Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Kevin Russell and I’m an online personal trainer. I like to think I adopt a healthy approach to getting results, incorporating nutritional and training methods which focus on sustainability rather than the common “quick fix” approach.
I feel the more satisfaction and enjoyment you get from nutrition and exercise, the more likely you are to adopt it as a continual part of your life, rather than just a passing phase. It’s all about finding a balance between getting results and having a life!
What brought your brand about? How and why did it start?
Health and fitness have been an integral part of my life since I was a kid. My dad showed me how to do press-ups and sit-ups when I was 12 and since then my love and passion for fitness has grown and grown. Just over two years ago I decided that it was time to stop being afraid of failing, and follow my passion in life, so I set up a Facebook page which I use to talk about my approach to training, nutrition and mind-set.
My brand is as much about being healthy physically and mentally, through a balanced approach to exercise and nutrition.
Describe your audience! Who is your target?
I think my audience is quite mixed but my clients tend to be aged between 20 and 30 years of age. In terms of my content, I aim to cater for those just starting off their fitness journeys and those in the advanced stages. I’ve competed as a natural bodybuilder in the past, coming second twice and winning once, so I’ve experienced the hard-core approach to training and nutrition, as well as the more balanced approach. Not only have I enjoyed the more balanced approach a hell of a lot more, but I’ve also seen superior results from it, so I make time for all aspects of life, not just the gym!
What's your media diet?
My media diet would have to be my e-mails first, followed by Instagram and then Facebook.
Name three people you respect in the industry
Becca Gillen – one of the most honest and kind people I know! Her content is great because she provides really helpful information rather than just a ton of selfies and meaningless quotes. She does her thing and isn’t influenced by what people think, which I really respect!
Paul Dermody – a great guy with a wealth of knowledge in terms of fitness, nutrition and mind-set.
Matt Ogus – a bit further afield and more internationally recognised but I really relate to and appreciate his content.
Proudest post? Finest moment to date?
My proudest moment to date would have to be getting a first class honour in the Master’s that I recently completed. Exercising and eating well has never been an issue for me, but in terms of education, I never believed in my abilities. I began really struggling with anxiety and depression just over three years ago. I was repeating my second year of college and failing it, I couldn’t get a job and had absolutely zero belief in myself. Thankfully I’ve always been a fairly open person, so I talked to my family, friends, counsellors, took medication for a while and really began focusing on making myself stronger as a person. I managed to get through that year of college with a 42% average, so to get a first class honours in my Master’s just three years later is a big milestone for me.
What is your attitude to well-being, mentally and physically?
My attitude is that it all goes hand-in-hand. Spend time on making yourself a mentally strong person, like you would making yourself a physically strong person. Meditate, educate yourself, talk to people and realise that if you are going through a rough period, that’s exactly what it is, a period in your life, not your whole life. The tough times teach you a hell of a lot more than the good times!
How has your life changed since you started your brand?
It has completely changed my life for the better. I make a living from my passion, I help people achieve their goals and it has helped me become a happier, more confident and content person.
Take home message: follow your passion in life and don’t be afraid to fail!
What’s your favourite and least favourite thing about fitness and fitness trends on social media?
My favourite thing about the fitness industry is that because of the abundance of information available online, people are able to change their lives and their physiques with the click of a button. My least favourite is the aspect is the fake and misleading content that a lot of people post, especially on Instagram.
I did my thesis on how Instagram influences body image in men and the most prominent factors were people constantly comparing themselves to others but also the fact that Instagram is a highlight reel for people.
When have you ever posted a picture of yourself overweight and depressed? Never! So it’s important to realise that what you see on Instagram is not reality and to focus on your own journey.
Tell us a secret - something we should know about you?
Before setting up my Facebook page, I actually set one up but deleted it. I was so afraid of what people would think, that I didn’t think I could go through with it! Thankfully I copped on to myself, made it public and haven’t looked back since.
What’s the one thing you want people to learn from your work?
That achieving your health and fitness goals isn’t rocket science. Figure out what you enjoy, be patient, work hard and the results will come.
Where do we find you?
You can find me on my website, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram or contact me directly at kevinrussellfitness@gmail.com .
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