There’s no long-term contract to start. The 30-Day Onboarding is a one-time gateway, not a free trial. After that, we work on a rolling membership with a clear notice period.

I have injuries / health issues – can I still join?

In most cases, yes. We’ll discuss your history in your onboarding and, if needed, liaise with your other health professionals so we can coach you safely.

I feel nervous about gyms – will I fit in?

PLW was built for people who don’t like typical gyms. Sessions are small, the environment is welcoming, and we’ll introduce you gradually so you never feel thrown in at the deep end.

Where are you located and is there parking?

We’re based in West Park, Darlington, with convenient free parking nearby. Full directions will be sent when you book your first visit.

What happens after the 30-Day Onboarding?

If we’re both confident it’s a good fit, you can move into Group Coaching or Private Coaching. If it’s not the right time, we’ll part ways on good terms.

We don’t sell fitness.
We create transformation.

A private coaching studio in West Park, Darlington, for people who want to feel stronger, calmer and more confident in their own skin – without the intimidation of a typical gym.

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What Is PLW?

This isn’t a gym. It’s PLW.

PLW Fitness is a boutique coaching studio in West Park, Darlington.

We specialise in helping busy, everyday people build strength, lose weight, manage stress and feel at home in their own body – without turning their life upside down.

At PLW you get

Coaching, not just classes – every session is led, coached and adapted for you.

A safe, non-intimidating environment – no mirrors, no muscle-posing contest, no egos.

Real human support – we care about what’s going on in your life, not just your reps.

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Real people. Real lives changed.

See what our clients say about us...

Ross

Im seeing improvements in my strength, Fitness and overall confidence!

Lesley

Theres nothing that Paul wont do for you!

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Caroline

Great interaction with like-minded people who are all on the same journey.

BUILD.

Get stronger, move better, and train with purpose in our coached BUILD sessions, tailored to your goals in a supportive small group.

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BOX.

Unleash your power with high-energy BOX sessions that build speed, stamina, and confidence — no contact, all impact.

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BURN.

Turn up the intensity with cardio-driven workouts designed to push endurance, burn calories, and elevate your fitness.

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STRETCH.

Let go, unwind, and move better with our restorative STRETCH sessions that improve flexibility, strength, and ease.

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Counselling-Informed Coaching

More than reps and sets. We coach the human, not just the body.

Founder Paul Woodhouse is a qualified counsellor as well as a coach.

Jan, our Pilates & Restore specialist, is also a trained therapist.

That doesn’t mean PLW is a therapy clinic – but it does mean:

We understand stress, burnout and overwhelm.
We recognise self-sabotage, all-or-nothing thinking and people-pleasing.
We know that motivation, confidence and identity are just as important as squats and presses.

Our coaching is therapeutically informed – so when life gets heavy, you’re not told to “just push harder”. We help you find a way that’s kind, realistic and sustainable.

Meet The Team

How PLW Works

Your journey with us:

1. Start with the 30 Day Onboarding
We get to know you, your body, your goals and your lifestyle. No contracts, no pressure – just a structured month to see if PLW is your long-term home.

2. Choose your path: Group or Private Coaching

Small Group Coaching (Build, Burn, Box, Restore, Pilates, Balance, Move)
Private Coaching for those wanting a more bespoke, executive or therapeutic-informed approach.

3. Stay supported, not left alone
Ongoing check-ins, accountability, progress reviews and adjustments to keep you moving forward.

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