A Hamilton fitness instructor has been awarded Lanarkshire’s 'Personal Trainer of the Year'.
Kirstie Alba thanked her amazing clients for supporting her through a difficult 12 months as she picked up the gong last week.
Working out of her own studio at Bravehearts Boxing Gym, the 38-year-old has been motivating Hamilton locals for the past five years.
The highly thought of personal trainer has worked in the industry for 12 years under her reputable brand, Alba PT.
And after her award, Kirstie humbly said told how she was surprised to be nominated and couldn’t believe it when Prestige Awards came calling.
Kirstie told Lanarkshire Live : “I was pretty shocked.
"Obviously it’s been quite a bad year for all the personal trainers. With gyms closing there’s been a lot of adapting.
“I started online programming and coaching and making changes to work around the restrictions. But now I’ve got everybody back in and a full client base.
“It was a surprise to be honest, even just to be nominated first of all, but it was nice to feel appreciated."
A rigorous judging process saw the panel assess the work of Lanarkshire’s top gym professionals, their customer reviews, press reports and social media, as well as different fitness projects trainers are involved in.
Kirstie came up trumps because of her “personal touch” and “community feel” to all her work.
The Prestige team added: “You seem to go over and above for your clients.”
A prize ceremony will take place later this year where Kirstie will be commended in person for the prestigious award, which she paid tribute to her dedicated clients.
Kirstie added: “The last year has all been about motivating clients in a different way.
"It still has its challenges, but it’s been about adapting through more online channels and having regular contact - like we usually would through the studio.
“I’ve got a very varied client base so a lot of the new channels focussed around education and including everyone in coaching online and things like that.
"My clients have supported me all the way through, they’ve even dropped me stuff off at my house."
Owner of Bravehearts Boxing Gym Steven McMillan said the team were "super proud" of Kirstie on for being recognised for her efforts.
He added: "We pride ourselves on going above and beyond and helping people feel comfortable in our environment which Kirstie does and really looks after her clients.
"We see people who go to Kirstie grow and have amazing changes in months, and it's great to see for all of us here."
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