MEET LAUREN COATES

My Personal Journey.

As a young 8 year old, I loved dancing. I particularly enjoyed being on stage and performing in front of a crowd. The costumes, hair and makeup was a highlight for me. I wanted to experience every style of dancing, and was fortunate enough to take part. This included ballet, jazz, rhythmic gymnastics, modern, tap, calisthenics, Spanish and contemporary. I tried it all, and enjoyed it all. Even as a young girl I challenged myself with my dancing and always wanted to do the best possible performance. I continued dancing right through to the end of my teen years. Then I merged into the gym environment when I was about 17. I also participated in group some aerobic classes.

At the age of 21 I would never have imagined my life would take such a dark turn.

I found myself in an emotionally & physically abusive relationship for 5 years. I was a young adult and didn’t realize the extent of my situation, until it was extremely fearful. I was in a fight for my life everyday, and leaving my situation was even harder than staying at the time. When I look back, I am grateful to be here today. It wasn’t until I had my daughter at the age of 25 that I was brave enough to leave the abusive relationship. She gave me the strength I needed, to save my life.

Not knowing that the next phase was going to be an even bigger battle.

I was diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I was prescribed a combination of prescription drugs. I was definitely in a bad way, though as hard as it was I always saw a light at the end. I decided to self medicate instead of taking any prescribed drugs, this was the only way I felt I was able to control the situation at the time. I had no idea how the prescribed drugs would affect me long term, so I made a choice not to take them. I became dependent to specific drugs and situations that took me away from the symptoms of PTSD.

I started going to the gym again as it was a familiar and safe place for me, and I knew it was only going to benefit. I was approached by a personal trainer who gave me the support I needed to get myself on the right track and on the way to healing. I was 44 kg, about 10 kg under weight. He introduced me to the world of training. I instantly adapted, like a fish to water and it soon became my medicine. I gave up alcohol and all drugs that where a daily necessity in my life to function normally.

I trained hard for 12 months and went onto the stage for my first figure competition. I placed 3rd out of 11 girls, and I was so proud. I have never looked back. It became my passion and gave me hope. There is nothing else like training for your mind and body. I have experienced great hardship and trauma, training has given me confidence, direction, hope, and a will to succeed in anything I want in life. Knowing that anything is possible, when you believe in yourself. I want to share my years of experience and knowledge with you to help you achieve your goals and dreams too.

I will do this through getting to know you & working specifically to your individual needs. Advising and guiding you on the right path as you progress physically, emotionally & mentally. Mentoring you to reach your goals, and to continue to maintain with the knowledge and confidence you have gained through my training techniques & methods.

I believe that you can achieve anything you desire. All you need is genuine support to help you reach it.