How We Programme at The Fitness Collective: Smart, Sustainable Progress
- Michael Ford
- Jun 25
- 3 min read
At The Fitness Collective, the way we programme isn't just about writing workouts, it's about creating a unique fitness journey that's designed to support long-term development and structured progress. We want to ensure our members grow from where they are today to where they want to be: stronger, more confident, and more informed.
Our approach is grounded in science, built for real people, and designed to deliver sustainable results.
Let’s walk you through how we programme for results — and why it works.
The Big Picture: Your Yearly Training Roadmap
We start every programme with one question in mind:
“How do we want our members to feel and move a year into their fitness journey?”
More confident in and out of the gym
Moving better and lifting smarter
Stronger and more resilient
More educated about their body and training
This vision shapes everything we do. We work backwards from the end goal, building a clear 12-month roadmap. That’s why our year is broken into focused 6-week blocks, each one building on the last to keep our members progressing with purpose, consistency, and confidence.”

Block by Block: Structured to Adapt.
Each 6-week phase, known as a mesocycle, is a focused block of training designed to build week by week. We use a smart balance of structure and flexibility, following a linear progression that gradually increases intensity whilst keeping technique sharp and movement quality high.
But let's face it, life isn't always linear, and everyone’s journey is different. That's why we adapt as needed. Enter undulating periodisation: a flexible approach that allows us to adjust volume and intensity to suit each member, without losing any momentum.
Both models are backed by research, and we use them in a way that works for each individual member of The Fitness Collective.
Why the Order Matters.
We don’t just choose exercises at random — every block is intentional and backed by science.
We start with hypertrophy (muscle-building) phases to lay a solid foundation. More muscle mass gives you a better base, which leads to greater strength gains over time.
From there, we progress into strength blocks, beginning with higher volume and lower intensity to build movement quality and technical proficiency. This sets the stage for safe, effective heavy lifting down the line.
Throughout it all, technique and movement quality remain our top priorities before we ever ramp up intensity.
This evidence-based structure supports consistent progress, reduces the risk of burnout, and sets you up for long-term success.

Weekly Structure: Balanced and Bulletproof
Each week consists of 6 sessions that follow a full-body approach. The goal is balanced development, with a rotating focus to hit all movement patterns and manage fatigue. We use a tiered structure to guide each session from start to finish.
Here’s a quick look at how a typical session flows:
Session 1 (e.g. Monday):
Tier 1 – Main lift (e.g. Squat)
Tier 2 – Total body movement
Tier 3 – Upper body push
Tier 4 – Upper body pull
Tier 5 – Supporting lower body
Tier 6 – Core or cardio finisher
Session 2 (e.g. Wednesday) flips the focus and so on. It’s varied, purposeful, and keeps training fresh and effective whilst allowing for optimal recovery and progression.
Warm-Ups That Actually Work.
We don’t just 'warm up' - we prepare for performance. Each session starts with a RAMP protocol (Raise, Activate, Mobilise, Potentiate). A warm-up tailored to the session to prep your body for the main lift and enhance performance.
It’s specific, intentional and sets the tone for a quality session from minute one.
Coaching Meets Education
At The Fitness Collective, we firmly believe that coaching with education is supervision. We don't just tell you what to do, we show you why it matters. We want you to walk away with knowledge and results.
When you know how to train smarter and what you can be capable of, you’re in control of your journey, and that’s where true, sustainable progress grows.

In Summary. Why It Works
It's structured for year-round progress.
Adaptable to individual needs and the ebb and flow of life.
Backed by the latest strength and conditioning science and research.
Focused on confidence, technique, and, importantly, education.
Built to create results that last.
Whether you're brand new or a seasoned lifter, our programming meets you where you're at — and moves with you every step of the way. Grab a free taster session and come train with us.
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