What Is Small Group Personal Training & How Does It Work?
When most people think of personal training, they picture one-to-one sessions: you and a coach working through a program together. But there’s another option that’s grown rapidly in popularity — Small Group Personal Training (SGPT).
If you’re looking for a balance between expert coaching, affordability, community, and support that extends far beyond the gym floor, SGPT could be exactly what you need.
What Exactly Is Small Group Personal Training?
Small Group Personal Training sits between one-to-one coaching and large group classes. Typically, groups are made up of 3–8 people, each following their own tailored program, but coached together in the same session.
This means you get:
Personalisation — Your program is still designed for your goals, fitness level, and any injuries/limitations.
Coaching — A professional coach watching your technique, adjusting your plan, and keeping you accountable.
Community — You’re training alongside others, which adds energy, motivation, and a sense of belonging.
From my own coaching experience in Bristol, this model works beautifully for people who want results and accountability, but also enjoy training in a social, encouraging environment.
How Does SGPT Actually Work?
Here’s what typically happens when you join an SGPT program:
Initial Consultation – You sit down with your coach to discuss your goals, current fitness, medical history, and lifestyle.
Individual Program Design – You’re given a training plan tailored to you — whether that’s fat loss, building strength, getting fit, or simply moving better.
Shared Coaching Sessions – You train alongside a small group. The coach moves between you, guiding, correcting, and pushing you as needed.
Progress Tracking – Regular check-ins ensure you’re progressing, not just repeating workouts.
This structure means you always know what you’re doing, you’re never lost in the gym, and you’re surrounded by people on a similar journey.
The Hidden Advantage: Support Outside the Gym
What makes SGPT stand out isn’t just the workouts — it’s the holistic support that comes with it.
In our Bristol facility, coaching extends far beyond exercise. Many of our clients come in thinking they “just need to train,” but soon realise lifestyle is just as important. With SGPT, you also get help in areas like:
Nutrition – Practical guidance on how to eat in a way that fits your goals, lifestyle, and preferences. No fad diets, just strategies that work in real life.
Lifestyle Habits – We work on sleep, daily movement, and routines that give you more energy and consistency.
Stress Management – Training helps manage stress, but we also coach you on recovery, mindfulness, and balance so you’re not burning out.
Accountability Beyond the Session – You don’t just train, then leave and forget about it. Coaches check in, keep you on track, and make sure your efforts carry over into the rest of your week.
This whole-person approach is where the magic happens. Exercise alone isn’t enough — it’s how you live outside the gym that determines your long-term results.
Why Choose Small Group Personal Training in Bristol?
From my perspective, SGPT works brilliantly in Bristol for a few reasons:
Affordability – You get 80–90% of the personalisation of one-to-one training, but at a fraction of the cost.
Community Feel – Bristol has a vibrant fitness culture, and SGPT taps into that sense of belonging. Many clients make new friends for life.
Long-Term Results – With coaching that covers training, nutrition, and lifestyle, clients don’t just “smash a 6-week challenge” — they build lasting habits.
Confidence in the Gym – Whether you’re a beginner or experienced lifter, having expert eyes on you removes the uncertainty of “am I doing this right?”
Final Thoughts
Small Group Personal Training is more than just a cost-effective way to work with a coach. It’s a system designed to help you thrive — in the gym and outside of it.
If you want personalised guidance, accountability, and support with nutrition, lifestyle, and stress — all while training in a friendly, motivating group — SGPT could be the perfect fit.
If you would like to book a free call with one of our coaches to find out more, BOOK A DISCOVERY CALL
Article written by: Danny Harris