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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
I’ve been in the health and fitness industry for over a decade now; building my coaching experience in competitive gymnastics and, for the past six years, in strength and conditioning. I’ve guided and coached a hugely diverse range of clients, in both individual and class settings, to becoming the fittest and healthiest versions of themselves.
Beyond my coaching, I am a proudly accomplished CrossFit athlete. I’ve qualified and competed at a number of competitions, including the CrossFit European Championships and Arnold Fitness Games.
I am so excited to work with the FORITS community and hopefully use my previous experience to take members to the next
level of fitness. โโ
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Steph Wayment
Coach
‘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
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
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 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
Originally from New Zealand, I’ve been immersed in the world of competitive sports my whole life. I was a professional rugby player and now a professional rugby coach. I moved to Hong Kong and it was during my time there that I discovered my love for functional fitness.
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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 to move better - and have fun along the way! - gave me a massive buzz and a fulfilment I hadn't anticipated. I ran bootcamps while in Hong Kong that quickly became more than just a workout group - it was a family. The bonds we formed through shared effort and support were truly special, and it’s that sense of community that I now carry with me in my fitness coaching.
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I believe that the right gym community is essential to overall wellbeing. It’s not just about the physical gains, but the emotional and social connections we create together.
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I’m super excited to be part of the FORTIS team. It's a place where fitness, wellbeing and community are at the core of everything, and I'm honoured to be part of the journey.
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Craig Hammond
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
STEPH
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
CROSSFIT & OLY LIFTING
PRE & POST NATAL
TOM
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
OLYMPIC LIFTING
BOXING
MOLLIE
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
RETURN TO EXERCISEโ
PILATES & MOBILITY
JOSH
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
CALISTHENICSโ
MOBILITY
CRAIG
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
S&C FOR RUGBY
PAUL
SPECIALISM:
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
RETURN TO EXERCISEโ
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.
