Awards success for former Telford College student
A former Telford College student has won an award in a national business competition for the achievements of his personal fitness business.
Stuart Henderson runs Ideal Fitness, based at the Business Development Centre on Telford’s Stafford Park industrial estate.
It was named best health and fitness business in Shropshire at the Englands Business Awards – although Stuart says the bigger reward is seeing his clients thrive.
“There’s nothing better than watching someone reclaim their confidence, energy, and strength, and knowing they’ve done it in a way that lasts,” he says.
Stuart completed his BTec in business and finance at Telford College, then returned to the Wellington campus several years later to add a CMI level four diploma in management.
In 2008 he broke his back in a car accident, but says his fitness knowledge and specialist training – along with a fair helping of determination and dedication – allowed him to train his way to recovery.
“I can honestly say I am now fitter and stronger than ever and more determined to show others how exercise can radically improve lives.
“I am a level five personal trainer and a sports therapist. I help busy professionals over 35 achieve optimum health, fitness and performance so they can live the life they’ve always wanted.
“I help professionals take back control of their health and fitness, without fad diets, burnout bootcamps, or unrealistic plans that don’t fit into real life.
“My clients are business owners, leaders, and busy professionals who are done with quick fixes. Many are dealing with stress, old injuries, low energy, or simply feel stuck.”
He adds: “This work is personal for me. The serious car accident left me with a broken lower back and a bleak prognosis. I had to rebuild everything from the ground up.
“That experience gave me a deep understanding of what it takes to overcome setbacks – physically and mentally – and it’s shaped how I coach today.”
Stuart specialises in working with ‘busy professionals’ over the age of 40 who want to feel strong, capable, and in control of their health again
But he says his routines are suited to anyone tired of the ‘all or nothing’ mindset and looking for a long-term solution that fits into their lifestyle.
