Sandra Milburn – Vet, Personal Trainer, Nutrition Coach, Behaviour Change Specialist

I spent 10 years in clinical small animal practice, before starting my diversification path. My first non-veterinary role was at a charity called Canine Partners where I was in charge of setting up an in-house breeding program as well as sourcing suitable puppies for the training program. A few years later, I started a non-clinical veterinary role with Cats Protection as the Education vet and stayed for 5 years. This was a very varied role and I learned countless skills, in editing, software use, script writing, copy writing, training material development, podcasting and more.

As a result of the Covid restrictions, my priorities changed and I followed my other passion (health and fitness), left CP and completely my online training as a personal trainer and nutrition coach with NASM.

I have been suffering with a persistent pain condition since 2016. This meant that I was unable to do any sports (even yoga was too painful) and meant I had to take a few years out from my favourites – running and triathlon. I realised quickly, how important physical health is for mental health (and vice versa). This was again highlighted during Covid and as I am now approaching ‘middle age’ myself, I am keen to play an active role in future-proofing my own health and wellbeing and want to help others, too.

I completed my Level 2 and 3 qualification online. This included attending online live lectures, submitting tasks and projects as well as submitting filmed sessions showing me coaching a ‘client’ (for once, my husband had to do as I said ;)) I love online learning and really enjoyed the anatomy and physiology side of things.

“Doubt kills more dreams that failure ever will”

I was able to fit all the studying around my work, so for me there were no barriers.

Being self-employed can be a two-edged sword. Not knowing where the next pay-check is coming from can be daunting, but as I have other income (properties) as well, this does take the pressure off a bit. I really enjoy being able to design my own working week. No day and no week are ever the same. I intentionally only do online work, as I want to be location independent. The downside of this is that I don’t see all that many people, so need to make a conscious effort to seek human interaction, especially on days when I don’t have client calls.

Despite every day being different, there are similarities. I am a morning person, so get up early, meditate and usually fit in some training. Other activities that are part of my days: answering client messages, posting on social media, creating new client resources, client calls, coaching sessions, reviewing processes and procedures, household chores, lunch, programming, research, further studying (there is always more to learn) and/ or catching up with my business mentor or other team members (I do consultancy work for another coach).

Someone who is interested in health and fitness, enjoys coaching and helping others and someone who wants to have a more flexible lifestyle (portfolio career).

Coming from the veterinary background, we are resourceful, excellent at learning and adapting as well as communicating and interacting with people. Motivational interviewing is a great tool and one that I wish I had learned about sooner. Imposter syndrome still does raise its head, but like anything in life – growth happens outside the comfort zone. So if this is something you want to explore – go for it. Always happy to chat if you have any questions.

1. Find a reputable course that suits your learning style (online vs face to face) to get qualified.

2. Consider working in a gym (private/ commercial) to gain experience, especially if planning on going into face to face coaching.

3. Get a mentor/ ask for help, it is the quickest way to make progress and learn.