As students across Wolverhampton prepare to receive their exam results, personal trainer and entrepreneur Lauren Baines from Bridgnorth is encouraging young people to trust their instincts – and not be afraid to change course.

Now the founder of StrongHer Fitness, Get Strong Club, and Strong Mommas Club, 33-year-old Lauren didn’t always work in the fitness industry. After studying music at university and spending years building a career in recruitment, it was her lifelong love of movement and wellbeing that ultimately led her to leave the corporate world and pursue personal training full time.

“I enjoyed recruitment, but I never truly felt fulfilled,” says Lauren. “Fitness has always been a huge part of my life – from being a competitive gymnast growing up to training in the gym during my corporate years. I realised I was most energised when helping people move, feel strong and gain confidence.”

In 2019, Lauren took the leap. She retrained as a personal trainer and began coaching women one-on-one before launching her own fitness businesses. Today, she helps women improve their physical and mental strength – whether through her online communities, in-person classes or tailored programmes for mums balancing family life.

With UK Results Day around the corner, Lauren wants to remind students in Wolverhampton – and even their parents – that life is rarely a straight line.

“At 18, I thought I’d be a music teacher. At 25, I thought I’d be a recruiter forever. At 30, I was running my own fitness brand. There’s no deadline for figuring out what you love – just follow the things that make you feel most alive.”

Her advice to those considering an unconventional path? “Listen to your gut. If you feel pulled toward something, explore it. Skills are transferable. Passions evolve. And you’re never stuck.”

Whether it’s a pivot into personal training, a side-hustle turned full-time business, or simply giving yourself permission to explore, Lauren’s story is a timely reminder that results day is only one chapter in a much bigger story. 

Find out more about Lauren at laurenmayfitness.com