WELCOME
From Dave Marshall ex-British Army
Physical Training Instructor

My name is Dave Marshall. I had the honour of serving in the British Army for twelve years, much of it as a Physical Training Instructor. Additional details about my army career can be read here but let me say that when it comes to ensuring physical standards are achieved I know my stuff. That is why Leading Military Fitness is Cheshire’s premier military fitness outfit.
The techniques I use at LMF are taken directly from my time as a PTI so you can be assured that the boot camp training you experience is authentic and effective. While I make no apology for how challenging the workouts are, I take care to tailor activities for each person’s level of fitness and ability. For that reason, all LMF participants are required to complete a health questionnaire before taking part.
I understand that committing yourself to regular physical exercise is a challenging prospect. If boot camps were easy, everyone would be fit. But they’re not. And only you can make it happen.
My commitments to you are that:
- I will be there, four times a week, come rain or shine
- I will motivate you the same successful way I have motivated thousands of soldiers in the British Army
- I will vary the programme appropriately to ensure it is always challenging and fun
- You will notice the difference
The rest is going to be up to you. And it begins with getting in touch. Your first session is free so there’s literally nothing to lose but everything to gain.
Take that step. Make it happen.
WHY LMF?

Time-served PTI professional
A good number of so-called ‘military fitness’ programs are run by ex-forces personnel who were not Physical Training Instructors. LMF is.

Demonstrable results
LMF prides itself on motivating its participants. We share the struggle, celebrate your milestones and track your progress.

Unbeatable teamwork
All LMF participants say how much they get out of the camaraderie at LMF sessions. This team ethos is celebrated at regular social events.

All weathers, eight times a week
Numerous studies prove the benefits of outdoor exercise over indoors. Whatever the Cheshire weather is doing, LMF is always active.
REAL PEOPLE. REAL PROGRESS.
Have been a part of LMF for over a year now, thoroughly enjoy it and feel fitter and healthier since joining. The community is very encouraging and the sessions are always different!
Raima Naweed
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Fantastic way to get fit and stay fit. Friendly, helpful, down to earth instructors. Inclusive friendly group. The big plus for me is the health benefits from exercising outside and the classes are never the same twice. Wouldn’t go anywhere else.
Jacqueline Purvis
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Each week is different, and every workout challenges every part of your body. The feeling after exercising, along with the camaraderie of the team, is a huge positive for the week.
Karen Lees
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There is a really welcoming feel from both instructors – who push you til you can do what you think you can’t – and the other participants, who are all levels and never make you feel like you can’t do it or don’t belong. Highly recommend!! Thanks Team LMF!
Cat Allen
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A great fitness class, a good group of people of all ages and fitness levels, and very motivational instructors. A variety of different class styles across the different parks, some bodyweight and some with kit. Always on, no matter how cold or wet, but you certainly feel the benefit afterwards!
Andrew Iveson
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I absolutely love LMF. I’ve been a member for about 6 months now and I feel so much fitter and stronger already. The group is really friendly and welcoming and you soon feel part of the family.
Sally Elson
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I have been a member for around 5 years. I did have to pluck up the courage the first time I went but no idea why as you are made to feel so welcome. The instructors Dave and Rich are brilliant and the classes are so varied so you don’t feel like you are doing the same thing week in week out.
Holly Parton
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Regardless of your fitness level, everyone is made very welcome and exercises are adapted to suit all ability levels. It is definitely hard work for an hour, but the camaraderie is brilliant and time flies by.
Clemency West
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Honestly, best thing I have done for both my physical and mental wellbeing for years. You get the camaraderie of a team sport and the support of excellent leaders to do that little bit more every time. Would recommend to any and everybody.
Nigel March
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For a more comprehensive review of the transformative impact LMF membership can have, please click here.
FAQ
Pre-Deployment BriefingAm I fit enough to join?
You don’t need to get fit before you come to LMF. That’s what we’re here for.
Every session includes beginner, intermediate and advanced options, and exercises can be adapted to your current level. You work at the level that challenges you, not the person next to you.
Your first session is free, so you’re losing nothing but an hour. And, as it has for some of our members, it just might change your life.
Will I fit in?
Yes. All abilities are welcome and nobody is judged for how they look, where they’re starting from or what they can currently do.
LMF is a supportive group with a proper sense of community. Members encourage each other during sessions, keep in touch outside them and regularly get together for meals, mountain days and other activities.
What happens at my first session?
Your instructor will meet you, check whether there are any injuries, medical conditions or medication they need to know about, and ask a few questions about your current fitness.
You’ll then be introduced to the group and shown how the session works. Every exercise will be explained, with easier or harder alternatives where needed.
Feeling nervous? Arrive around 20 minutes early and Dave will have a chat with you before everyone else gets started.
Am I going to get shouted at?
It is genuine military fitness, so you can expect military-style encouragement, discipline and banter.
You will never be shouted at for being new, being slower than someone else or struggling with an exercise. You’ll be encouraged, shown an alternative where needed and supported by the rest of the group.
The aim is to get the best out of you, not humiliate you.
Can I join if I have an injury or medical condition?
Complete the health questionnaire honestly and let the instructor know about anything that could affect your training.
Answering yes to a question does not automatically mean you cannot join. Dave will discuss it with you and may be able to adapt the session. In some cases, you may be asked to speak to a healthcare professional before taking part.
Where are the sessions held?
LMF runs outdoor fitness sessions at several locations across Cheshire.
Visit the Locations page to see the current sites, session times and directions.
How long am I committing for?
Membership runs monthly. There is no 12-month contract.
Your first session is free, so you can experience LMF for yourself before deciding whether to join.
How will I know if I'm getting fitter?
You’ll feel the difference.
You may find that you can complete more repetitions, run further, recover more quickly and tackle exercises that were difficult when you started. There is also an optional annual fitness test if you want a clear benchmark against your previous performance.
The competition is with yourself, not the person next to you.
Do you offer one-to-one training?
Yes. One-to-one personal training is available for members and non-members.
Speak to Dave about your goals, availability and current prices.
Can children take part?
Young people aged 14 and over may be able to attend when accompanied by a participating adult. Those aged 16 and over can train independently.
LMF sessions are designed for adults and include military-style banter and some strong language, so please speak to Dave before booking a younger participant.
Do you offer military or Blue Light discounts?
Yes. A 10% discount is available for former military personnel and Blue Light card holders.


