There’s something quite special about John Pierson’s business venture, The Workout Network. This no-frills City gym, situated within a short walk from Monument Underground station aids beginners and intermediates with training advice and personal training sessions needed to hit their fitness goals.
In 2021, John quit his job to open a personal training company in the City, fast forward a few years, his dream is still very much alive. John’s bubbly personality and enthusiasm for training will keep you entertained as you try to navigate through the spasms of pain shooting through your thighs during those precisely orchestrated deadlifts.
Lara Bowman sat down with John Pierson, founder and CEO of The Workout Network, to discuss his vision for the business and the inspiration behind it. Read on to find out more.
What got you into Personal Training?
A. I wanted to do film studies. My Mum said don’t be insane, you’ll never get a job, do something you’re good at. I wasn’t a very talented sportsman, but I tried really hard so I did sports science at university. Exercise was really cathartic when my Dad committed suicide when I was 10. It was a lifeline, two hours when I didn’t have to think. I think exercise is the escape that alcohol and drugs promise.
What’s it like starting a business in the City?
A. I’ve always worked in the City and I’ve tailored the business for its workers. My clientele are extremely busy but have the means to make their life a bit easier. Flexibility is key. If they want to work out at 6AM, then I get to work for them.
I’m more obsessed with business than training these days. I like watching my baby grow. No one teaches you how to do a tax return in PT training. I taught myself how to build a website, and SEO and have just started playing with social media.
What’s your unique selling point?
A. Someone told me I’m an expert beginner trainer, they meant it disparagingly, but it’s a badge of honour. I find a way to make exercise bearable for people that have never been to the gym, who have been sitting at a desk for twenty years and try to help those who have never had a good experience with the gym. I try and meet people where they are at, and individualise their program to their goals.
Many people start the New Year with new fitness goals. What would be your advice to people starting out?
A. The best exercise is one that keeps you interested. Do it in baby steps, you can’t undo 20 years of bad habits in a few weeks. I often say, that slow progress is still progress.
What trends do you see in people wanting to suddenly transform their health?
A. Some people come from reducing certain markers, such as cholesterol and diabetes. Others come in to tackle certain pain points. However, there are clients that come in who wish to look and feel better. My job is all about relationships and building them.
Tell us about the charity you run.
A. I set up the charity Exercising Demons, which is a series of exercise events to raise awareness and money for children who have lost a parent. The goal is to raise money for children who have lost a parent. My Dad committed suicide when I was 12, my Mum died from non-smoking lung cancer in my early twenties and in 2021 my sister died leaving behind a four-year-old girl. I leverage the relationships I’ve built with city workers and train them for free in December.
For more information, visit The Workout Network
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