About – SILVERBACK STRENGTH & FITNESS

Meet Your Coach – Experience. Integrity. Results.

I’m Mark, founder of Silverback Strength & Fitness. At 56, I know that true strength goes far beyond muscle — it’s discipline, wisdom, and resilience earned through years of challenge and growth.
With over three decades of experience in training and continuous education in exercise science and fitness coaching, I specialise in helping men and women of all ages — especially older adults — rebuild confidence, improve health, and transform their physiques through structured, sustainable training.

Strength, Wisdom, and Guidance

My philosophy is built on Strength, Wisdom, and Guidance:

Strength — physical, mental, and emotional resilience.
Wisdom — using evidence-based programming and real-world experience.
Guidance — personalised coaching that meets you exactly where you are.

This is backed up by being a qualified PT and Advanced Nutritionist, my love for the gym and Physical training stems from my days in Army, which gave me the hunger to push your mental and physical strength to the limits.

I carried this through my civilian life and enjoy the outdoors to the point of becoming a mountain expedition leader, enjoying great adventures of climbing some of the greatest mountains in Europe including many 4000m + mountains in the Italian, Swiss, German and Austrian Alps with some beautiful mountains ascended such as Mont Blanc, Matterhorn, Monta Rosa Massif amongst a few.

I have also completed the 3 peaks challenge numerous times with my favourite outdoor area being Snowdonia which I encourage my clients and lead them to participate in as part of their physical and mental welfare.

Expert Strength & Conditioning Coaching

Over 30 years of training experience and continuous education in exercise science. Mark has coached clients of all ages — from beginners to advanced athletes — using structured, periodised programmes proven to build lasting strength and resilience. His Army background instilled the discipline and physical conditioning that now defines his coaching approach.

Advanced Nutrition & Body Recomposition

As a qualified Advanced Nutritionist, Mark designs tailored diet plans that align with each client’s specific goals — whether it’s fat loss, muscle gain, or improved energy. His holistic understanding of training and nutrition ensures clients achieve sustainable results, not quick fixes.

Leadership, Mindset & Outdoor Performance

A seasoned mountain expedition leader, scuba instructor, and endurance athlete, Mark brings real-world resilience training into his coaching. His leadership from the Army to the Alps has shaped a mindset-first philosophy — helping clients build confidence, discipline, and mental toughness alongside physical strength.

It’s never too late—only you can start.

I’m a qualified BSAC Advanced Diver and instructor, as well as a PADI diver and technical diver—a passion I first developed in the Army and have continued ever since. I’m also a RYA/BSAC powerboat handler and instructor, which eventually led me to become a RYA-qualified sailor—another passion of mine. Beyond diving and sailing, I enjoy skiing, long-distance walks, marathons, and charitable challenges. The key takeaway is that it’s never too late to start your journey. You’re never too old—or too young—to take the first step. Whether it’s stepping into a gym for the first time at 50, aiming to lose the “Dad/Mom bod,” or getting summer-ready, every journey begins somewhere. And only you can make it happen.

OUR CLIENTS

SAY ABOUT US

Paul

Age 52

Mark’s knowledge and experience gave me the structure and confidence I needed. At 52, I’m the strongest I’ve ever been.”

David

Age 39

“I’ve trained on and off for years, but this programme helped me break through my plateau. Totally transformed.”

Lisa

Age 48

“The Silverback philosophy really resonated with me — strength of mind and body. Highly recommend!”