solar fitness

I worked as a PA in London for years until I decided to change my career. I wanted to make a difference to people’s health and wellbeing, so I left my job and took time out to train and qualify in Cyprus. Having compared costs for the UK course, it worked out around the same price as studying in Cyprus, it wasn’t a difficult decision as the sunny weather was just too tempting! I studied in Cyprus from July-Sept 2006 and was taught by both Pat and Jim whilst on my course. I couldn’t have asked for better tutors as they really inspired and motivated the whole group, making the learning experience fun and enjoyable. I specialize in Personal Training for women now and enjoy running my own business. Pat and Jim helped me achieve my goal!

Having been a dancer all my life and perused my career on the stage I decided to change direction and enrol on a personal training and sports massage course. I had heard lots of good things about REPs courses from my brother who had also attended a similar qualification in the UK. Rather than doing a course in England, I decided to go to Cyprus as it seemed like an ideal opportunity to experience a new country while gaining the qualification I wanted. It was a little scary going back into the classroom after not having sat in a lesson since school but Pat & Jim explained everything so clearly and enthusiastically it made learning much easier and very enjoyable. While in Cyprus, I found that everyone supported each other and even though they came from different walks of life they had the same goal of passing the course. I made life long friends during my time in Cyprus and enjoyed a great life experience as well as gaining the qualifications I wanted. Since passing my course I have based my self in Devon and set up my own business – Lightning Fitness. I am involved in G.P referral schemes, teaching dance & aerobics classes as well as personal training and massage.

Whenever I tell people I became a qualified Personal Trainer in Cyprus I always get the same reaction… their jaw drops, and a confused “Why?” comes slurring out. I answer by asking them if they would prefer spend 8 weeks in England or in Cyprus and it seems the answer suddenly becomes very obvious and a big grin comes over their faces! My time in Cyprus was one of the best experiences I have had and I have memories that will last forever; from the glorious weather enjoyed all year round to the relative cheapness of living. Also because you are away from home, you spend your time training and living with like minded individuals who make the whole experience that much better (that and the cheap drinks you don’t tell anyone about on a Friday nights!). The lecturers are first class, both of whom have outstanding knowledge in their fields and are simply great to be around. I would advise anyone taking a Personal Training course to take it in Cyprus.

Last summer (2006) I spent 3 months in Cyprus studying for my personal training diploma, and in all honesty I had the best time of my life out there! The course was interesting, well delivered and directed and there was a willingness and keen interest among all who attend. Any time there was a problem, it was dealt with the minimum of fuss and maximum efficiency. Course aside, the working environment is second to none. I personally have been all over the world and can happily report that this destination and course is both unparalleled and unique.

Anyone who wants to be the best they can be should train with these Guys! Pat and Jim’s knowledge is worthy of the trip alone. I currently work alongside numerous Personal Trainers and for some reason they just don’t seem to know as much as I do! I solely put these down to Pat and Jim’s teaching methods and absolutely vast subject knowledge. Just watching they guys working out will give you hundreds of training ideas, and then when you add the class work to it you just keep picking their brains and discovering more things. They teach you how to break everything down to its basics – even things that seem complex at first. The course is a challenging, but it is hugely enjoyable and within minutes of arriving at the airport you felt like you knew them both. The night life is just a 5 minute walk down the road, all the bars soon get to know you are there for a while so they look after you, but don’t forget your class work you only do that once!

As an ex student I was more than happy to write a testimonial for Patrick and James when they approached me. Both Pat & Jim helped to get me started in the fitness industry feeling very well prepared and inspired! I have been doing really well ever since the course and have had many different experiences including going straight into Fitness First as a PT the very week that I returned from my course! Since that time I have worked in the USA in Louisiana and have now been back in England with Fitness First for a year working as a regional Fitness Manager and Trainer to new Personal Trainers and fitness managers that join the company. I have certainly been very busy and have been lucky enough to be with the largest fitness chain in the world and also have been recognized by the Fitness director as a future leader within the company.

I first became interested in health & fitness at the age of 14, from leaving school I went on to spend 3 years at college to do an AS in sport & leisure & also a BTEC National Diploma in Sports Science. After qualifying I went on to work full time in a gymnasium where I put myself through various fitness courses, which made me more & more interested about health & fitness. My passion grew for the industry so I decided I wanted to gain the highest qualification possible. After doing some research came across a course that would allow me to study abroad and signed up straight away! I loved every minute of my Cyprus experience and if I could I would go back every year. The course was excellent! The tutors were always there if you needed help or guidance – I couldn’t have asked for more. Just imagine studying through the week, relaxing on the beach after class & weekends – it was bliss. I think it was the best three months of my life so if you’re thinking about it, go for it!!! I remember at the end of the course when I passed my exam I sat on the beach thinking that one of my life long dreams had come true & I know that I would not have been able to do it without the constant help & reassurance of Pat & Jim. Since qualifying I have gone on to be successfully self employed and offering Personal Training at various gyms & peoples homes, I am also able to offer nutrition guidance & also Sports Massage. So thank you Pat & Jim.