Episodes

  • S3E2 – Vernon Lidstone – 82 Years Old, Powerlifting 200kg & Proof It's Never Too Late

    S3E2 – Vernon Lidstone – 82 Years Old, Powerlifting 200kg & Proof It's Never Too Late
    May 21 2026
    What happens when an 82-year-old retired prison chaplain decides to start strength training for the very first time?In this inspiring episode of Inspiring Movement, Jim sits down with Vernon Lidstone, who began his fitness journey at the age of 70 and is now competing in powerlifting competitions in his 80s.Recently, Vernon completed “The Chaplain’s Challenge”, lifting a combined total of 200kg at Crazy Strength Gym near Salisbury to help raise £40,000 for essential heating repairs at St Peter’s Church, Framilode. The church’s boiler had failed beyond repair, and the fundraising campaign aims to replace it with a cleaner, more energy-efficient air-source heat pump system.Even more remarkably, Vernon has since been informed by the South West Powerlifting Association that his performance set nine regional records across the Masters 3 and Masters 4 categories.But this conversation is about far more than weights.It’s about confidence, community, ageing well, resilience after grief, and why becoming stronger later in life can completely transform how you move through the world.Vernon shares how he went from community fitness classes in his church hall to stepping into a powerlifting gym surrounded by athletes decades younger than him. Along the way, he discovered not only physical strength, but a new sense of purpose and possibility.If you’ve ever thought “I’m too old to start”, this episode may change your mind.👉 Support Vernon’s fundraising challenge:St Peter’s Church JustGiving Page👉 Join Jim’s Gym:Jim’s GymIn this episode:How Vernon became a prison chaplain after the loss of his first wifeWhy he first became interested in strength training in his late 70sThe difference between being “fit” and being “strong” as we ageHow community exercise classes in a church led him into powerliftingWhat it feels like walking into a powerlifting gym at 82 years oldThe three lifts used in powerlifting competitions: squat, bench press and deadliftWhy fall prevention and strength matter so much for older adultsThe surprising confidence that comes from learning how to fall safelyHow Vernon raised money for St Peter’s Church through “The Chaplain’s Challenge”The story behind his 200kg fundraising lift at Crazy Strength GymSetting nine South West Powerlifting Association records in his 80sWhy strength training has changed the way he approaches everyday lifeThe social side of fitness, and why community matters just as much as exerciseVernon’s advice to anyone over 55 who feels it’s “too late” to startAbout Vernon LidstoneVernon Lidstone is an 82-year-old retired prison chaplain from Gloucestershire who began strength training at the age of 70. What started as community fitness classes in his local church eventually led him into competitive powerlifting.In 2026, Vernon completed “The Chaplain’s Challenge”, lifting a combined total of 200kg to help raise funds for essential repairs and heating upgrades at St Peter’s Church, Framilode.Following the competition, Vernon was informed that his lifts had set nine South West Powerlifting Association records across the Masters 3 and Masters 4 divisions.His story is a powerful reminder that it is never too late to become stronger.About The Chaplain’s Challenge – 200 for 200“The Chaplain’s Challenge – 200 for 200” was created to help raise £40,000 for St Peter’s Church, Framilode after the church’s oil-fired boiler failed beyond repair.The fundraising campaign aims to replace the heating system with a cleaner, more environmentally friendly air-source heat pump system to keep the church warm and sustainable for the future.Vernon invited 200 people or groups to donate £200 each, symbolising £1 for every kilogram lifted during his 200kg challenge.Supporters could also choose:Silver Donation: £100 (50p per kg lifted)Bronze Donation: £50 (25p per kg lifted)👉 Donate here:St Peter’s Church JustGiving PageUK taxpayers can also use Gift Aid to increase their donation by 25% at no extra cost.About Jim’s GymJim’s Gym is an online fitness and wellbeing membership for adults aged 55 and over. With 15+ live classes every week via Zoom, 800+ on-demand workout videos, and a warm, welcoming community, it’s everything a gym should be without any of the things that put people off.Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, Strength, Balance, Dance Fitness and more, all led by specialist instructors and accessible from home.Monthly membership from just £12.99. No contracts. Cancel anytime.👉 Join Jim’s Gym: www.jimsgym.fitness👉 Join the free Facebook community: Friends of Jim’s Gym🎧 Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.Inspiring Movement is produced by Jim’s Gym and hosted by James Hilton.
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    33 mins
  • S3E1 – Dietitian Ian Thomas - Eating Well After 60: Protein, Carbs and Practical Advice

    S3E1 – Dietitian Ian Thomas - Eating Well After 60: Protein, Carbs and Practical Advice
    May 8 2026

    What should you actually be eating as you get older? Not the latest trend. Not the stuff your friend read about online. The real, evidence-based answer from someone who genuinely knows.

    In this first episode of the new series of Inspiring Movement, Jim sits down with Ian Thomas, Jim's Gym's Resident Registered Dietitian, who leads the monthly Healthy Habits Club nutrition sessions for members. Ian's the kind of expert who tells you the truth even when it's less exciting than the headlines, and in this conversation, he delivers a masterclass in practical nutrition for older adults.

    They cover everything from why protein matters more as we age, to the truth about carbs and fats, to whether you really need that expensive superfood. If you've ever felt confused by conflicting nutrition advice, this episode cuts through the noise.

    👉 Become a Jim's Gym member and join Ian's monthly Healthy Habits Club sessions: www.jimsgym.fitness

    In this episode:

    • How Ian became a Registered Dietitian and what makes a dietitian different from a nutritionist
    • Why protein requirements increase as we get older, and what "anabolic resistance" means in plain English
    • How much protein you need per day, and the best sources, whether you eat meat or not
    • The truth about carbohydrates: Are they really the enemy?
    • Saturated vs unsaturated fat, and why it matters for how your cells function
    • Omega-3: why it's important, how much you need, and the best food sources
    • The set point theory of weight, and why losing weight gets harder over time
    • Why crash diets don't work long term, and what to focus on instead
    • The five foods Ian recommends eating every day
    • Ian's current favourite nutrition habit (hint: it involves cacao)

    About Ian Thomas
    Ian is a Registered Dietitian and a member of the Health and Care Professions Council. He studied at the University of Surrey and has a background in both clinical and community nutrition. Ian is Jim's Gym's Resident Dietitian, leading the monthly Healthy Habits Club nutrition sessions for members.

    About Jim's Gym
    Jim's Gym is an online fitness and wellbeing membership for adults aged 55 and over. With 15+ live classes every week via Zoom, 800+ on-demand workout videos, and a warm, welcoming community, it's everything a gym should be without any of the things that put people off. Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Tai Chi, Strength, Balance and more, all led by specialist instructors, all from home.

    Monthly membership from just £12.99. No joining fees. No contracts. Cancel anytime. 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.

    👉 Join Jim's Gym: www.jimsgym.fitness
    👉 Join the free Facebook community: Friends of Jim's Gym

    🎧 Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

    Jim's Gym Podcast: Inspiring Movement is produced by Jim's Gym and hosted by James Hilton.
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    49 mins
  • S2E5 – Julie Kent MBE, High Sheriff of Gloucestershire – Grief, Giving Back & Local Impact

    S2E5 – Julie Kent MBE, High Sheriff of Gloucestershire – Grief, Giving Back & Local Impact
    Jul 17 2025

    What does it mean to turn personal loss into lasting impact? In this episode of Inspiring Movement, Jim sits down with Julie Kent MBE, the High Sheriff of Gloucestershire, to talk about grief, purpose, and the power of giving back.

    Julie shares her journey — from music and education to launching Emily’s Gift and raising £500,000 for children’s mental health. They also chat about the High Sheriff role, local leadership, and why small, heartfelt actions can go a long way.

    👉 Learn more or support the High Sheriff’s Fund:
    https://gloucestershirecf.org.uk/high-sheriff-of-gloucestershire-appeal/

    In this episode:

    • What the High Sheriff actually does
    • How Julie turned loss into legacy
    • Fundraising, public service, and building local support
    • Why movement and connection matter at every stage of life

    🎧 Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
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    46 mins
  • S2E4 – Lay Lim, Pharmacist & Weight Management Specialist – Mounjaro, Ozempic, and the Role of Lifestyle in Weight Loss

    S2E4 – Lay Lim, Pharmacist & Weight Management Specialist – Mounjaro, Ozempic, and the Role of Lifestyle in Weight Loss
    Jun 26 2025

    You’ve probably seen the headlines: weight-loss jabs like Mounjaro are now being prescribed on the NHS. But what does that actually mean—and where does exercise still fit into the picture?

    In this episode of Inspiring Movement, Jim chats with Lay Lim, a pharmacist specialising in weight management, to unpack the facts behind the hype. They explore how medications like Mounjaro and Ozempic work, who they’re meant for, what the risks are, and why a healthy, balanced lifestyle still rules the day.

    This isn’t a sales pitch—it’s a grounded, practical conversation about a complex topic, designed to help you stay informed and in control of your choices.

    In this episode:

    • What Mounjaro and Ozempic do in the body
    • Who qualifies for NHS prescriptions (and who doesn’t)
    • The real risks of buying weight-loss meds online
    • Side effects, including muscle and bone loss
    • How movement and mindset shape long-term success
    • Why strength, nutrition, and community support matter more than ever

    If you’re considering a course of treatment with Mounjaro, speak to your GP or pharmacist first.

    Jim’s Gym is an online fitness community for people over 55 who want to stay active, connected and confident from home. With daily live classes, expert guidance, and a friendly, down-to-earth community, it’s built to help you move better, feel better, and enjoy life more—no matter your starting point.

    👉 Join the movement at www.jimsgym.fitness
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    42 mins
  • S2E3 – Nathalina Harrison, Confidence & ADHD Coach – Adult ADHD, Motivation and Moving Past the Stigma

    S2E3 – Nathalina Harrison, Confidence & ADHD Coach – Adult ADHD, Motivation and Moving Past the Stigma
    Jun 12 2025

    Ever feel like you're constantly losing your keys, struggling to get going, or running on "all or nothing" energy? This episode of Inspiring Movement takes a closer look at why that might be.

    Jim chats with Nathalina Harrison – a confidence and ADHD coach – about how ADHD shows up in adults, especially later in life. They unpack how dopamine affects motivation, what emotional dysregulation really feels like, and why routines, novelty and movement can make such a difference.

    Whether you’ve been officially diagnosed or are just starting to wonder, this episode offers real insights and practical advice to help you work with your brain, not against it.

    In this episode:

    • ADHD in adults: what it looks like and why it’s often missed
    • The role of dopamine in motivation and momentum
    • Stigma, masking, and late diagnosis in women
    • How exercise, novelty and structure can help regulate energy and mood
    • Why daily movement (even barefoot balance!) makes a real difference

    Useful links mentioned in the episode:

    • Inside Our Minds with Chris Packham (BBC iPlayer)
    • ADHD Coaching with Nathalina
    • ADHD Resources from Ayama Coaching
    • NHS Right to Choose – ADHD UK
    • Adult ADHD Self-Assessment Tool

    Jim’s Gym is an online fitness community for people over 55 who want to stay active, connected and confident from home. With daily live classes, expert guidance, and a friendly, down-to-earth community, it’s built to help you move better, feel better, and enjoy life more — no matter your starting point.
    👉 Join the movement at www.jimsgym.fitness
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    44 mins
  • S2E2 - Brett Jenkins, Wellbeing Development Manager - Purpose, Community & Movement in Later Life

    S2E2 - Brett Jenkins, Wellbeing Development Manager - Purpose, Community & Movement in Later Life
    May 29 2025

    In this episode of Inspiring Movement, I’m joined by Brett Jenkins, Wellbeing Development Manager at Anchor—the UK’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for older people.

    We explore what real wellbeing looks like in later life, from building a sense of purpose to embracing community and using tech to prevent falls.

    Brett shares how Anchor supports over 65,000 residents with personalised wellness assessments, monthly goal-setting, and their innovative Be Well 360 service.

    Whether you're supporting someone else or thinking about your own next chapter, there’s plenty to take away.

    https://www.anchor.org.uk/

    Want to stay active and independent from the comfort of home?
    Join hundreds of members over 55 getting stronger, moving better, and feeling great with daily online workouts at Jim’s Gym.
    Head to www.jimsgym.fitness to get started.
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    34 mins
  • Series 2 - Episode 1 - Dr Mark Porter MBE, GP & Medical Correspondent – Why Strength, Simplicity and Staying Active Matter More Than Ever

    Series 2 - Episode 1 - Dr Mark Porter MBE, GP & Medical Correspondent – Why Strength, Simplicity and Staying Active Matter More Than Ever
    May 15 2025

    Dr Mark Porter joins James to kick off Series 2 of the Inspiring Movement podcast.

    With nearly 40 years in the NHS and a long career in medical broadcasting, Mark talks candidly about what’s really holding people back from staying well as they age.

    They cover:

    • Why we lose strength faster than we think
    • What most people get wrong about exercise
    • The dangers of doing nothing
    • How to support people who aren’t motivated to move
    • What GPs wish they had more time to help with
    • Whether pills are the easy way out—and what to ask your doctor before taking them

    Mark doesn’t hold back. Expect straight-talking, practical advice with plenty of takeaways.
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    33 mins
  • S1E5 - Thomas Cledwyn, Managing Director - Infectious Generosity, Inspiring Kindness

    S1E5 - Thomas Cledwyn, Managing Director - Infectious Generosity, Inspiring Kindness
    May 21 2024

    Today, I am joined by Tom Cledwyn, the Managing Director of Infectious Generosity, a remarkable project and book by Chris Anderson, the founder of TED.

    Tom has built a career around the concept of kindness and has been part of many incredible stories, witnessing countless acts of wonderful generosity along the way.

    In this episode, we’ll delve into Tom’s journey and explore how acts of kindness can transform lives and communities. It's not just about movement today; it's about inspiring kindness and making a difference in what is often a mean world. Get ready to be inspired and uplifted by Tom’s incredible story and insights.

    You can purchase and find out more about Infectious Generosity here - https://www.infectiousgenerosity.org/

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    37 mins