SHEPHERDS' FITNESS

Gym Training Approach

At Shepherds Fitness, we don’t believe in random workouts.

Fitness classes in Dunmow Essex

Our 6-Week Training Blocks

How we train at Shepherds Fitness

We follow a structured, evidence-based system called 6-week block periodisation — designed to help you train smarter, progress safely, and achieve long-lasting results.

Every block has a clear purpose, a focus, and a progression plan so you always know why you’re doing what you’re doing.

Why 6 Weeks?

Six weeks is the perfect length for the body to adapt.

Across this period you’ll build strength, refine technique, and improve movement quality. After six weeks, we introduce new exercises and progressions to keep training fresh, exciting, and effective.

What you can expect in each block

1. Purposeful Progression

Throughout each six-week block, we progress your training through:

Increased reps

Increased load

Improved technique and execution

More challenging variations

This keeps your sessions structured, measurable, and focused on steady improvement.

2. Weekly Training Structure

Our timetable is designed around the High–Low Loading Model, meaning each day carries a specific training focus that balances intensity, strength work, conditioning, and recovery.

Every class on a given day follows the same theme — so whether you come at 6am or 6:30pm, you’re doing the same style of training.

Here’s how our week looks:

1-1 strength training in Takeley

Monday

Lower Body Strength (High Load)

All Monday classes focus on lower-body strength.

Heavier lifts, slower tempos, and foundational movements to build power and stability through the legs.

Tuesday

Circuit Training (Low Load)

A lighter, higher-volume conditioning session.

Expect circuits, movement variety, and a pace that gets your heart rate up without overloading the nervous system.

Personal strength and conditioning training in Dunmow

Wednesday

Total Body Strength (High Load)

Our second strength-focused day, using bigger compound lifts to develop whole-body strength, power, and technique.

Thursday

MetCon / Metabolic Conditioning (Low Load)

All Monday classes focus on lower-body strength.

Heavier lifts, slower tempos, and foundational movements to build power and stability through the legs.

Friday

Upper Body Strength (High Load)

A dedicated upper-body strength session targeting pushing and pulling patterns, shoulder stability, and upper-body power.

Fitness training in Dunmow Essex

Saturday

Primal Class (Mixed Load)

Our Saturday “Primal” class is all about fun, teamwork, and functional movement.

Expect a mix of conditioning, strength, and problem-solving challenges — a perfect way to finish the week.

The High–Low Loading Model

Using this approach, we balance intense strength days with lower-load conditioning days to allow the body (and central nervous system) to perform, recover and adapt without burning out.

High Load Days:

Monday, Wednesday & Friday

Low Load Days:

Tuesday & Thursday

Mixed Load:

Saturday

This system:

  • Reduces injury risk
  • Supports consistent progression
  • Improves performance
  • Helps you train frequently without fatigue building up
Personal training in Dunmow
Youth resistance training in Dunmow

Skill Development & Technique

Six weeks gives you enough time to truly master the movements we’re focusing on.

You’ll develop:

  • Better coordination
  • Stronger movement patterns
  • Safer lifting technique
  • More training confidence
When the next block begins, we progress movements or introduce new ones to keep you learning and developing.

Why Our System Works

Our 6-week blocks are built to help you:

Train consistently

Avoid plateaus

Stay motivated

Improve safely

Build strength, fitness & skill

Actually see & feel progress

It’s the same structure used in athletic training — adapted for everyone.

Ready to Get Started?

If you want structured programming, expert coaching, and a system that genuinely works, join us for a trial session.

Your fitness journey deserves a plan, not guesswork.
Start your 6-week block with us today.

Amazing January Deal

6 weeks for £60!

Unlimited classes
Unlimited open gym
Full body Hume Health Scan

Everything you need to kickstart your fitness in 2026