I've believed for more than forty years that staying fit doesn't have to be complicated. You don't need expensive equipment, miracle diets or the latest fitness craze. You need a plan you can stick to.

My own fitness journey began in my thirties and has included walking, cycling, aerobics, step aerobics, aquarobics, running (including the Baghdad Marathon), spinning, strength training and many thousands of miles of rambling. I'll happily admit that, as a young man, I was probably the world's worst basketball and squash player. Fortunately, the gym doesn't care how skilful you are—only that you keep turning up.

After a career in Information Technology, followed by several years as a relationship counsellor, I retired in 2016. I've always enjoyed helping people solve problems, and today that same desire is focused on helping people improve their health and fitness.

In 2018, together with a few friends, I founded Bournemouth Happy Mondays Ramblers. Every Monday I still lead walks across East Dorset and the New Forest, encouraging people to stay active, enjoy the outdoors and improve both their physical and mental wellbeing.

I was born in Islington, North London, grew up in Enfield and now live in Bournemouth, just a short cycle ride from both my local gym and Bournemouth's beautiful six-mile beach.

I wrote Getting Fit Made Simple because I became frustrated by the conflicting advice surrounding fitness and nutrition. Everywhere you look there's another miracle diet, revolutionary workout or shortcut being promoted. In reality, lasting results come from understanding the basics and applying them consistently.

My aim is simple: to help ordinary people become fitter, healthier and more confident by explaining what really works—in plain English, without the hype.