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FOR-TIS /หfษหtษชs/ adjective
BORROWED FROM LATIN MEANING 'STRONG'
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We believe that with physical strength comes mental strength, and vice versa. Strength isn't only defined by the kilos that you can lift: strength can be defined in many different ways.
For you, it may be the sense of inner resilience you have to take on each day, or the empowering feeling you get when you run further, lift heavier or cycle for longer.
We are here to support your well-being and help you to find your inner strength, leaving you
FORTIS IN MIND & BODY
OUR CLASS COACHES
My journey into owning a gym and coaching hasn’t been as linear as you may expect.
I hadn’t always been into exercise, and only began to develop a more active lifestyle during my 20s. However, it transformed my sense of self worth and purpose, and with that I found belonging and confidence. Boxing caught my heart first, and then I started to lift.
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Creating a safe space for others to also experience the power of movement is what led me to create FORTIS. FORTIS is a space for all who wish to move past limiting beliefs and connect with others discovering what they too are truly capable of. Whether that’s measured by strength, speed or simply
feeling like you can take on the day,
you belong here.
I look forward to moving with you.
Caitlin Drabble
Founder and Owner
‘Pushing others Onward towards a life of health, strength and physical freedom.’
I set up Onward Training to help people
build strength, move better and learn skills they never thought possible. Bringing an extensive background in coaching and, most importantly, a passion for helping people, we will work together to achieve your goals.
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Whilst not an exhaustive list, to date I’ve helped people to reach the highest levels of functional fitness performance, achieve their first (and 10th!) pull up, learn how to lift weights; including Olympic weightlifting, compete in marathons, Hyrox and other endurance events and gain more confidence in the gym. See you in class!
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James Smith
Head of Programming
My introduction to gym based fitness wasn’t actually a very welcomed one, initially! As with any athlete and individual, being hit with a potentially career ending injury was pretty hard hitting and, subsequently, I found myself lost and in a very poor headspace. Reluctantly, I swapped the dance studio for the gym floor to trial some rehabilitation. A 4kg medicine ball felt like a 100kg boulder and my motivation wasn’t there; but persevering was the best thing I ever did for my body and mind, and as I began to lift weights, the weights started to lift me!
I too walked solo through the barn shutters of FORTIS at the beginning of 2023 as a new member. I was welcomed in with open arms and became part of the most uniquely supportive and uplifting community of coaches and members.
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Megan Smith
Coach and Admin Manager
I spent my formative years in the Royal Marines, continuing my passion for fitness upon leaving. Since then, I’ve coached in commercial gyms and been involved with CrossFit as a coach and manager. I’ve competed in various events including marathons, CrossFit, Olympic Weightlifting and I’m currently training for my first Hyrox.
I’m not naturally sporty or athletic so I’ve had to progress through many movement regressions and adaptations to get where I am. Additionally, I’m in my 40s now and have a young daughter which has changed my outlook and approach to training. Because of these factors, I can relate to the barriers that some may face and help many people in their fitness journey.
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Tom Laycock
Coach
Originally from New Zealand, I’ve been immersed in competitive sport my whole life. I was a professional rugby player and am now a professional rugby coach. I discovered my love for functional fitness while living in Hong Kong.โ
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While rugby coaching will always be at the heart of what I do, I found that coaching fitness and helping people move better gives me a huge buzz. In Hong Kong I ran bootcamps that quickly became more than just a workout group - they became a family, and that sense of community is something I carry into my coaching today.โ
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I believe the right gym community is essential to overall wellbeing. It’s not just about physical gains, but the emotional and social connections we build together.โ
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Craig Hammond
Coach
I joined the fitness industry just over a year ago as I transitioned from a life of professional dance and performing. Dancing always made me a fit, energetic person but finding the gym made me start to strive to be stronger and healthier, and to grow my body and confidence rather than trying to shrink and conform. This has given me a huge passion for making people feel empowered and strong.
I am a big believer in moving the body in a way you enjoy. From lifting weights and metcon classes, to spin, pilates and stretching - I love it all!
Stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new is so important and can transform both your mind and body.
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Mollie Parr
Coach
OUR PERSONAL TRAINERS
Work one-to-one or in a small group with one of our PTs by clicking the button below.
Want to work with one of our trainers based on their specialism?
Mention their name when prompted in your PT Enquiry Form.
CAITLIN
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
RETURN TO EXERCISE
BOXING
JAMES
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
OLYMPIC LIFTING
SPORTS SCIENCE
MEGAN
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
RETURN TO EXERCISE
MOBILITY
TOM
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
OLYMPIC LIFTING
BOXING
MOLLIE
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
PRE- & POSTNATAL FITNESS
PILATES & MOBILITY
JOSH
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
CALISTHENICS
MOBILITY
CRAIG
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
S&C FOR RUGBY
PAUL
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
RETURN TO EXERCISEโ
JENNY
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
RETURN TO EXERCISE
S&C FOR TRIATHLETES
FIND US
FORTIS can be found in the beautiful village of Saxondale. Our unique barn space is surrounded by rolling fields and grazing horses - it really is an escape from the hustle and bustle around us! Just a short drive, walk or cycle from Bingham, we really couldn't be easier to get to.
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As well as leading our daily group classes, our coaches are available for one-to-one and small group PERSONAL TRAINING. Submit the enquiry form above to receive our PT price list and book an initial consultation with one of the team to discuss your programme.
Escape the commercialised gym environment and join us for a fitness experience like no other here at FORTIS.
