Personal Trainer Prioritizes Confidence for Clients with Learning Disabilities

A personal trainer specializing in working with children and adults who have learning disabilities has identified instilling confidence in his clients as the central aspect of his profession. Callum Foster, a 22-year-old resident of Woodbridge, Suffolk, established This Ability Coach. This initiative provides training sessions conducted at Fortitude Fitness gym in Ipswich. His grandfather, who also worked with children with disabilities, served as his inspiration. Edward Wagland, 22, an individual with Down’s syndrome, participates in Mr. Foster’s sessions and stated that these sessions are assisting him in preparing for his future. Mr. Foster’s professional activities include part-time work as a personal trainer alongside his employment with the Ipswich Town Foundation. He articulated that his personal training services extend beyond mere exercise and physical well-being. He elaborated, “It’s about making them happy, giving them the confidence and support that they deserve.” He further added, “They’re amazing individuals and they deserve the recognition and respect that I can give them.” Mr. Foster also commented, “Seeing them being independent is incredible for me and I’m lucky that I can see it when maybe they don’t.” He concluded, “It why I do what I do.” Mr. Foster clarified that his primary focus is on building confidence in his clients, describing Mr. Wagland as “determined, strong and incredible”. He further stated, “I want [Edward] to have that support and that feeling that he can talk to anyone which sometimes can be difficult for children with disabilities.” Mr. Foster also remarked, “At the end of the day he’s the one that shows up every week out of his own time, on top of all the other stuff he’s got going on.” He concluded, “I can’t do what I do without him, his energy, his support and dedication and the whole reason I do it is to showcase that to people.” Mr. Wagland characterized his personal trainer as a “genius” and “excellent” in his interactions. The two have subsequently developed a strong friendship. Mr. Wagland commented, “He knows a lot about me, he’s always so proud of me and he’s happy in general I’m doing this stuff because it’s good for my health, my social [life], it’s building me up ready for my life.” He added, “It also helps me to think and have less stress from college.” Helen Wagland, Mr. Wagland’s mother, expressed commendation for the work Mr. Foster has performed with her son. She stated, “Not only has Edward gained some sort of independence because he’s doing something on his own with someone like Callum, who is a male role figure to be really applauded, but he’s doing it alone with him.” She continued, “It gives Edward confidence, it gives him independence and independence doesn’t come easily to someone like Edward.” She concluded, “We’re very grateful, it’s been smashing. Edward loves it, he keeps asking when is his next PT session.” For updates on Suffolk news, follow BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.