Leah Paton

My name is Leah Paton, and I’m a 25 years old personal trainer living in London. Originally being from Stoke-on-Trent, I moved to London and I am building a successful personal training career. I also study nutrition, and I am currently studying for my Level 4. I am continually learning and always trying to improve, the fitness industry is ever-changing and it’s important to keep up. My dream one day is to own my own studio, along with a nutrition clinic all in one. My clients will get bespoke packages and lots of support. I used to struggle with weight loss, I have lost over 4.5 stone. I used to be a yo-yo dieter and a binge eater, however, through education I have learnt how to beat these tendencies and I use my experiences to help other people. I also love animals, I have a degree in veterinary health studies, they’re my passion besides fitness. I love social media too, creating content and being creative. My family and friends are also a massive part of my life.

I have a condition called lipoedema. This affects 11% of women in the UK and I was diagnosed aged 19. This is a condition where the lymphatic system doesn’t work properly, so the vessels are “leaky”, meaning abnormal fat cells build up over time which CANNOT be lost through diet or exercise. I had 4 operations privately to remove it all, but ever since my diagnosis I have been researching into ways to alleviate symptoms and possibly stop the progress of the condition. I found working out consistently, as well as eating a nutritionally balanced diet, minimising dairy and meat, to be the best outcome. My diagnosis helps me to understand my clients’ needs more than ever and my empathy and understanding with my clients’ goals and struggles.