Get to know Jeff Archer

How did you get started in the business of fitness and wellness?
Originally when my father threw me in a swimming pool as a child. I soon realised that you never know when getting your body moving could save your life. Then again later when I worked in offices where all people talked about was diets, food and trying to get to the gym. I knew then I wanted to be able to help these people.

What do you love about your job?
The people I work with, the things they achieve and the fact that no two days have ever been the same.

What’s been the most rewarding moment of your career?
There have been many but one that really sticks in my mind is watching a group of 25 cynical stressed out male executive become converted to Yoga in 45-minutes. It was almost a religious experience.

What’s been your best result with an organisation or individual?
Seeing three people who had never run before cross the line at the end of the London Marathon was pretty special.

What’s the secret to balance in your life?
Running by the River Thames. Summer, winter; rain, shine or snow I can guarantee that I’ll feel better when I get back than I did when I left.

Healthy living is great — do you have any vices?
Donuts, coffee, American culture(?). I think perhaps I was a cop in NY in a past life.

What’s your favourite time of the day/week?
Early mornings, especially first thing on Saturday morning when the pressure’s off, the sun is shining and no-one else is around.

Favourite film
Braveheart because it lets me cling to my Scottish roots.

My music
Anything energetic enough to shake the windows in the car.

My books
Charles Dickens, Jasper Fforde and anything motivational.

How would you describe yourself?
Calm, focused, energetic.

Favourite food/drink
Most of the menu at the local gastropubs, and anything from Wagamama. For drinks you can’t beat a cold beer in the summer.

Favourite season
Spring — cool, sunshine and everything is new and full of potential.

Favourite saying/motto
The devil is in the detail.

Favourite holiday destination
Thailand/Malaysia. Anything in the East where the people are amazing.

Pet hates/what would you like to live without?
Traffic, people who procrastinate, baristas who get the morning coffee wrong.

What makes time fly for you?
Spending time with family or friends, running, driving, traveling of any description really.