About

My Mission

My fitness journey began over a decade ago with the purchase of my first mountain bike. What started as a hobby soon grew into a lifelong passion. After years of training, racing, and exploring my limits of endurance, I’ve transformed my love for movement, training, and nutrition into a full-time career

Now, as a qualified personal trainer, I’m on a mission to share that passion with others so they can experience the life-changing benefits of fitness. My goal is to inspire, support, and guide people to become healthier, happier, and more confident in their everyday lives.

As a busy father and husband, I understand how challenging it can be to prioritise exercise and build consistent routines. That’s why I focus on practical, realistic training solutions that fit around real life - not the other way around.

With expertise spanning strength training, cardiovascular fitness, mobility, and many other areas, I offer personalised, evidence-based coaching designed to meet you where you are. Your goals become my goals, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.

A smiling man with dark hair and a beard wearing a red athletic shirt, standing with arms crossed next to the James Cornaby Fitness logo (ESTD 2025) featuring a kettlebell icon.

Before personal training…

My path into personal training hasn’t been conventional, but every step has shaped how I coach today.

After earning a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, I began my career at RAL Space, working on instruments for NASA and ESA missions, including the Solar Orbiter. I then moved to Dyson, contributing across engineering and software teams on a range of advanced technologies, including their electric vehicle project.

A digitally rendered image of the Sun with bright flames and fiery surface, surrounded by a glowing corona against a black space background with small stars.

Where it all began…

Over time, fitness, nutrition, and sports science became more than just interests - they started to take over my spare time. I was constantly reading, watching, learning, and experimenting.

As the tech world became more about online meetings and less about hands-on problem solving, I started to feel disconnected. After the birth of our second child - and already feeling the strain of burnout and anxiety - I knew I needed a change.

So I left Dyson and followed what had quietly become a calling. I retrained as a personal trainer and began a new chapter doing what I love: helping people build strength, move better, and feel good in themselves.

James Cornaby running in a Half Ironman triathlon near a lake on a sunny day, with other participants in the background.

My Philosophy

Your goals, your journey - I'm with you every step of the way

Every client is different, and so is their training. I personalise each session, programme, and piece of guidance to suit your goals, lifestyle, and needs.

Fitness for everyone - no matter your starting point, background, or ability, you belong here

Whether you’re new to training or have experience, I create a welcoming space where all abilities and backgrounds are supported and celebrated.

Precision through science - using evidence based methods to optimize your fitness journey

I use data, technology, and proven methods to enhance performance, track progress and deliver results tailored to your goals.

Fitness that’s enjoyable - focusing on fun, motivation, and lasting enjoyment

Fitness should be enjoyable, not a chore. I create sessions that keep you engaged, motivated, and having fun while working towards your goals.

Honesty and respect at the core - operating with integrity in everything I do

I lead with integrity, treating every client with respect and prioritising honest, transparent communication to support what’s best for you.

Stronger together - building a supportive and motivating community through exercise

Exercise is better when shared. Through group sessions, I create a space where everyone supports, motivates, and grows together.