A Sunderland-based fitness coach has expanded his business from one-to-one personal training into a social enterprise thanks to Sunderland BIC.

Team Dynamic Coaching CIC was founded by fitness coach Adam Smith to support people living with long-term injuries, chronic pain and reduced mobility.

After witnessing the difference tailored coaching could make, he began delivering community-based rehabilitation classes, creating an inclusive and supportive environment where people could improve their physical health, mental wellbeing, confidence and social connections.

Adam said: “When I first started my business, it was all about one-to-one coaching but I quickly realised so many people were coming to me with lower back pain, shoulder problems, knee injuries and mobility issues.

A Sunderland-based fitness coach has expanded his business from one-to-one personal training into a social enterprise thanks to Sunderland BIC.

placeholder image — A Sunderland-based fitness coach has expanded his business from one-to-one personal training into a social enterprise thanks to Sunderland BIC.

“We piloted some community rehabilitation classes and the impact was incredible.

"People who had been living with pain for years started moving better, feeling more confident and, just as importantly, building friendships.”

Originally established as a limited company in 2019, Adam turned the business into Team Dynamic Coaching CIC last year, allowing him to expand his community programmes and to access funding to support more people across the city.

Adam received support from the BIC through the Wear Together initiative, which helps local residents and community groups establish and grow social enterprises and co-operatives across Sunderland.

Adam said: “It was the BIC that helped us identify what the best move was. They gave us the stability and guidance we needed to make the transition into becoming a community interest company.

“I have the BIC to lean on whenever I need advice. You go into a meeting with questions and a bit of stress and you come out with clarity, confidence and a real sense that you’re heading in the right direction.”

Today, Team Dynamic Coaching CIC delivers mobility classes, rehabilitation programmes, one-to-one coaching and community initiatives for people of all backgrounds and abilities, with a particular focus on helping those living with chronic injuries, reduced mobility and long-term health conditions.

Ernest Dodds, business adviser at the BIC, said: “It’s been fantastic to support Adam as he’s built strong foundations for Team Dynamic Coaching CIC.

"His ambition, combined with a clear social purpose, puts the organisation in a great position to continue growing and reaching even more people.”