THE REST IS FITNESS

Episode 3: Body Composition, Bone Density & Training That Actually Works

In this episode of The Rest Is Fitness, Graham is joined by Sam, alongside Alex, for a practical conversation about body composition, CrossFit training, and what real progress actually looks like.

The episode breaks down common misconceptions around weight, body fat, and “getting fit,” and explains why the numbers on the scales rarely tell the full story. Sam shares insights into body composition, what it really means, how it’s measured, and why focusing on muscle, strength, and health markers matters more than chasing weight loss alone.

Alex and Graham also talk through current CrossFit workouts, explaining the purpose behind the programming and how different training elements work together to build strength, fitness, and resilience. This gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how training is structured to support long-term progress rather than short-term burnout.

Graham also shares his latest bone density results, opening an honest discussion about ageing well, the importance of strength training for bone health, and why resistance training is one of the most powerful tools we have for long-term independence.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

1. What body composition really means and why it matters
2. Why weight alone is a poor measure of health and progress
3. How CrossFit training improves strength, fitness, and resilience
4. The role of strength training in bone density and ageing well
5. Why tracking health markers can be more motivating than chasing scales

This episode is ideal for anyone who wants a smarter, calmer approach to fitness, one that prioritises health, strength, and longevity over quick fixes.

If you found this episode useful, share it with someone who’s focused on “losing weight” but might benefit from understanding what real progress looks like.

THE REST IS FITNESS – REAL STORIES

Episode: Liz Asser

In this episode of The Rest Is Fitness – Real Stories, Graham sits down with Liz Asser for an honest, relaxed conversation about her journey with training at CrossFit Shropshire.

Liz shares how and why she started, what life looked like before training, and the small but meaningful changes she’s noticed since committing to looking after her strength, health, and wellbeing. This is not a story about chasing fitness extremes, it’s about confidence, consistency, and finding joy in movement at a stage of life where many people feel fitness “isn’t for them anymore.”

Graham also reflects on how well Liz is doing, highlighting the progress she’s made both physically and mentally, and why her approach to training is such a great example of what sustainable fitness really looks like.

This episode is especially relevant for retired women or those approaching retirement who may be wondering whether strength training or CrossFit is right for them. Together, Graham and Liz talk through:

1. Why it’s never too late to start training
2. How strength training supports independence, balance, and confidence
3. The importance of community and coaching as we get older
4. Why CrossFit Shropshire is designed to support beginners at any age
5. How training can enhance daily life rather than feel intimidating

If you’re a retired lady, or someone thinking about becoming more active later in life, this conversation offers reassurance, encouragement, and practical insight into why starting now can make a huge difference.

Listen in for a real story, honest reflections, and a reminder that fitness is about living well, not pushing limits.

If this episode resonates, share it with a friend, family member, or anyone who thinks they’ve “left it too late” to start.

In this launch episode, Graham Carless introduces The Rest Is Fitness, a podcast built on a simple but often overlooked idea: fitness isn’t about punishment, it’s about preparation.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by extreme fitness advice, burnt out by doing too much, or confused about how training is meant to fit into real life, this episode sets the foundation for a calmer, more sustainable approach.

Graham shares why this podcast exists, what “The Rest Is Fitness” really means, and how strength, recovery, mindset, and consistency work together to build long-term health and confidence.

You’ll also get a full overview of the different episode formats you can expect, so you can choose what supports you most week to week.

Episode formats explained:

1. Shropshire Strong Quickcasts – short, practical 10-minute episodes with simple fitness, health, and happiness advice
2. Fighting Fit Quickcasts – BJJ, grappling, self-defence, and confidence-building concepts for real people
3. The Rest Is Fitness – Real Stories – honest conversations and journeys from real people
4. Coaching Notes – lessons and reflections from the gym floor
5. The Bits You Don’t See – behind-the-scenes stories, humour, and the human side of coaching and gym life

This podcast is for anyone who wants to train for life — not for extremes, trends, or short-term fixes.

Listen, take what you need, and leave the rest.

If this episode resonates, follow the podcast and share it with someone who could benefit from a calmer, more sustainable approach to fitness.

Welcome to The Rest Is Fitness.

Most people train to be good at one thing. They run, they lift, or they grind through cardio sessions and while that looks impressive, it often doesn’t translate well to real life.

In this episode of the Fitness, Health, Happiness Podcast, Graham Carless explains why being good at everything is far more valuable than specialising, especially if your goal is long-term fitness, health, and happiness.

Life doesn’t test your fitness in neat categories. It tests your ability to handle mixed demands — strength, stamina, coordination, and resilience — often all at the same time. This episode breaks down why general fitness beats specialisation and how hybrid training prepares you for the challenges you actually face.

1. Why specialist training often leads to imbalance, injury, and burnout
2. How real-life fitness tests are unpredictable and mixed
3. The difference between being “average” and being truly capable
4. What it really means to train like a generalist
5. The key elements of hybrid training for long-term health
6. Why general fitness matters more as life gets busier and more demanding

You don’t need to be elite at one thing. You need to be capable across many things.

Being strong, fit, and adaptable will always beat being fragile and specialised.

At CrossFit Shrewsbury, we focus on building balanced, real-world fitness through strength training, conditioning, and functional movement. Our coaching is designed to help everyday people become more capable, resilient, and confident, inside and outside the gym.

If you’re local to Shrewsbury and want training that supports your life instead of breaking you down, come and try a session with us.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now and share it with someone who’s stuck in the “I only do cardio” or “I only lift” mindset.

Most people wait for the “perfect time” to start training. But here’s the truth: that time never comes.

In this week’s episode of the Fitness, Health, Happiness Podcast, host Graham Carless from CrossFit Shropshire dives into the biggest myth in fitness: that you need to be fit before you start.

You’ll learn why readiness is a result, not a requirement, and how taking small, consistent actions builds the confidence and strength you’ve been waiting for.

✅ Why waiting to feel “ready” keeps you stuck.

✅ The science of momentum, how small actions lead to big results.

✅ How to overcome fear and self-doubt when starting the gym.

✅ Why CrossFit is perfect for beginners (everything is scalable).

✅ Real-life stories of Shrewsbury locals who started from zero and transformed their lives.

✅ A step-by-step approach to starting strong, even if you feel out of shape.

You don’t need to be ready to start.

You start, to become ready.

Every strong, confident person you see in the gym once stood where you are now: nervous, uncertain, but willing to try.

That willingness is all you need.

At CrossFit Shropshire, we help real people get fit, healthy, and happy, no matter their starting point.

Our workouts are coached, scalable, and community-driven, designed to help you build strength, confidence, and resilience for life.

We’re based just outside Shrewsbury, in a welcoming space where beginners are supported every step of the way.

If you’re in or near Shrewsbury and you’re ready to start your fitness journey, even if you don’t feel ready, come and visit us at CrossFit Shrewsbury.

This week we’ve got a very special guest… Tim 🙌 A member of CrossFit Shropshire for 7 years. His journey is nothing short of inspiring.

From feeling unfit, to becoming an ultra runner, to now being a consistent and capable fit dad – Tim has truly transformed his life. And it doesn’t stop there. His dedication inspired his daughter, who now trains daily in London! 💪

In this episode, Tim shares his top tips for busy dads who want to balance family, work, and fitness without burning out. It’s short, sharp, under 10 minutes – perfect to listen to while making your morning coffee ☕.

Comment Info and I’ll DM you the link so you can hear Tim’s story and his advice first-hand.

#CrossFitShropshire #FitAndHappy #StrongerTogether #ShrewsburyFitness #BusyParentFitness

In this episode of Shropshire Strong, we explore why most people feel stuck when it comes to fitness. For many, results take too long or the process feels like too much effort. That is exactly why so many people quit or burn out before they ever see the changes they want. At CrossFit Shropshire, we have built a system that helps members get results faster and with less sacrifice, so that training fits into real life.

I talk about how coached sessions, regular goal reviews, and measurable progress create quick wins that keep motivation high. I also explain how we remove the barriers that make fitness feel overwhelming, such as offering flexible training times, simple nutrition coaching, and a strong community that keeps you accountable without relying on willpower.

You will also hear real stories from members who discovered that training does not have to drain them. Instead, it can fuel their day and give them the strength and energy to enjoy life more fully.

If your current routine feels like it is taking forever or costing you too much energy, this episode will give you a better way forward.

Special offer for podcast listeners: Message INFO on any of our posts and you can book a free 60 minute goal planning session. Together we will map out how you can start making faster progress with less effort.

Starting strength training can feel intimidating, but you don’t need to be strong to begin. In this episode of the Fitness, Health, Happiness Podcast, Graham Carless breaks down how complete beginners can go from zero to strong with simple, practical steps.

You’ll learn why strength training is one of the best investments in your long-term health, how to start safely, and the benefits that go far beyond building muscle. This isn’t about bodybuilding or chasing a six-pack, it’s about feeling confident, moving better, and living stronger.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Why strength training is for everyone, no matter your age or starting point

• The key benefits: stronger bones, better posture, more energy, and improved mental health

• How to start with simple, natural movements before lifting heavy

• The principle of progressive overload and how to apply it

• Common mistakes beginners make and how to avoid them

• The real-life benefits you’ll notice outside the gym

If you’re in Shrewsbury and want to start strength training with the right guidance, CrossFit Shropshire is here to help. We specialise in supporting beginners and building confidence through coaching and community.

Listen now and take your first step toward building lasting strength.

For more info visit www.crossfitshropshire.com