TESTIMONIALS - Edinburgh Personal Training

"Advantages over other gyms: Discretion- only personal trainers and clients so you immediately feel at ease and confident, even if you are starting out with weight to lose and fitness to gain. Unintimidating- all sizes, shapes and levels of fitness. Convenient- complete flexibility re hours, early mornings to later in the evening and you can vary the times that suit from week to week; when your trainer is on holiday others will step in and take you; free parking outside the door. Effective- personalised support and encouragement to lose weight and get fit; help with keeping a food diary, being weighed, advice on diet etc all are offered if you want it. I have never been sporty and gradually put on weight over the years.

The decision to try and get fit was hard- I felt too unfit to even start, was scared of looking ridiculous in a gym and couldn't see how I could find the time. Taking the decision though was the hardest bit. I have loved every minute: have lost masses of weight (over five stone) and have oodles more energy. The main person to thank has been personal trainer Luke Wyles- he has been endlessly patient; has encouraged me (and never made me feel that I am his most challenging client- I suspect I know the truth on that one) and has kept me going with his relentlessly sunny outlook and good chat. Mike Heatlie also deserves mention- he is extremely professional and ensures that you do things safely, in a measured and balanced way. There is a great team of personable, professional and effective trainers who are welcoming and encouraging." Rachael, Edinburgh

"Eat less, move more! ‎‎ I wasn't a big fan of the gym thing before May this year. I used to walk past Mike's gym every day on the way home from work. I was overweight and really wanted to do something about it but lack somewhat in motivation. So one day I looked Mike up online and sent him an email. I couldn't have hoped for a better response. Mike is friendly and helpful and knows his stuff and didn't make me feel intimidated or uncomfortable, he's just been positive and encouraging and if you're looking for someone to help you lose some lbs (or stones in my case!) in a healthy, sensible way then look no further. I really can't recommend him highly enough. I have lost just over three stone since the beginning of May and gone from a size 20 to a 14 and I'm still going. My confidence and my appearance have changed drastically for me, not to mention my health." LeeAnne, Edinburgh

"I had been a member of David Lloyd for over 10 years when I finally accepted that just paying the direct debit every month was not getting me anywhere. I'd have the January/July blitz, but it rarely lasted more than a month. I had convinced myself I hated exercise, so I felt better about not doing any. A friend recommended Mike and thank goodness they did. Mike pushed me through the mental barrier that I had created. He is encouraging, diplomatic, inspirational & enthusiastic. He is always motivational, even when he really must be thinking "Stop bitching and moaning and get on with it!"

I used to think people who said they enjoyed exercising were simply lying, now I can honestly say I'm a convert. If your reading this review then you've already taken the first step in the right direction. Mike is a brilliant world class trainer and you wont find any evidence to the contrary. Stop trawling through reviews you've found the best trainer, make an appointment! You will not look back. Your only regret might be that you find yourself signing up to challenges you wouldn't have dreamt of before (West Highland Way - here I come)!!" Gayle Jones, Edinburgh

"I signed up to lose a stone and have now lost double that after only a couple of months, feel fantastic and full of energy. Mike and John - my trainer - really make you work hard but they make it fun and it feels great when you hit the targets. On top of that with diet tips and enthusiasm - even at 7am in the morning - it's a great place to go to get fit. First personal trainer I've had and I'd recommend them to anyone." Liz Leith, Edinburgh

"I got Mike's contact details in November 2010. I am in my 50s, and reasonably fit from running. I had never used a gym. My plan was to build some upper body strength - having done nothing about that in the past. Mike introduced me to John; and John and I have done 2/3 sessions a week since then. A lot of this has been upper body stuff, but we have also worked on core strength, injury prevention and done the occasional aerobic circuit.

We have also dealt with recovery from a knee arthroscopy. John has been great and it has been fun. He gives you the confidence to take on a bigger weight and also to try new exercises. I have progressed from bench pressing the bar (with no weights) to quite respectable weights. I can see the toning/strength in my arms, shoulders, chest etc. We are aiming for a few wide grip pull ups by Christmas. My son (aged 16) also goes to John. Working with John, has helped him understand how to do gym exercise properly in order to produce the results he wants." Julian, Edinburgh

"The effect of my before and after pictures bear testament to the targets that i set myself but was worried that i couldnt make them. After 6 months i am surprised at the success that i have achieved which i never thought possible. I am over the moon with the result, my weight was 24 stone and in those 6 months i have lost 7 stone. I have not only lost the 7 stone but my trainer has enabled me to also tone my figure and allowed me to keep shape. The ethos of promotional one to one training, uninterrupted sessions, trainers of the uppermost quality and are sacrosanct to the world of physical wellbeing.

Training sessions can be of a length to suit the individual, the trainers are very flexible with regards to times where you may have considerations to dwell on such as work, family life or social aspects. These training sessions incorporate a variety of advantages with regards to health, muscular growth and cardiac improvement coupled with the knowledge that the development from day one is one of improvement. The equipment ranges from Cardio machines, Free weights, Resistance machines and supplements advice. This is really a 'One to One house' where everything you need including advice with regards to health can be found here.

This is the supermarket emporium of physical health and improvement. By the way Mike, i would make the past 6-7 months (On evidence of the photos) obvious proof that your ideals do work, and i would make myself available for you if you need me to validate any of the above to anyone. This is the best Personal training studio in Scotland. Keep up the good work Mike! (The trainers aren't far short of his ideals either)." Michael Simpson, Edinburgh

"50 going on 30….. because of Mike and his amazing powers of motivation, Nick Price now feels 30 again! Yes I woke up in January to find myself 50 years old and not looking my best if I am being honest. That middle age spread was spreading fast and I had not taken it seriously. Then my wife and children brought in my presents, a new pair of training shoes, brand new gym kit and a kit bag and here was me expecting a rolex or something special for reaching 50! But the something special was still inside the kit bag, a token for 30 sessions with a guy called Mike Heatlie, who's he I asked? Then when I heard he was the trainer for Gwen Stefani I thought he can't be too bad at it can he?

My first session came quickly and I knew my wife had done me a tremendous favour, because Mike was inspirational from the second I met him, he made me feel like a normal man and yes too heavy, but it wasn't something that couldn't be fixed and Mike committed to making me feel and look good. He worked me very hard and every session I sweated and hurt, but soon my trouser belt needed to be tightened another notch and soon those shirts for work were starting to ease off over the belly – it was working, I could see it and so could he, so he continued to push me. 30 sessions later I was feeling like a different guy, I felt as good as I did when I was 30 and I was now running regularly and enjoying it! OK there were some sessions where I felt like going home but I didn't, because he never gave up on me.

Mike's passion for his trade is both unbelievable and admirable and his smile just makes you smile, even when you are hurting. He is a man who thrives on results and seeing his clients achieve, seems to drive him even harder. Mike was the best thing that happened to me in 2011 and I am looking forward to the next changes he will help me make in my body – Mike thank you sincerely, you helped make an old man very happy! Best wishes." Nick Price, Edinburgh

As cheesy as it sounds, signing up for training sessions at Mike’s gym has been one of my best decisions. A few months back, I was stuck in a bit of a rut; I was unable to motivate myself to get fit again after a sports injury to the lower back left me out of action for over a year. In this time I put on weight and couldn’t maintain a structured programme of fitness to regain the core stability that my physiotherapist told me I badly needed to ensure that my injury didn’t keep reoccurring. Cue Marian Earls – my trainer and mentor. I can’t thank her enough.

Over 3 months of 2 sessions a week I have lost the weight I put on and have gained a higher level of fitness, strength and endurance that I had pre-injury. I think the best part of the training was the trust and friendship that we built, meaning that I wanted to work hard to achieve results. I can honestly say that I enjoyed every training session and the laughs that we had along the way. Marian has equipped me with knowledge on diet and nutrition, a whole host of new exercises and a greater understanding of what my body is capable of. I’m getting married next month, so I’ll be able to show family and friends that the hard work has paid off! Thanks to Mike for creating a friendly atmosphere at the gym and for choosing such well qualified and motivated staff to work with him.  Elaine, Edinburgh

"Mike helped me blast my baby belly and get rid of the unwanted extra pregnancy weight. I started training with mike in late october and around 8 weeks later, just in time for christmas! I had returned to my pre-pregnancy weight! A one hour gruelling training session with Mike yielded greater results than hours of classes or training on my own. He also offers great dietary advice which is just as important as training hard - there's no point in sweating it out in the gym to return home to pie, chips and beans! Not only did I lose the weight but I increased muscle mass and felt a great deal more toned. The gym is well equipped, all the staff are lovely and Mike's chat aint bad too! I would highly recommend Mike to get your butt in shape. Ta mike for helping me lose the baby weight! xx" Susan Miller, Glasgow

"My name is Jonathan Lo and I had my first meeting with Mike Heatlie at his personal training studio in Meadowboank on October 1st 2009.  I was 14 stone 11 and vastly overweight.  I had the goal of shedding some weight and building some confidence and Mike has helped me achieve this goal.  Today is October 27th 2010 (one year later), and I now weigh 12 stone.  I have lost just under 40 pounds this year and I have Mike to thank for it.

Mike Heatlie is an expert on physical fitness, and he has both the knowledge and experience to help his clients meet their fitness goals.  Mike’s fitness regiment, nutritional advice, and personal encouragement were the biggest factors in my success.  “Be consistent!” I would hear Mike’s voice in my head, and I would put down the bag of crisps in my hand.     

I have come from loathing running and gym workouts to actually enjoying these activities, and I am constantly surprised by all the benefits to living a healthier life-style: the confidence, the extra energy, and just the general ease of doing every day things.   I am very happy about where I am and could not have done it without Mike.  I whole-heartedly recommend Mike Heatlie’s personal training service to anyone who wants to be serious about fitness in their life!" Jonathan Lo, Hong Kong

"Reforming a couch potato‎‎ Whilst recuperating from my 15th operation and following 20 years of ill health I decided it was time for this couch potato to reform her ways. It was with some trepidation that I emailed Mike and the response was amazing. The studio is welcoming and friendly, the advice superb and the attention to detail second to none. For me it wasn't about losing weight (although a pleasant side effect of my improved fitness was dropping 15lbs) it was about regaining my fitness and Mike has certainly helped me to achieve this. I couldn't recommend him more highly and I sing his praises to anyone who will listen." Alison Kenny, Edinburgh

"Best Personal Training EVER!! ‎‎ This gym is FABULOUS! You actually feel like you want to go in and train knowing you'll be pushed to the max and feel amazing afterwards! The personal training from Mike and his staff is second to none, you wont find a better trainer or training facilities anywhere else in Edinburgh! None of those nasty generic workouts you see everyone in the big commercial gyms doing, sweating buckets and never seeing any results! Your workout is completely tailored around you and your goals with awesome results! If it's results you're after then this is the place! I just wish i could work out here everyday!!!" Susan Rutherford, Edinburgh

"For years, I resolved that this year would be the one that I got fit. Going to the gym in the past hadn't produced the results I wanted and I was very disheartened. I'd decided enough was enough and searched for a Personal Trainer. After reading a few websites, I found Mike and liked his approach. Booking an appointment with him was easy, and he was happy to work around my working hours. Walking through the door for the first consultation was the hardest bit - would he run away, screaming "I can't! I can't Don't make me"?! Thankfully my fears were all in my head: Mike was just brilliant. It's not just about getting you working harder in the gym, he finds out about you as a person, getting you into a healthier way of eating as oppose to giving you a pre-printed programme and telling you just to get on with it. Each workout was contained different elements, meaning if you were in the gym without him, you had a vast array of exercises to choose from. He even tailored a workout after I mentioned my enjoyment of the film "300" - that was tough! Over the course of my time with Mike, I did lose weight, but, more importantly for me, I toned up, I increased my fitness level and I changed my bad eating habits. If you're looking for a good personal trainer, I cannot recommend Mike highly enough." Graeme Smith, Edinburgh

Mike is an incredible personal trainer , somehow he knows just how far to push you in each session without leaving you too sore after the session and requiring recovery time. In fact when working with Mike visiting the gym became addictive and I saw dramatic progress every week (on average I lost 2 pounds a week. In addition to his motivational skills and deep knowledge of his subject Mike's gym is fantastic. It is an oasis of calm but a lot of hard work goes on in there! Having the place pretty much to yourself (at the most there was only ever one other person there) means that you are not thwarted in using the equipment you want unlike most gyms where people tend to hog equipment and you lose momentum. An hour with Mike is worth 4 in the gym on your own, you come out feeling stretched but invigorated and keen to keep making progress. Ken Scott, Edinburgh

"I joined the Mike Heatlie Personal Training Studio almost 4 months ago to try to lose some weight and get into shape before hitting the big 40. I’d been a typical yo-yo dieter, having tried many eating plans over the years – from downing cabbage soup to points counting - and failed miserably as invariably the weight came back on. Having now reached 40, I’m 28lbs lighter and am genuinely in much better shape than I was ten years ago.  I feel so much more energetic than I did before and now actually love going to the gym – a first for me! 

What’s even more surprising is how quickly I’ve seen results.  Having been used to pounding the treadmill for hours in previous gyms, I’ve now got a whole new respect for resistance training and a more knowledgeable attitude towards food and how these both impact on weight loss.

Joining Mike Heatlie Personal Training has been the most positive step I’ve ever taken in terms of getting into shape.  Since the day of joining I’ve been bowled over by how welcome the team have made me feel and by the active interest which they have all given.  There is a real family feel among the team and a sense of everyone ‘being in it together’.

I’ve still got some more weight to lose but am confident that I’ll hit that target. I’m not saying that I still won’t get tucked into a take-way from time to time, but the difference is that I now know I’ll get back on track straight away as this is a life-style change for me – not just a quick fix.

Hitting the big 40 wasn’t half as bad as I thought – if anything tackling my weight once and for all has made me feel much brighter and more confident about myself going forward.  Marcella Walsh - Edinburgh

"November 2009 I was fat, unfit and gaining weight.  Then I picked up a flyer for the Mike Heatlie Personal Training Studio.  Despite being a member of another gym (which I had lost all motivation for) I decided to give it a go as many of my clothes were starting to get tight and I felt terribly unfit. I had a personal training session where Mike provided me with a good training program and much more significantly for me a complete dietary overhaul.  Apart from eating to much chocolate I thought I ate fairly healthily, until I realised that the majority of my food intake was carbs in one form or other (normally rice or pasta dishes).

Since then I have been following a much better diet and am training six days a week.  In less than 3 months I have shed approximately 25 lbs and 6 inches from my waist. I plan to lose another 25 lbs over the next few months.  I am now fitter than I have been in years. At the gym there is an extremely supportive atmosphere with Mike always willing to give advice, be it in relation to exercise or diet.  This support has been key in keeping me motivated during the difficult initial phase and to keeping me motivated into the future.

Two things Mike has said spring to mind.  One is there is no substitute for hard work or a magic pill which will make you lose weight and get fit.  The second is to always progress your training from one session to the next, be it run faster than previous, or lift a heavier weight.  Keep challenging yourself and you will improve rapidly.

 If you are willing to put the work in Mike Heatlie is the person to help you achieve your fitness and weight loss goals."

Richard Hawkes - Edinburgh

"As a teenager I was always a little on the chubby side, I was bullied at school for years and had a really hard time. Once I left school I managed to lose all the weight, the thing was I didn't maintain it what so ever in terms of eating well and going to the gym. To be honest I always found it very boring. Over the last three years my weight has gone up and down like a roller-coaster., this was due to my over eating and alcohol binges. I had lost all self-confidence, the majority of my clothes didn't fit and was feeling down for the later part of 2009. At the start of the year I decided enough was enough and that it was time to make a huge change in my life.

A friend recommended me to join Mike Heatlie Personal Training. After looking at Mike’s website and seeing some of the past clients Mike had trained I was very intrigued to go down and take a look. Upon arrival I was not only overwhelmed by the variety of equipment in the Studio, but the main thing that stood out was how friendly the staff where. Over the last few years I have been to many gyms and I have never met such amazing staff anywhere, first impressions always make a huge impact and my first impressions here where nothing but positive.

After just one session I decided that I was going to join for initially for three months, I got my free one hour session with Mike a few days after joining. Meeting Mike for the first time was great, in some gyms the trainers can come across as intimidating, but Mike came across as a genuine, friendly and a true professional. He pays great attention to each and every one of his clients and to top it off is an amazing person. I find it really easy to approach Mike with questions and he is always more than happy to answer them and help me when needed.

During my first session Mike constructed me a program and I have been following it very strictly for the last 7 weeks. I had been given programs in the past in other gyms and they mostly consisted of cardiovascular exercises, and got boring very fast. Mikes program included a good mixture of cardiovascular and weights and has been really fun to follow. I feel that I have learned a great deal in the short time I have been a member of the Studio. Mike weighed me, took my blood pressure and asked about my eating habits, this was something that I did not receive in other gyms.

I have been a member of the Studio for just over 7 weeks and I have lost 2 stone (28lbs) I have drastically changed my diet, I attend the Studio four times a week and have cut out all alcohol from my life. I have another stone to lose until I get to my target weight. I am slowly starting to gain confidence again and a lot of my old clothes are starting to fit again. Once I get to my target weight my aim is to build muscle and continue forward with my fitness regime.

I have never felt so motivated in my life, not only do I feel better physically but also mentally and this is all down to Mike and all the staff at the studio. I really can't thank them all enough. Going to the gym is now a huge part of my life and it is a goal now to keep it up for years and years to come.........." Alan Smith, Edinburgh

“I had read about Mike Heatlie in some articles and was very interested about attending his brand new Fitness Studio that was near to where I live. I have now been a member for about 8 months and in that time I have achieved many of my goals and have lost roughly about 1 ½ stone thanks to Mike’s Program & Sensible Diet Plan. Since then I am training for the Edinburgh Marathon as part of my goals to achieve this year and thanks to Mike’s help he is helping me get there and towards a healthier lifestyle.

On a final note, In the time I have been working out at the Studio I have seen more new members joining, that is a testament to how good Mike’s gym is people know as soon as they finish there first session that this is a great place to workout. Thanks very much Mike & all of the Staff." Jack McManus, Edinburgh

“I’ve been working out with Mike for about six months now. I love his enthusiasm, patience, and positive drive. I’ve had difficulty committing to a regular program of exercise, much preferring to sit on the sofa eating donuts and watching bad T.V. Mike has sorted me out though, even with a few slips here and there. He’s put together an achievable program of exercise and diet, and motivates me to keep moving ahead. I’ve been told to “stick with the winners” and Mike is definitely one of them. I dream of the day when a magical pill will keep me healthy and trim, until then I’ll stick with Mike!” Stacey Chavis, singer, Edinburgh

"Hello, my name is Tommy. I am 75 years old.  I came to Mike Heatlie's fitness studio, for one purpose, to lose weight.  When I started at the studio I was 14 Stone 7lbs.  My target was to lose 1 stone 7lbs.  Which I achieved in 10 weeks. When I arrived I had a 1 hour training session with James, who is a Personal Trainer.  He set me a programme. You will also meet the owner Mike Heatlie, who is a personal trainer to stars in the music industry.  So get yourself along to  the studio and enjoy."   Thomas Grubb, Edinburgh

“Mike is the first personal trainer I've worked with, and I consider myself to be very lucky. Although I viewed my lifestyle as relatively healthy, Mike's knowledge, enthusiasm and professionalism have transformed my approach to fitness. Mike has helped me to think seriously about the impact of my working life, diet and nutrition on my fitness, and advised on different types of exercise to complement our training sessions together. I can honestly say I look forward to each training session with Mike, as I know that he's going to provide variety but that there is a purpose to every exercise. He is also an excellent coach - not like some of the personal trainers you see in the gym urging their victims to work harder, yelling as their clients train beyond exhaustion!"  Chris Shepley, Edinburgh.

Irene Somerville - 16 weeks - 30 lbs weight loss & 7" drop in waist size!!

"Before I started working with Mike I considered myself to be pretty active with a reasonability good diet. Mike has helped me take my fitness to a new level by introducing me to resistance training and more intense cardio workouts. He has also helped me improve what and when I eat. As a results my body shape has changed and I am now the lightest and fittest I have ever been.
 
Mike's sessions are always focused and varied with a high level of intensity.  He introduces new moves that help you stay motivated when you are down the gym doing the sessions on your own. It is the little things that help too; like saying hello when you are doing your own workouts.
 
If you are prepared to put in the hard work and are ready to make the change then Mike really can help you. Of course he isn't going to lift the weights for you but you will have his support 100%." Irene Somerville, Edinburgh


“4 months of seeing Mike twice a week has been fantastic, I couldn't recommend him enough. The sessions have been great fun, real stress busters and loads of people are commenting on how my body shape has dramatically changed (smaller, more toned yet still feminine). I've used personal trainers for about 5 years to get me out of the office and keep the weight down, and never before felt as good as I do now. The difference with Mike is that he really gets and enjoys what he's doing, lives it himself (hence a great role model) and explains to you the 'whys' rather than just the 'whats'. He's taught me that you need an intelligent combo of cardio, strength and controlled food intake to meet your goals, whether that's to trim down or bulk up. I'm now confident doing a weights session on my own and he's completely changed my approach to food, for good. Bizarrely, it's even motivated Dad to go to the gym as he can see the difference it can make! If you're thinking of starting with him you'll need to (1) Work hard in the sessions, and try not to moan! (2) Listen to what he says, he knows what he's talking about and (3) Be committed in your day-to-day life with exercise, food and booze. If you do all that, he'll get you looking and feeling fab in no time!”  Christie A. London.

"Mike was the first person who showed me that I could get results, despite many failed efforts in the past. He showed me how to love exercising and how to, ultimately, love parts of myself that I had always been hiding. I started with him to get healthier, I found myself with a friend for life."  Valentina Mitzkat, USA, Singer


"I have been training with Mike for the last 6 months. Mike is very professional and very focused on helping me change. He is very personable but is less concerned about being my mate than he is about helping me to achieve my goals. His training sessions are hard but varied so I don't feel bored. He has also made me realise it is about a wider change in my lifestyle with things like making me keep my food diary and helping me understand the things I can do to eat better as well as exercise. I would thoroughly recommend working with Mike.”  Deborah Thompson, Edinburgh.

"I had never been to a personal trainer before, but when I first met Mike I knew straight away that he was the one I wanted to work with. He took the time to ask a lot of questions to establish my goals and my motivation, taking the time to put together a programme that suited me and my lifestyle. Workouts with Mike are hard work (his middle name should be 'three more'!), but rewarding and I really felt the difference after a few sessions. He advised me on what I should do in between our sessions in terms of exercise and diet, both of which are key to achieving results. I see it as a 3 step plan - tell Mike what you want to achieve, follow his advice, see the results! After 6 weeks training with Mike, I lost 18 lbs, 6 inches from my waist and 2 inches from my hips. I'm in the best shape I've ever been in and I didn't think it was possible to change my shape to this extent. Mike has completely changed the way I workout, I spend less time i the gym than previously and get better results. I have learned a huge amount from him and I would recommend his services to anyone - regardless of your current fitness level, Mike can help you improve. Encouraging, motivational, positive and a really nice guy with it."

Alastair Pope. Edinburgh.

            before                                              after

"At the peak of unfitness and weighing in at 16 st 13 lbs aged 47 I decided I really needed Mike's help. The initial assessment was that I was nearly too unfit to start!??8 months later I have lost 40lbs and passed my medical with flying colours - I feel and am fitter with more energy. The only downside is I have had to buy new clothes!??Mike has been the driving force behind my campaign. His sessions are fun, challenging and varied. I have weekly competitions which incentivise me to train between sessions. I have weight targets and advice on eating habits. There is variety including boxing. Mike is incredibly positive and professional and I would recommend him highly. 40 lbs in 8 months is a pretty good testimony."  David Law. Edinburgh.

"I decided that I wanted/needed to lose weight and get fit (for the first time in my life) and so I made enquiries at a couple of local health clubs.  They were expensive and didn’t fill me with confidence and so I thought I had come up with the answer – build my own home gym.  A year later the gym was built and kitted out with some basic equipment and so I started to “work-out”.  Six months later I still weighed the same (well to be completely honest, had put on 5lbs) and didn’t feel one bit fitter – I was wasting my time and my money! I needed help and so turned to the internet to find a personal trainer.  Up popped Mike Heatlie and the Mike Heatlie Personal Training Studio at Meadowbank, and it’s the best result from a Google search that I have ever had.

Mike is just brilliant and I can’t recommend him enough.  Before our first session he emailed me and asked me to send a food diary for the last week.  I was very nervous as I was overweight, unfit and uncoordinated, but at least I ate healthily……well that’s what I thought!  Mike very quickly put me right on that score, impressing me with his knowledge of nutrition, offering alternatives and backing it all up with a helpful, caring attitude. We then started to exercise – would I faint, fall off the treadmill, or be so uncoordinated as to knock Mike out with a dumbbell?  All of these thoughts flashed through my increasingly panicked mind.  Just over an hour later it was over and ……. it had been brilliant! I felt confident, filled with hope and enthusiasm and had a real belief that I had found someone who could help me to reach my goals.

I now look forward to each session and for the first time in my life enjoy exercising, even going as far as having entered my first 10K. It is all thanks to the whole team, who always have a welcoming smile and seem genuinely interested in my progress, joining in the celebrations when I reach each weight loss target, but especially Mike. I respect his knowledge and I admire his ability to motivate and encourage me.  He is never cruel, but pushes me just enough, showing me that I can and will improve.  He is funny and caring and he makes each session different and challenging, but most of all enjoyable.

The results so far are amazing and four months later I have lost over a stone, reaching my target weight and my body shape is the best that it has ever been (according to my wife and I have to agree!). Next goal…a six pack and with Mike’s help it could, no sorry, will happen!"  Derek R Radin - 14 lbs lighter - 5" off waist size!

"As far as I can remember I have been in and out the gym trying to get myself sorted out. I would drive my wife crazy every January with my “new Stuart” routine. In January 2008 something completely new happened. A Personal Trainer! At first I felt like a bit of film star but I soon realised that this would be no walk up the red carpet. I was fat, unfit and a strange shape. At 35 years of age I had reached a cross roads in my life, should I become the fat stereo typical police constable who eats donuts or a fit again role model to my two kids? There was no debate. I was measured as a waist 36” which is bigger and wider than I had ever been. The first few sessions were an eye opener and I still hate that rowing machine! But I enjoyed every second of sweat, pain and sometimes blood! (Stuart cut his hand on a dumbbell in case anyone thinks I gave him lashings with a whip! Mike.)

I grew in confidence and with the use of Mike’s diet plan, coupled with protein shakes and vitamins changed my diet beyond recognition. I was introduced to some gym equipment that I had previously no idea how to use that were designed to stimulate muscles I didn’t know I had. Mike has a football manager like quality and has an incredible motivational attitude that is infectious. I soon became very confident and was able to plan my training. After 6 or 7 sessions I was being complimented by friends and family about my new shape and even fitted in to a pair of designer jeans that were previously a bit skin tight. The love handles had gone! As the end of my sessions came closer I was gutted as my Saturday mornings had become a huge part of my training schedule and were hugely enjoyable. I am by no means the finished article but I now have the knowledge, the ability and the mind-set to achieve my goals. I am well aware that Mike Heatlie is a personal trainer to the stars but he puts the same 100% commitment towards his local clients as he does his celebrities. That says it all. I would recommend any person of any age, sex or background to see a personal trainer like Mike if at all possible. It saves 10 years time wasting and listening to amateurs who have no idea!"  Stuart Ross, Edinburgh.

“I have lost nearly 45 lbs since I’ve been training with Mike Heatlie. I have found Mike to be a first class trainer, a great motivator with a good sense of humour. He is extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of training and other related topics. He is passionate about what he does and has put together a training program for me which is outstanding. Mike has a great ability to quickly recognise what changes need to be made to my program to ensure the best results are achieved at all times.”  Kevin Coetzee, South Africa.

"I haven't done very much exercise for 20 years and was very apprehensive about joining an Edinburgh gym. When I walked through the doors at Mike Heatlie's Personal Training Studio I was immediately put at ease. I was given a programme that was tailored to my level of fitness and was doable. The first couple of weeks were a struggle and yes I did ache for a few days, but now 10 weeks later, 12 pounds lighter and 1 dress size smaller I feel fantastic. None of this would have been obtainable if it wasn't for the help of all the team at Mike's. Lorraine Thorne, Edinburgh

"I first heard about Mike when we were looking for a personal trainer for my      husband before our wedding. He had 10 days to start to get him into shape, I was  amazed in the difference. I decided on return from honeymoon that I would give it a try too. I have never enjoyed going to the gym but Mike is thorough, encouraging, patient, knows his stuff, very professional, friendly and knows when to push you that bit more. I saw my fitness/stamina grow each session. Mike also gave good sound nutritional advice on when I should be eating before and after the gym session. I have recommended Mike and his holistic approach to many friends including a  pregnant one." Fiona Melling, Edinburgh.

"We hired Mike Heatlie as our trainer with the aim to lose weight for our wedding in April 2010.  We thought we were being optimistic with only four months to meet our target of losing enough weight to look and feel good on our big day and keep it off as apposed to a quick fix, however from the moment we stepped into the Studio and met Mike he assured us it was achievable and he didn’t lie.  We both lost over 1 stone in weight and lost several inches round our waist and hips and generally toned up all over which was enough to make us feel great on the big day.  Looking good in our wedding pictures meant a lot to us as we can now look back on them in years to come and be happy with what we see, we can’t thank Mike enough for this.       

Now that the wedding is over and we have met our goal we could easily give up and go back to our old ways of ‘thinking’ we are eating healthy and ‘occasionally’ doing a workout but we have no plans of stopping and that is down to Mike.  Over the last four months Mike has educated us on the importance of diet and exercise, he has gave us a lot of advice and information on what we should be eating and when and although we do occasionally slip up we know how to get back on track and keep the pounds off. 

We are both very fortunate to be going on a 6-month honeymoon around the world and our aim is to continue to attend personal training sessions with Mike not only to lose the remaining pounds to meet our target but to tone up so that we can look good and feel confident in whatever part of the world we are in.  Mike has introduced us to more intense cardio sessions and resistance weight training with such encouragement and enthusiasm we are confident we will meet our goal.  Mike has created an environment where we believe people feel comfortable working out and enjoying their gym session.  We no longer look for excuses to not go to the gym but now look for the time where we can fit the gym in.  "

Hazel & Steven Forrester, Edinburgh
 
"I have been training with Mike since June 06’ and in that time I have improved my strength, shape and posture immensely. I would recommend anyone who is serious about getting in shape to give Mike a call." Tim Hegarty, N. Ireland.
 
"My name is Sue, and I'm a 48 year 'young' mother of 3 grown children.  Although I have been 'active' all of my life and rarely sit still, I never 'exercised' until the day I met Mike Heatlie, just this past year!  When I met Mike I was 15 pounds heavier than my ideal weight, healthy but not muscular nor fit, I was slowing down 'with age', and my eating habits were good but not ideal.  Unfortunately I was letting my age in years dictate how I felt about my future, and I felt like a middle aged woman who's best years had passed.  I met Mike and was immediately impressed by his energy level, smile and zest for every second of life.  I found out he was a fitness expert and I immediately began asking him questions.  He answered all of my questions, convinced me of the importance of diet and exercise, and in a very supportive and encouraging way got me focused on ME.  Mike changed my outlook on my future and the very next day I began to change my habits.  I purchased his book 'How to Lose 10 Pounds/Years in 5 Weeks' which I have used as my guide every since.  I've lost the 15 pounds I always dreamed of losing, but more importantly I have dropped 3 dress sizes and am proud of my new fit figure.  I get comments all the time from friends and family about how great I look... they often say I look 18 old years and they have never seen me happier.  And I am happier!  I've spent my career as an accountant and financial planner, and I can tell you that focusing on my personal fitness is the best investment I've ever made and every little bit I do compounds tenfold!!!!  Thank you Mike for making my life so much better!"  Sue Wood, Northern Virginia, USA.


“Mike, I just wanted to thank you for the best health and fitness advice I have ever received. I have spent the past 3 days riveted at my computer and soaking up every ounce of knowledge at my computer. I am a 34 year old female, mother of one. I am 5'7" and currently 121 lbs. Although most would consider this a healthy weight I am lacking the muscle tone that I use to have. In the last year I have fallen out of a consistent fitness regimen and have seen a slight weight gain of about 6 lbs.  
 
The number on the scale doesn't upset me as much as seeing the muscle tone that I have lost. In researching on line for a new direction, I ran across your article. It incorporated many concepts that I use to be religious about following but then also opened my eyes to many myths that have mislead me over the years. It was like a light bulb went off above my head, literally. I sat down and thought about how I have slowly made some dietary and exercise changes in the last year that have directly contributed to my lost muscle tone. I am excited about what the next few months will bring for myself and for my family.
 
I am doing very well with your program. I have already dropped 6 lbs but more importantly I have seen a tremendous change in my muscle tone. The notional plan was been incredibly easy to follow. It also opened up my eyes to how mindlessly our culture eats. It is quite scary actually. It isn't hard to make the right food choices once you realize what are the right choices. It is so important for me to be a good role model for my son Ryan. I am laying a foundation for him that will hopefully lead to life time of healthy living for him.
 
The fitness program has been easy to work into my daily routine. I happily cut back in the amount of cardio I was doing and increased my weight training. I feel more engaged and in the moment when I am weight training versus cardio. Ironically I have always been told by trainers that I needed to do more cardio. Like magic, my muscles have "popped". I can see more definition and lean lines than I have seen in years, even at my lowest weight. I have already had to increase in repetitions as I have seen my strength increasing. My favorite part of the day is first thing in the morning when I wake up to do my 5 minute morning PT session. My little boys runs into my room and jumps around with me doing his "exercises". A 3 year olds energy is boundless!! Plus it is wonderful to see him excited about exercise!
 
When I ran across your ebook I was hesitant. There is so much information out there and so much bad information at that. I was beginning to resign myself to the fact that I am in my mid thirties and this is what happens as you age! Thankfully, I took the time to sit down and read your book. My eyes were opened to many myths about diets, nutrition, and exercise. Simply put, your program works. My strength & muscle tone are back. My energy is boundless again. I couldn't be happier with my decision to purchase your ebook. I have recommended it to friends and family as I am excited to share my success with them. My husband is due home from Iraq in less than a week now. I am so excited to share your book with him. I know he will appreciate the streamlined and highly effective workout. I will be sure to send photos of our progress!!
 
Mike, again many thanks for taking the time to write a no nonsense book about nutrition and fitness. It has made such a positive influence on my life in such a short amount of time. Your dedication to your work and to your clients is unparalleled. You truly care about people achieving success. I would be more than happy to share my story as a testimonial to the success of your nutrition and fitness program. With appreciation and thanks,"   Heather Miller, USA.

"I have worked with Personal Trainers in the past but never obtained the results I was hoping for. This all changed when I signed up with Mike. He took the time to understand my lifestyle then tailored an exercise and nutrition plan that helped me to achieve the results I wanted. Mike is committed to his career within Health & Fitness and it is impossible for his positive outlook not to rub off on you. I am now on my third block of training with Mike and would have no hesitation recommending him to others" Claire Rennie, Edinburgh.

"I have really enjoyed training with Mike. He is a consummate professional and so positive. He listens hard and I love his resistance training. He promised that we'd flatten my tummy without sit-ups and he delivered in spite of my scepticisim. He seems to understand women and their bodies and his workouts are focused and feel good. He takes his own professional development seriously and is always sharing new ideas on best practice. If I could afford it I'd have Mike and a housekeeper every day!" Christine Liddle, Edinburgh.

"In my first email to Mike last November I described myself as over 60, overweight and unfit but not happy to stay that way and asked if he could help. I didn’t actually believe that someone who was personal trainer to an American singing star would take the time to phone me, let alone take me on as a client. Out of all the Personal Trainers I had researched online Mike stood out as the most qualified and most highly regarded. However I felt desperate enough to try and had nothing to lose if he simply didn’t reply.

I couldn’t believe my luck when Mike promptly phoned me back and arranged to see me. More amazingly still he agreed to see me at a time outside his already long working hours, to fit in with my weekly visits to Edinburgh to look after my little grandson. Far from making me feel that I would be wasting his time Mike was so encouraging from our first meeting that I really believed that with his help I could be slimmer and fitter and stay that way!

As a new grandmother who had promised to care for a baby grandson for a day each week I was concerned that as he grew heavier and more active I would find it difficult to carry him up and down the stairs in my son’s house never mind the 18 concrete steps from the front door to the street. After all not only was I very overweight and unfit I was getting older by the day. However over the next three months, by following the dietary advice in 'How to Lose 10 Pounds/Years in 5 Weeks' and with Mike’s cheerful but firm encouragement during out PT sessions, I saw my weight drop by more than 20lbs! Amazing - especially when you consider that those three months included Christmas, New Year and a holiday abroad with as much free food and drink as I wanted!

By the end of February I was looking and feeling so much better and every week when I carried my grandson upstairs I was reminded of the weight I had lost . As he gained weight I lost weight - he was one year old at the end of February and weighed the same as the amount I had lost.!!

But it hasn’t stopped there. ‘Poor’ Mike had to go off to the States in March - I’m sure he would really rather have stayed in chilly Edinburgh working with me and his other Scottish clients - but Gwen Stefani had made him an offer he couldn’t refuse. I had a cunning plan though - I saved the last of my ten sessions so that Mike has to return to Edinburgh to complete the deal!!. In my head (and sometimes by email too) Mike still provides the encouragement to stick to the basic eating plan and increased physical activity so instead of putting weight back on, as happened so often in the past after a couple of months, I have continued to lose weight.

Now I am 2 stone lighter than when I met Mike for the first time and absolutely delighted to be able to say it!.
People ask me if Mike is expensive but I can truthfully say that my sessions with him were worth every penny - and more! I have wasted far more money on diet books and aids that produced at best only a small or temporary weight loss. Besides I have spent far more on new clothes and make-up etc. this summer than on my 10 sessions with Mike and I’ve loved every minute of it !! It’s brilliant to be able to buy fashionable summer clothes three sizes smaller that last year.
Best of all I find it easy to stay that way by following the basic principles of Mike’s eating plan - it’s not like being on a diet just a healthier way of eating that I thoroughly enjoy and one which gives me the energy and stamina to keep up with my little dynamo of a grandson!

Thanks Mike, thanks a million! Kay July ‘09
(PS I’ve now lost more than little William 16 months old weighs - shoes and all)
Kay Gall

Kay Gall - 30 lbs lighter and three dress sizes smaller! Well done Kay, we're proud of you! x

Following an accident a few years back, I tried on numerous occasions to return to training, both individually and as a member of numerous gyms. None of these attempts lasted, partly due to boredom but mainly due to dissatisfaction at no obvious improvement in my fitness level. I resolved myself to one final attempt before accepting life as a couch potato, and that’s when I happened across Mike Heatlie and his team. Almost immediately after beginning training with Mike the results for me were amazing. There was an obvious improvement in my general fitness and the shedding of the few unwanted pounds I’d been accepting as inevitable.

Mike helped me combat the demands of a shift work routine that had up to that point been dominating my life, leaving me lethargic and run down, with very little time nor energy to achieve anything else. He also offered sound practical advice concerning matters such as diet and sleep routines, and his energy and enthusiasm never wavered. He has helped me identify additional problems resulting from my original injuries, and I look forward to continuing to work with Mike to overcome these obstacles in order to realise my full potential. Thanks Mike! Mick Pedrick, Edinburgh. October 2010

"I wasn't that keen to go to a personal trainer but mike turned out to be a real find. I could see very quickly why Gwen Stefani paid for Mike to tour the world with her. His sessions would be totally brutal if it wasn't for his chirpy personality. He makes a hard workout session feel easy and it's a laugh too!." Martin, Edinburgh

"Altogether FAB!‎‎ I have been going to Mike for the past few months and cannot recommend him enough - he is patient, understanding, motivational and great fun. He really listens to what you are trying to achieve and really helps. I have lost over 4 inches and gone down 2 dress sizes!! He is extremely helpful with all aspects of nutrition and diet as well as exercises and trainign to do at home. Mike has helped me to identify a medical condition and I will definitely continue going to Mike for the forseeable future! All in all FAB!!!!!!" Claire Mills, Edinburgh

“I have been training with Mike now for close to a year. Having always been an active person through Cycling, Squash and 5 a Sides, I was looking for that “something extra” to improve performance.

I’m probably one of the few people who went to Mike at the outset who was not interested in losing weight or building big muscle. Consequently, Mike has developed our sessions to focus on my needs and set about developing routines to tone and improve lean muscle definition. No session is the same and Mike has a great ability to vary the sets and routines, whilst continuing to challenge you. This element of variety is absolutely crucial and fundamental to sustain the training regime and reach the set objectives. In addition, Mike is always on hand to deliver good quality nutritional advice.

Whilst there are a number of personal trainers in the market, there are very few who can transfer and enhance a key skill in any training objective – that of “mental toughness”. Mike has a unique ability to challenge your perceived mental limits and progress them to new levels. This is a very rare skill that is not easily taught, and is probably one of the most important factors to improving any type of physical performance - as well as an important and valuable life skill!

I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Mike as a personal trainer having experienced my own rapid progression over the past 12 months.” Niall Moffat, Edinburgh

"Amazing!!!‎‎ I started with Mike a few months ago because I'd always been over weight and tried the gym and diets many times. I felt really unhealthy!! Mike was so supportive I felt comfortable quickly and have lost almost three stone. Mike will support you with every aspect of a healthy lifestyle and it all just fell into place for me. Mike is flexible when arranging sessions and the facilities and equipment are excellent!!!!! I feel so much healthier and look better, dont think I would have made the progress I have without Mike!!" Amanda Waterson, Edinburgh

"There are those of us who are always about to live. We are waiting until things change, until there is more time, until we are less tired, until we get a promotion, until we settle down -- until, until, until. It always seems as if there is some major event that must occur in our lives before we begin living."

George Sheehan