy and generally flexible and fit body.