Top personal trainer who started out in rusty van finally fulfills wish of opening his own gym

Darren Tyrie formerly worked in sales, but quit his job to pursue a career in fitness.

The 39-year-old began his new career at Washington Leisure Centre, working his way up in the industry and eventually becoming self-employed.

He started out travelling to people's homes, helping them get fit and overcoming health problems, and in 2016 he was nominated for Personal Trainer of The Year.

He said: “I have a deep passion for helping people get back in shape, overcoming health conditions and becoming more confident.

“I couldn't afford rent and travelled all over the North East to coach people in their homes. I literally sold my car to buy a handful of kettlebells, dumbbells and little rusty old van and worked around the clock training in hail, rain and sunshine.

“People just seem to love my enthusiasm and the results were fantastic.”

Darren was eventually able to open the Pinch-An-Inch Body transformation centre four years ago, and now has been able to expand and add a gym to his facilities, with the aim of helping residents keep fit physically and mentally.

The new gym gives Darren the opportunity to continue to grow his business and develop his passion of helping others.

The Pinch-An-Inch Body Transformation Centre and Gym can be found at Parsons Industrial Estate in Washington.