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Former Royal Marines Physical Training Instructor
Marcus Cole
Eight years of military service taught me that real fitness isn't about looking good in a mirror — it's about being capable when it matters. Since 2020, I've been helping Bristol professionals over 35 reclaim their physical confidence through functional strength training that translates to real life.
Military Foundation
From Royal Marines to Civilian Coaching
My eight years as a Royal Marines Physical Training Instructor, including deployments to Afghanistan, taught me the difference between training for show and training for capability. In the military, your fitness can be the difference between mission success and failure — between coming home and not coming home.
- Responsible for the physical conditioning of Royal Marines across multiple deployments
- Developed injury prevention protocols for high-stress operational environments
- Trained personnel to maintain peak physical condition under extreme circumstances
- Learned to adapt training programs to real-world demands and constraints
When I left the military in 2019, I saw how civilian fitness had lost its way. Gyms focused on aesthetics over capability. Programs prioritized looking strong over being strong. I knew there was a better approach.
My Approach to Functional Strength
Five principles that guide every session, every program, and every client relationship.
Train Movements, Not Muscles
Every exercise must have a real-world application. If it doesn't translate to carrying shopping, lifting children, or climbing stairs, it doesn't belong in your program.
Consistency Beats Intensity
Sustainable progress trumps dramatic transformations every time. I'd rather you train consistently for years than burn out in months.
Address the Person, Not Just the Program
Your training must account for sleep, stress, work demands, and family commitments. Cookie-cutter programs don't work for real people with real lives.
Build Capability That Lasts
Long-term joint health and movement quality matter more than short-term strength gains. We're building a foundation for decades, not just months.
No Ego, No Intimidation
Fitness should enhance your life, not consume it. Leave the gym-bro culture at the door — we're here to build practical strength for practical people.
Qualifications & Continuing Education
Credentials backed by military experience and ongoing professional development.
Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certified
2022
Evidence-based nutrition coaching certification focusing on sustainable habit change and performance nutrition.
CIMSPA Level 4 Advanced Personal Trainer
2021
The highest level of personal training qualification in the UK, covering advanced program design, injury prevention, and specialist populations.
Royal Marines Physical Training Instructor
2012 – 2019
Military qualification in physical conditioning, injury prevention, and performance under pressure.
I invest in continuing education every year because the science of strength training constantly evolves. Recent courses include injury-specific exercise programming, advanced movement screening, and nutrition for over-35 professionals.
Local Roots
Why Bristol, Why Redland
I chose Bristol because it's a city that values substance over flash — much like my approach to fitness. The converted industrial unit in Redland perfectly captures what I'm about: functional, no-nonsense, and focused on getting the job done.
Private Studio
Away from gym intimidation and ego — just you and your training.
Healthcare Partnerships
Working with local healthcare providers for comprehensive client care.
Outdoor Training
Sessions at Blaise Castle Estate for variety and fresh air.
Serving Professionals
Supporting the professional community that makes Bristol's economy thrive.
Beyond the Training Floor
When I'm not coaching, you'll find me hiking the Cotswolds, reading about exercise science, or working on my own movement practice. I believe in living the principles I teach — staying active, managing stress, and maintaining perspective on what really matters.
Family Time Is Sacred
I protect my Sundays — because balance isn't just something I preach, it's something I practice.
Continuous Learning
Keeping sharp and current means better results for you. The science evolves — and so do I.
Enjoyment, Not Punishment
Physical activity should be enjoyable. If you dread your training, something's wrong with the program — not with you.
Consistency Over Intensity
Real strength comes from showing up regularly, not from destroying yourself occasionally.