Does this sound like you?
You want to feel better in your body, move without pain and know you’re actually doing the right things for your health.
At The Active Lifestyle, we change all of that for you.
How we get results
Everything is personalised to you — every single session. No guessing, no generic workouts. Just expert coaching in a private, motivating environment.
We focus on doing the basics right, consistently — because basics get results.
What you can expect
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Individualised programming based on your goals and movement
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Safe, joint-friendly technique coaching
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Clear progression so you can see and feel your progress
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A space where you can train without feeling judged
About The Active Lifestyle
The Active Lifestyle is a private personal training studio in Mt Eden, Auckland. Every training session is personalised to your needs and focused on carefully progressed, safe and productive training.
Sessions are available in 30-minute or 45-minute formats and are designed to give you maximum results in the minimum amount of time.
What we focus on
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Weighted resistance & strength training
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HIIT & cardiovascular conditioning
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Mobility and flexibility
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Pre-hab to reduce pain and support old injuries.
Prefer something more dynamic? Try Muay Thai pad work — a powerful, fun way to train, even as a complete beginner.
Training Options
Choose the style of training that best matches your goals, personality and budget.
Small Group Personal Training
Up to 3 people per session
Train with others in a fun, friendly atmosphere while still getting personalised coaching for your level.
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Great value and added motivation
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Sessions tailored to each person
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Matched by level where possible
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Strong focus on technique, safety & results
1–1 (or 2) Private Training
Just you (or you +1) and James
Maximum personal attention in a completely private studio — ideal if you want clear direction and efficient sessions
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Fully customised training programme
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Perfect for busy professionals
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In-depth coaching on form and movement
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Designed around your schedule and goals
Sports-Specific Training
Beginners to athletes
Improve performance, build power and reduce injury risk with strength and conditioning designed for your sport.
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Speed, strength, power & balance
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Pad work: punch, kick, knee & elbow
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Beginner friendly & athlete tested
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Experience with MMA, Muay Thai, football, rugby, kart racing & more
Meet Your Trainer: James
Body Transformation • Strength • Joint Mobility & Rehabilitation Specialist
James combines science-based training, years of lifting experience and a calm, supportive coaching style to help you build a stronger, more capable body.
Qualifications & Experience
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BSc Degree – Loughborough University (UK)
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International training experience: UK, South Africa, New Zealand & Kuwait
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Trained and fought Muay Thai in Thailand
Powerlifting Highlights
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Auckland Powerlifting Open Champion 2022 – 632.5kg total @ 92.4kg
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Represented New Zealand at Oceania Powerlifting Championships 2025 – 645kg total @ 102.9kg
Outside the gym: drum & bass, grime, martial arts, powerlifting and deep diving into strength training and health research.
Client Stories & Results
"One of the best you’ll ever go to. James and the team genuinely care about you and your fitness journey which is awesome. The best I’ve ever looked was a result of James and the Active Lifestyle crew. Highly recommended. Great atmosphere, cool people, and inclusive of all people at different stages of their journey. Awesome team."
– Aden Miles
"Great tempo when training. James knows how to pace the exercises just right. I have been feeling stronger and fitter every time without the usual aches and pains of injury. That is because he focuses on technique and once you get that right it's easy to push yourself. Active Lifestyle is a must try if you have hit the ceiling going to gyms and les mills classes."
– Arijit Lahiri
"James is an exceptional personal trainer. I highly recommend him to anyone looking to improve their mobility. I have personally witnessed significant progress in my physical fitness. Thank you, James, for all your support."
– Ash Gowlikar
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