When one of the world’s great academic institutions comes to you for advice, you cannot help feeling extremely flattered and excited.

As well as it’s notable academic achievements, Oxford University also boasts an unrivalled number of sporting honours - from the legendary Sir Roger Bannister running the first sub 4 minute mile in 1954 to a host of competitors and medalists in the recent 2014 Commonwealth Games.

At the heart of Oxford University’s sporting success is it’s state of the art Sports Centre, which not only prepares athletes capable of elite performances but also caters for fitness enthusiasts among the local student, staff and public communities.

Staff from the Oxford University Sports Centre recently attended a Functional Fitness Workshop taught by our Training Academy Manager, Mark Laws. They spent time learning about the theory and principles of what ‘functional’ training is before putting this into practise with a wide range of Jordan Fitness products, including Kettlebells, Sandbag Extreme, Sandbag Pro, Training Ropes, Medicine Balls, Soft Plyo Boxes, Bodyweight Suspension systems, Power Bands and more!! This workshop was held at the Cybex UK Head Office which acts as our Training Academy venue in the Midlands. 

Oxford University Gym Manager, Matt Queralt, said “I have been on hundreds of different fitness related courses over the years so was intrigued to see what the Jordan Functional Fitness Workshop would be like. The Cybex training facility was top drawer, not only a fantastic training space but also great class rooms for the theory side of the course. Mark Laws our Master Trainer for the day had a laid back and flexible approach to guiding us though our day, he was always willing to listen to different opinions and training philosophies and not scared to get involved in the physical side of the day. I found the course knowledgeable and interesting with a fun element. I have added to my skill set and took lots of new great ideas to introduce to clients and members. I would recommend this workshop to any fitness professionals and will be looking to book more courses through the Jordan Training Academy in future for myself and my team”.

Also taking advantage of Mark’s expertise was the star of Sky1's "Obese: A Year to Save My Life", Jason Stennett. Jason, who has been in the industry for 20 years and now mentors fitness professionals looking to increase their income, said “this workshop was informative, educational and relevant – three things that are vital for personal development. I would recommend this workshop for any Personal Trainer looking to enhance their skill set”.

Mark added “this was a great day, as if teaching staff from such a prestigious institution wasn’t exciting enough…then we had a ‘celebrity’ trainer attending too!! There was a great mix of experience and expertise in the room and everybody went home learning something valuable – which is only ever going to be a good thing”.

If you wish to host a similar event at your venue, or even visit our HQ in Norfolk or our Midlands venue, then email marklaws@jordanfitness.co.uk for information.