What our clients say about us
Marcia French, London
I've been suffering for 2 long years with sciatica and had pretty much exhausted all conventional forms of treatment such as physio, acupuncture, anti-inflammatory tablets, steroid injections etc. My latest effort to find a relief was a form of thai yoga that involved a lot of stretching, which did provide some relief but only temporary. A journey on the District line in September on the way to work whilst reading The Metro newspaper introduced me to Integra and MAT.
3 months later I can honestly say that I could not be more satisfied with the improvement in my condition. I no longer have to rely on painkillers everyday and I feel I am in control of managing my symptoms in a natural way. Gentle muscle manipulation as well as strengthening exercises have gradually helped to restore the balance in my back and hip to the point where I don't get up out of bed everyday with a backache.
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Sarah C, London
After finishing 15 years of schooling, I was very much a stranger to the gym and viewed it as a place of self torture for people worthier and stronger than myself. In my first session with Martina, I realised how wrong I was. She showed me all of the tension I didn't realise I was harbouring, and proceeded to release those cramped muscles.
Now if I miss my deadlifts I'm barely worth knowing! I feel so much stronger, more relaxed and energised after a session. I can't thank Martina enough for how she was improved my body and attitude. For the first time in a long time I am starting to feel proud of how I am starting to look, and gaining some much needed muscle and mass in a kind, supportive and incredibly knowledgeable environment. I would recommend MAT to anyone, though I can't say I'd give up my sessions to make room!
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Mark Cater, Cohn & Wolfe, New York (previously London)
I worked with Michael for several years during which he introduced me to MAT. My strength, endurance and overall sense of wellbeing improved during our training programme.
From small beginnings I am now marathon fit, ache free and sleeping well again. My fitness has become an important part of my life and I have been able to stay motivated due to the sheer variety of the training he undertook with me.
Michael even helped me as I relocated to New York with a local trainer and my programme hasn't missed a beat. This means I'll be able to step right back in to where we left off when I return to the UK.
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Grace Toro, GP, London
I used to have almost daily lower backache from stress fractures, and a niggling R knee (after effects from a once dislocated kneecap). All a result of damage I had done to my body as a teenager from practising martial arts. I always knew my issues probably stemmed from being slightly hyper-mobile with a relatively weak musculature but despite doing a variety of exercises and programmes over the years, the aches persisted.
I discovered MAT by chance and its philosophy made perfect sense to me, and I liked the environment of the studio being friendly and chilled-out. I have recommended MAT to others who have picked up injuries over the years but haven't been able to treat the root cause of their ongoing discomfort.
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Fabio Piras, Designer
I am truly grateful to Michael Goulden. His training method pleasantly re-educates the body and mind through an intelligent process of physical exercise that reawakens muscles; restructuring and realigning the body.
What I most enjoy is to be engaged and encouraged on a continuously developing path that challenges me physically whilst motivating me; giving me a powerful sense of well being everyday.
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Anna Walsh, Director/Founder, Strategy42, London / D.C.
I like to learn as I train, rather than just do the reps. So I like to work with trainers who know a lot, are able to figure things out and are a bit creative. Integra ticks all of these boxes.
Michael gets the best out of you because he's always trying to look at the bigger picture, rather than just getting through that session. He's thoughtful about his work, clever and versatile - which, for me, meant he was brilliant to work with both when we were working to improve my general fitness levels and when we were working on my recovery from a cycling accident.
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Patrick Savage, MD, OJK Accountancy, London
My fitness training and my diet has been supervised by George Grose since mid-December.
The results are quite frankly astonishing. I feel better, sleep better, have more energy and have lost 13 lbs and importantly, with no pain!
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Jenny Watts, London
For the past year I have suffered one and off with chronic knee pain and have had more than 25 sessions of physiotherapy which did alleviate the symptoms of pain. The pain did however always come back and I presumed I would have to simply live with it.
I was introduced to Michael Goulden by my personal trainer and have worked with him on readdressing the imbalances that are at the root cause of the knee pain for a couple of months. If you want a quick fix then this is not for you however if you are prepared to be patient and work on the body as a whole I know from personal experience that there is much to benefit from the MAT approach in working towards sustainable muscle strength and range of motion which aids healing.
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William Booth, London
What a revelation: A trainer who's listened to my goals and devised an appropriate programme. A trainer who's careful I do not injure myself. A trainer who offers variety and fun too. George is excellent value for money given the quality of the training
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Shannon Kreps, London
My main indulgence during my pregnancy was continuing to work with Michael. We continued our personal training and MAT work and I'm certain that Muscle Activation Techniques helped me avoid a lot of the aches and pains associated with pregnancy.
We moderated some of the exercises during training due to the bump, but it certainly didn't stop me doing most things!
Read more of Shannon's story in the Daily Mail article that was written about her experience (link)
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Tom de Prey, Solicitor, London
I have two fully functional, niggle-free knees!!
I would recommend MAT to anyone...in fact, have done already.
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Amanda James, Yoga Teacher, London
Everything seems to be in full working order since we last met.
In fact, my right leg seems a lot stronger and there's less hip clicking and tightness in the groin.
I think we could be on to something!
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Ainsley Gibson, Director, Mindshare
For most of my adult life, I have experienced recurrent injuries and joint / muscle pain. Most recently, knee pain. Over the years, I have invested a fortune in trying to address these issues. I've visited doctors, physiotherapists and osteopaths. I had my gait analysed & even bought top of the range orthotics.
I approached MAT with scepticism, the theory made sense to me and from my very first session with Travis, I saw improvement. After a few sessions, my knee inflammation had gone down.
I would recommend Muscle Activation Techniques to anyone who has recurring injuries and lives with pain.
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Andre Compton, London
Weight loss of 5 stones in 7 months is only part of the story but is of course the headline stat that may catch future clients' attention.
Since meeting Michael and working with him, my overall fitness and more importantly, my understanding of how my body works, through nutrition, isometrics and muscle activation techniques have been a revelation. A 37 year old body that had endured years of sporting injuries, training and dietary mis-management has been revitalised and strengthened beyond all recognition.
Michael's professional approach which is essentially unfussy, simple and direct, has been the key factor behind these results. He stands alone in an industry that promises results but is thin on method and structure. If you are prepared to put in the physical (and mental!) graft, then make sure it is with Integra and no one else.
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Kelly D, Pilates Teacher, London
Some of the things Michael has got me to do (stopping all stretching for one!) were a little different from what I am used to, but the results speak for themselves.
I used to have little niggles in my knees, back, ankles, now I have none. My bodyfat has gone down, I definitely feel fitter and have more energy.
I would definitely recommend Michael.
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Pia Douwes, Actress / Singer / Dancer
Rui's greatest asset is that he works with you in an individual way. He checks how you function and puts together a customised workout.
I came to London with a lot of injuries and he helped me with these, strengthening my muscles and stamina along the way.
He is very 'in the moment' and wise in his choices of exercises. And just a joy to work with! The next time I am working in London, I will definitely be back!!
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Dermot Nally, London
After suffering arm and shoulder discomfort for some time that was not eased with regular trips to the physiotherapist I decided to try some Muscle Activation Technique from Travis Allan.
Obviously sceptical at first I have to admit that the overall improvement in my range of movement and flexibility has been amazing. The treatment has been a huge success and improved my ability to train harder making me feel much better in myself.
M.A.T. is not the most comfortable technique I have experienced, as the deep tissue work does sometimes push the pain limit but the outcome has definitely proved to be worth while. The new freedom of movement has been quite a revelation to me.
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Gary Steadman, Adecco, Borehamwood
After a cricketing injury, I could not do any form of activity for over a year. This meant that I piled on weight (3 Stone) and became incredibly unfit. I went to see Michael at Integra and within a very short time, I started becoming fitter and more importantly started losing weight! After my sessions had finished I had lost well over 2 stone and was fitter than I had ever been!
More importantly I started playing cricket again. I had the season of my life and even won the Wisden Cricketer Magazine: Player of the Year for 2006 - I attribute this to being far fitter thanks to Michael!
As a result, I came back for Winter 2006/7 training ready for this years cricket season - and as expected I am fit and ready to go. Michael has been a legend for me and although Michael worked very hard, the results spoke for themselves!
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Maria Kennedy, Accenture, London
I have been working with Michael for the past six months and really feel that his coaching has made a difference to my overall performance and motivation. He has worked on my posture and overall core strength which is making a noticeable difference especially as a reoccurring knee injury has now disappeared.
I would not have believed that my overall strength could be improved to the degree that it has. All that plus Michael's relaxed and easy going manner makes for an excellent session every week.
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Joyce Newman, Massage Therapist, London
A good manual therapist is hard to find.
I've tried many therapists being in the profession myself and find myself frustrated with the standards offered.
Michael provides a thoughtful and professional approach towards manual therapy combined with corrective exercises; giving the best immediate and long term results for your body.
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Lucy Dailey, D.C.
Whenever I am in London, I make a point to book as many MAT sessions with Michael as I can.
Since initially working with Michael, the back pains from constant air travel are less and it does give me a spring in my step.
We have worked on my sleep, eating habits and how these all link into my body - quite the holistic approach, which I love.
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Louise M, Lawyer, London
I have worked with various trainers over the past 3 years and can say that since working with Michael, my performance has improved, both in the gym, but also with my running, I just don't get injuries anymore...
Also, my weight is lower, I feel and look so much better and I am actually enjoying training! Michael knows when to push and when to just step back and leave me alone!
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Gene Cleckley, Fremantle, London
I had been going to the gym for many years in both New York and London. After using a personal trainer at one of London's 'leading' health clubs, I was becoming more and more disillusioned with the staff and my results. I came to Integra because I needed to take things to the next level.
The tailored and individualised service I have received has enabled me to maximise my time in the gym and achieve my goals quicker. Michael has advised me on every aspect of my training from my nutrition to rest and to my exercise (and squashing quite a few myths along the way). I really enjoy our sessions every week and I have never looked or felt better!
I am 40 and this is the first time in my life that I have a six-pack!
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Irene Dorner, London
Having trained with a variety of trainers over the last four years, I can unreservedly say that Michael is the best.
I trained there for several months before a job move from London. I can honestly say, that along with my osteopath, I miss it the most. Michael particularly helped me with my posture as well as helped provide me with physical (strength and cardio), nutritional and emotional advice.
Michael's knowledge of all things connected with the fitness profession is prodigious. Every session made me feel good which was of particular benefit to me. Although I've been a keen gym user for some time, Integra's training really made a difference. I now take a size smaller in trousers!
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Mark Nicholls, Trader, London
My body feels like it has moved in ways that it has never before, I am feeling muscles that I didn't know existed and my appetite has gone through the roof...
But I am feeling great, I don't get tired at work and I am loving the training.
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Patrick Meade, Consultant, New York City
I was recommended to Michael by an excellent massage therapist at www.triyoga.com who noticed that my posture was very much out of line. She convinced me that my regular gym and running activities would only continue to increase the damage.
I was both surprised and immediately appreciative at the end of the first session. Michael identified the extent of the problem and what would fix it. The exercises developed for me helped my back and neck feel so much better - they just felt so right! They weren't forced and were exactly what my body needed.
Since then, my posture has improved immensely and my neck and back pain have completely disappeared (not to mention that my body has improved muscle strength and tone). Integra is the best personal training service I've ever worked with and I recommend it whole-heartedly.
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Sheldon D, Director, London
Rui has shown an in-depth knowledge in the science and practise of physical fitness.
He is always prepared at our sessions and is very good at motivating me to push myself in my training sessions. It is clear to me that he creates a programme that is based on my own personal fitness goals. I do not hesitate recommending Rui.
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Tom Roberts, Partner, London
The trainers at Integra are obviously technicians who take the science of their work extremely seriously and it is a matter of pride for them that they get results.
I have trained with various trainers at clubs in New York and around London and nothing comes close to Integra.
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Paula Dewar, GB Athlete / Coach, Kent
In the time I have been working with Michael, quite major results have been achieved. He very quickly identified how my performance as a triathlete might be improved through specific conditioning.
This has been borne out recently as an osteopath who had previously assessed my movement with respect to running gait commented on how much my gait had improved. The areas she pointed out were the exact areas Michael had independently identified and addressed in my conditioning.
The work I do with Michael is challenging, but always enjoyable and the true measure of success has been in the results.
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Dan McNeil, London
I was a complete newcomer to the gym and made an appointment with Integra after being directed to the website by a friend. I felt at ease from the first session. The infectious enthusiasm displayed by Michael makes training never feel like a chore.
My overall goal is to improve my general fitness and, in the process, lose some body fat. During the first session, Michael listened carefully to me and tailored my programme accordingly. After only a relatively short time, I am already seeing results and I would heartily recommend it.
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GB, Fund Manager, London
Unlike most people, I'm not training to reach a specific objective; I just want to maintain a decent level of fitness and I know that training helps with my performance at work (I work long hours, in a demanding environment that requires a high level of concentration.
Working with Michael ensures that I know I won't get injured, his attention to my technique is key and it's good for my motivation as I don't need to deal with the usual gym and health club issues.
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A Carter, Film Editor, London
I have had recurring back injury which had caused me pain on and off over years, and so had been going to see a wonderful osteopath who had got be back on my feet each time I was injured. I had become used to having this recurring injury where my back was weak.
Using MAT, Michael quickly identified which muscles were not working and causing this problem in my back, and by reactivating these muscles combined with training me to start using them to strengthen them, my back-pain has disappeared and i have not had this injury again in the past year.
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Marla Brown, London / Los Angeles
After a year of training twice a week, I can confirm it has been worth it. I am able to keep setting that alarm clock and getting myself out of bed because of the personality and obvious expertise of the person that meets me in the gym and puts me through the paces - AND the results of course.
I have worked out on and off for most of my life in gyms on my own and with personal trainers. The biggest difference for me is that from the very first meeting, Michael listened to what I wanted to accomplish.
He has delivered workouts that steadily push me in that direction. The workouts are constantly changing which makes it easy to stay enthused and focused. Michael is very knowledgeable, takes a holistic approach and gives me the confidence that he knows what he is doing and knows what results to expect.
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Anna-May Santa Ana, RBS, London
I am not a gym person. I don't like to exercise. But it is something that I want to change. I have struggled with trainers in the past as they either made me feel small or incompetent when I didn't meet their expectations.
Michael works with me on the fitness goals that I want to achieve for myself and doesn't make me feel bad when I take the occasional step back. He helps me keep on track, even on those days when sitting on the sofa and having a chocolate brownie is a much better option.
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Renne Coutts, London
Rui's training is excellent and he is so considerate of my 'old' joints… I feel so much fitter. Thank you!
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Nicky Byrne, Westlife
Rui is a hard working guy, who I found amazing to work with. He is charming, funny and makes my hard workouts are really enjoyable. I found the results to my fitness enormous…I would strongly recommend training with him.
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Tom Coutts, London
Rui is a true professional who makes training hard work fun and worthwhile
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Mike R, Triathlete, London
just have to say...I am really enjoying the conditioning work with Michael and can definitely feel the benefit transferring over to my bike and run.
I now don't have the aches and pains I have been experiencing and my running performance in particular has really improved.
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Sam Milot, Music Producer, London
Over the years, I have tried diet and exercise with the aim of losing body fat. I also wanted to feel better and get fitter. Unfortunately, I've found the results from past training were opposite to what I was trying to achieve. I was left feeling tired after the exercises and never seemed to feel better. Plus, although I did lose a few pounds, the weight would creep back on soon after.
I decided to use the services of a personal trainer and was recommended to Integra by a friend. I have been extremely pleased by the amount of attention to detail that has been put into my exercise, nutrition and general lifestyle. The results have been excellent! I've actually achieved my goals faster than I thought. I would highly recommend Integra to anyone who is looking to lose weight and generally get fitter.
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Thomas G, Executive, London
I started personal training with Rui about a year ago. I had another PT in the past but it didn't compare to the service Rui is providing, which is truly excellent.
Rui also has expert knowledge of muscles and anatomy, which is extremely useful in the sessions. Some of the training has been specifically targeted at improving my fitness and ability to play tennis, which has given great results.
Rui is extremely pleasant to work with and very friendly, the sessions are always good fun and something to look forward to. I recommend him without any reservation.
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Juan Salazar, Finance Industry, London
I felt great! I like MAT!
I don't feel pain or discomfort and what's best is that it makes me aware of how my body works.
I also know it'll make it easier for me to concentrate on movement, when I'm training.
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Phillip R, London
I only see Michael once a month now, initially we did some MAT sessions close together and he worked through a lot of the niggles that I have had for years, but I already had a gym membership and I go running by myself so I just wanted some guidance in the gym and to make sure I didn't get injured while running, but I didn't want a huge commitment.
Michael puts together a training plan for me to follow and every month we check how my body is doing via the MAT work. I couldn't recommend him enough. Since starting I feel more confident in the gym, my running has got better and the constant niggles are gone.
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