The 5 Best Personal Trainers in Glasgow Who Helped Us Reach Our Fitness Goals
Starting a fitness journey can be intimidating, but the right support makes all the difference.
I’ve worked with a personal trainer who made my fitness journey smoother, and I’ve also seen how other ones in the city tailor their approach to suit first-timers as well as seasoned gym-goers.
The best ones ensure you get the best out of every session. If you’re committed to making a real change in your fitness, these are the best trainers in Glasgow to check out!
How much does personal training in Glasgow cost?
Personal training in Glasgow typically costs between £25 and £60 per session.
Rates can vary depending on the trainer’s experience, the services provided, and whether they work from a gym.
1. DMC Fitness
Address: 12A Sandyford Pl
Phone: +44 141 226 3354
Business hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 7 AM to 8 PM
DMC Fitness was founded in 2006 by Davie McConnachie, who has a Higher National Diploma in Fitness, Health, and Exercise. His sports background and coaching experience have made DMC Fitness a trusted training provider.
They provide several training packages, including the Diamond Elite programme for professionals, the Platinum Body Transformation programme, and the Gold Health and Fitness programme. They also offer online personal training for flexibility.
I went for the Gold Health and Fitness programme, which includes ten one-on-one sessions, and I found it really beneficial for a more tailored fitness experience.
One of the things I really appreciated was receiving the free ebook, “Mobility is Medicine,” which came with a set of exercise routines and demo videos to improve flexibility and mobility.
The regular check-ins, goal setting, and personalised guidance really stood out to me. They helped me stay motivated and track my progress consistently, which made a big difference in my results.
However, for those who want to train on Sundays and Mondays, DMC Fitness might not be ideal, as it’s closed on those days.
Focused and Effective Training
“I have been with DMC for 12 weeks now. On the first day I met Davie and Grant who were very specific in the consultation to ensure the best type of training/coaching for me. They paired me up with Marc, who is a very knowledgable member of Davie’s team. My issues were mobility but my initial focus was strength. Marc has been working on both aspects and monitoring closely. I now feel like the back pain I have carried for years is finally starting to ease off and my strength is improving every week. The best thing about training with Marc and DMC is the understanding of how to train efficiently as opposed to sporadically. They continually make it easy for me to understand the process and now I can see results in body and mind that make me enjoy fitness.
DMC are extreme professionals that are friendly yet assertive, so can therefore help anyone seriously boost or even start their fitness journey.
The gym is great too, it is extremely personal so you really get good value from your session.”
– Lang Brothers, Google Review
Supportive and Transformative Coaching
“I had always been physically fit after a lifetime of competitive team, combat and endurance sports. Moreover I have had a successful career and always felt mentally strong and naturally resilient. However a few years ago a series of emotional, health and professional crises left me overweight, unfit and lacking the confidence to take that first step back on the road to health. I had met Davie some years earlier when we were both completing the 54 miles in 24 hours of the Cateran Yomp. Our shared military backgrounds led to an immediate connection with him and I watched with interest over the years as he grew his company. I immediately sought his help and have never looked back. Davie doesn’t give you the answers; he coaches you to find them from within. He doesn’t help you back on to your feet; he gives you the strength to do it for yourself. He gives you structure and direction within which you can truly grow. He reminds you of the importance of discipline and consistency.
6 months on I am leaner, fitter and stronger than I have been for years. Importantly I am happier and more fulfilled. DMC has resulted in improvements in every aspect of my life, I feel it and people see it. I simply cannot recommend Davie and his team highly enough – don’t delay whatever your age, situation or desire – DMC will help you to become the best version of yourself”
– Kenny Boag, Google Review
2. Saadiah Arfan – Female Personal Trainer
Address: Fitness, Spiersbridge Business Park, 5 Spiersbridge Way, Thornliebank
Phone: +44 7719 102148
Business hours: Open daily – 7 AM to 7 PM
Saadiah Arfan is a personal trainer with a Level 3 qualification and offers short courses, specialising in helping women achieve their health goals.
She offers a range of programs, including a 12-week 1-to-1 personal training plan, small group sessions, and a Trim n Tone online program. These programs cover fat loss, toning, and nutritional guidance and provide regular check-ins for accountability.
Her approach helps women lose weight while enjoying their favourite foods, focusing on long-term success without restrictive dieting. Progress is tracked every 4 weeks using five metrics: weight, measurements, clothing fit, photos, and mental well-being.
Saadiah’s programs don’t need a gym membership, making them great for those with little time or space. Additionally, prices depend on the program, and she offers a money-back guarantee if there are no results after 30 days.
However, one downside is that Saadiah’s services are tailored specifically for women, which may limit options for men seeking similar training.
Effective coaching
“After completing a few blocks of Saadiah’s group personal training classes, I have felt much stronger! I’m so grateful to have improved my fitness levels and have the confidence to lift heavier weights. I used to be able to only work with weights less than 5kg but under Saadiah’s guidance, support and encouragement, I have been able to comfortably carry and use weights 10kg and above! Attending classes consistently has meant that I feel lighter! The group environment that Saadiah creates is great for staying motivated and helping you meet your goals. I appreciate how enthusiastic and helpful Saadiah is! Thank you 😊”
– Yusra Ilahi, Google Review
Life-changing results
“I was told in July that my blood sugar levels were high and I was on diabetic spectrum. I decided to start weights I learned from Saadiah, in few weeks with consistent weights training I have managed to lower the blood sugars. Really pleased that I am not diabetic anymore. My arthritis pain in the knee has gone and I feel great. Thank you Saadiah for your friendly and down to earth approach. Also I have managed to loose over 13lbs and gone down from size 16 to size 10 in 13 weeks. My perimenopause issues are reduced significantly and I feel much stronger, healthier and confident. I will recommend Saadiah for anyone looking to change their views about exercise and weights. Never thought I would enjoy lifting weights at my age of 51 but here I am.
Blessed to be part of your weights class Saadiah.♥️”
– Ghazala Amin, Google Review
3. Reactive Training
Address: Block 2, Unit 5, Nuneaton Industrial Estate
Phone: +44 7921 151411
Business hours: Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 7 PM
Reactive Training offers small-group personal training, fitness classes, and nutrition coaching. Their 6-Week Gym Challenge includes up to 5 group PT sessions per week, weekly body composition scans, and group boxing classes.
The cost ranges from £30 to £100 per week, depending on your goals. There’s a money-back guarantee if you attend at least 3 sessions weekly and follow the nutrition plan.
Members benefit from a medical-grade Accuniq body composition scanner, which tracks fat, muscle, and bone mass. They also receive nutrition coaching integrated with MyFitnessPal to help them stay on track and reach their goals.
For those interested in events like the Hyrox fitness race, the gym’s strength and conditioning programming can help prepare you. Their varied approach to fitness ensures that each session brings something new.
However, a downside is that there are limited available slots, and the gym can get quite full during peak times.
Community Support
“Amazing gym, and wonderful coaches! If you’d asked me about exercising a year ago, I’d say ‘no way’, however, I’ve been training for a year now and even took part in a fitness competition last month! Something I could have never imagined before, so I have to thank the amazing team there for all the help and encouragement through all this time.
The sense of community is one of a kind and something you won’t find in any other gym. The incredible support you get from everyone keeps you going. I’m happy to be part of Reactive Training and keeping active!”
– Basima Chelal (Bousi), Google Review
Motivating Progress
“I was new to Hyrox style of training and it definitely gave me the kick start I needed. Loads of people said to me – is that style of training not for machines or people that are really fit, but it wasn’t, anyone can do it and I was definitely proud of what I achieved in such a short time. Taking part in the 6 week challenge motivated me and taught me a new style of exercise and gave advice on nutrition. I progressed lifting 30kg to 80kg trap bar deadlifts! I could see my body change shape as I started to tone up and get stronger. I didn’t see much difference on the scales but I felt, healthier, fitter and better about myself, which built my confidence and made me realise that the numbers on the scales aren’t what’s important. The coaches are very supportive and it’s such a lovely group of people, who made me feel welcome the moment I joined. I would definitely recommend Reactive to anyone interested in getting fit, or getting involved in Hyrox training and/or competition. They have great socials as well and training, which is a nice bonus. Overall, it was a great experience. 10/10 😃 ❤️”
– Diane Mckendrick, Google Review
4. Glasgow Functional Fitness
Address: Studio 3/3b, 54 Washington St
Phone: +44 7729 612932
Business hours: Open daily – 6:30 AM to 10 PM
Glasgow Functional Fitness is owned by Paul McArdle, who has over 30 years of experience in the fitness industry. He holds certifications such as the Level 3 Personal Trainer and diplomas in Swedish and Sports & Remedial Massage.
They provide a variety of fitness services, including one-to-one personal training (with a free trial on the first session), small group sessions, and online coaching. They also offer sports and remedial massage, hot stones massage, and nutrition coaching.
Personal training sessions last from 30 minutes to 1 hour, with small group sessions for up to 6 people. Online training is available for 30-minute or 1-hour sessions, offering flexibility for those with busy lifestyles.
For those recovering from injury, their sports and remedial massage services offer targeted techniques to reduce pain and improve mobility.
However, the gym space can feel a bit cramped, especially during peak times. Additionally, parking is available nearby but can be limited.
Exceeds expectations
“Excellent gym and terrific personal training and massage / physio from Paul McArdle. He has invested heavily in his private gym and it is a pleasure to visit. Paul is skilled and enthusiastic, and makes personal training sessions fun and varied. He is an excellent judge of how far to push his clients during training sessions. I have been a client of Paul’s for three years and have benefited enormously in terms of physique, stamina, strength, weight loss and diet.”
– David Sleight, Google Review
First-class environment
“I’ve been training with Paul for a number of years now and can’t speak highly enough about the quality of sessions he puts together for me.
Paul adapted quickly when face to face training wasn’t an option during the various lockdowns we faced and kept me on my toes with engaging sessions delivered over face time.
Since moving to his new gym he has some how managed to take things up to another level and I’m now getting first class training in a first class environment.
What ever your level of fitness or goals Paul can help you achieve them.”
– James Goodman, Google Review
5. StemarrFitness
Address: 8 Vinicombe St, Hillhead
Business hours: Open 24/7
StemarrFitness offers personal training both in-person and online, with customised plans. The trainer has over 12 years of fitness and sports experience, having worked with hundreds of clients and completed more than 500 hours of one-to-one sessions.
The programmes are suitable for all ages and fitness levels, whether you want to bulk up or lose fat. They increase in intensity over four weeks, with a de-load week for recovery, and include nutrition plans.
A key feature of these programmes is flexibility for clients with limited equipment or time. The trainer provides alternative exercises for those without certain gear and suggests adjustments for people who can’t commit to a full four sessions per week.
Unfortunately, one downside is that, as there is only one personal trainer, clients may experience scheduling difficulties or limited support if the trainer’s availability is already fully booked. This could affect the consistency of sessions for some clients.
Patient and Supportive Trainer
“Stefano is my first ever personal trainer. I started training with zero experience and I was a little bit anxious to begin with. Stefano is incredibly patient, friendly and very professional, and a naturally warm person, which made me feel at ease and it helped build my confidence. He is extremely knowledgeable and creates a well structured, individually tailored training plan which suits my needs perfectly. He knows exactly when he can push me further to reach my goals and when to take a break. I couldn’t recommend him highly enough.”
– Stefan Serban, Google Review
Personalised Approach and Genuine Care
“Stefano is an excellent personal trainer. He is supportive, kind, and considerate of his clients and their individual and personal needs, characters, and goals. He helped me understand what was best for me and my health journey, both physically and psychologically. I am happy to continue my gym life with him and to achieve new milestones together. Highly recommend him to everyone as he’s simply a genuine person and a great professional!”
– Lucrezia Maciocco, Google Review