A lecturer is using the appliance of science to improve the performance of people, from complete beginners to seasoned athletes in a new gym she has launched.
Helen Walker, an Associate Lecturer at the University of Greater Manchester, founded The Athlete Project to help people improve by using personally tailored programmes supported by science.
The Trafford-based performance gym specialises in evidence-led training, physiological testing, and long-term athlete development.
Helen is one of the UK’s first female strength and conditioning coaches in professional male sport (Image: Supplied)
Head coach and physiologist Helen, who lives in Darwen, said: “This is a new concept – The Athlete Project bridges the gap between elite-level sports science and everyday training.
“We offer hybrid strength, endurance, and conditioning programmes designed to improve performance, resilience, and body composition across all levels.
“It doesn’t matter whether you are a first-time gym member, or a competitive endurance athlete, following our programmes will provide results, backed by science.”
The Hyrox-affiliated gym, based in Trafford Park, has adopted a data-driven approach and offers advanced physiological testing which are used to individualise training and nutrition programmes, ensuring members train with purpose rather than guesswork.
Mum of two Helen, 40, has a strong background in applied sports science, metabolic testing, and sports performance.
Helen training at the gym (Image: Supplied)
She began her academic journey at the University of Greater Manchester, formerly the University of Bolton, where she completed her undergraduate degree in Sport and Exercise Science, Master’s in Strength and Conditioning and began her journey into physiological testing in the University’s sport science laboratories.
She is one of the UK’s first female strength and conditioning coaches in professional male sport, working with rugby league, football, and basketball teams.
Helen said: “I have always wanted to help people achieve their full potential. My knowledge and experience, combined with scientific data, has helped people understand their own bodies and I work with them to achieve the best results.”
“I have found that the best way to do that is through clarity, structure, and consistency -and help my clients train smarter, fuel better, and perform at their best.”
One member, Natalie Banks, said: “After falling out of routine with the gym and eating healthily, stressful job and trying to balance being a mum I needed something to give me the routine and structure to get back on track. Helen has given me exactly that.
The gym specialises in evidence-led training (Image: Supplied)
“My aim was always to lose weight (and still is) but it became so much more. I feel so much better mentally and physically which has ended up being the biggest win and the weight loss has been a bonus. Helen is always on hand whenever you need her, there has been no stupidly low calories or unrealistic goals set.
“I can’t wait to see my progress, I would highly recommend anyone joining!”
There are a variety of membership packages – to find out more, visit: https://theathleteprojectmcr.com
