Hammer Fitness NI

Fantastic experience: Having tried to start exercising again to few times over the last couple of years, a friend recommended Mick. He has transformed my fitness and strength. He has an uncanny ability to judge how hard I can work, and encourage me to that point, then stop me before I overdo it. I am enjoying exercising again. I can't recommend him highly enough! Arrange a taster session with him, you will not regret it! Having just come back from skiing I found that I could easily pole where required, and now have the flexibility to skate thanks to improved hip movement. Life has been easier when the body gets regular use. I highly recommend both the exercise and Mick to guide and encourage you.

Fantastic experience: Been working directly with Mick now 1-1 for nearly 10 weeks. I came to Hammer Fitness specifically to work on boxing but I’ve received a TON more from Mick. My cardio is up, strength is up , and my power feels up. I’ve learned a ton about boxing, and each and every week he’s been unreal at setting up new challenges, breaking new pathways in, and getting ultra creative on learning. The same happens with boxing, as it does fitness, and strength. Plus the ability to work on this 1-1 with a transformation coach watching each element is priceless. You’ll leave a red-faced mess. I always do. But the transformation week to week is beyond worth it. Reach out to him and grab a free lesson just to feel it out, experience someone deep diving into making you better, and someone who’s willing to challenge you in all directions

Fantastic experience: I had fully intended to ‘start exercising’ probably years ago but never quite got around to it. A physical job kept me fit and strong in my twenties and thirties but alas I was finding the next decade much tougher to attain any decent degree of either! Eventually I bit the bullet and gave Mick a call, knowing I would require help, support and a good shove in the right direction. It was tough at the start as I could barely manage a lonely sit up! Throughout the 10 week block of training twice per week Mick managed to get me to a point where I fully enjoyed and looked forward to the work outs and I was able to complete the list of 10 blasters in one session. This seemed like an impossibility at the start. Every session was tailored to what I could manage plus a little bit more - I could feel an improvement in my fitness every week. Mick exudes positivity and an enviable enthusiasm and drive which is a profound motivator. I feel rejuvenated and am continuing to work with Mick ongoing

Fantastic experience: I sought out Mick after hitting a plateau in my weight loss journey. I had managed to lose a substantial amount of weight without ever having stepped foot in a gym - I viewed gyms as an intimidating places and not somewhere someone "like me" belonged. I felt that a personal trainer in a private gym to help guide me without the fear of being judged by others was the ideal starting point of my gym experience. I am also registered disabled with a range of mobility issues, so I knew I would need a true professional with knowledge, expertise and patience. After a lot of research and not finding anyone I was more drawn to than Mick, I decided to be brave and take the plunge - and I'm so thrilled I did. Mick has transformed something that I previously saw as daunting, intimidating and outside of my capabilities into the best parts of my week. I look forward to each session as he makes them fun, engaging and I always leave feeling amazing with a real sense of accomplishment. Mick has gone above and beyond to understand, modify and tailor training to my physical capabilities. Throughout this process it has been at the forefront of his mind and how he can help me achieve my goals in the safest way. After having spent years tracking calories and obsessing over the number on a scale, he has changed my outlook into one that is much healthier. I came in with a stagnant view of solely wanting to reach that number on the scale, to now focusing on progression and how much stronger my body feels... obviously the physical changes that are happening are a huge bonus too! Mick has given me the confidence to believe that I can. I invested in myself, and Mick has made me see that I am worth that investment. On a side note, it's also pretty cool telling people I'm being trained by an ex-Marine and boxing champion.

Fantastic experience: I have been training with Mick for over a year now, averaging around 6 workouts per month. As someone in their mid-fifties, carrying excess weight and well out of condition due to no regular exercise for at least 5 years, I was unsure about what to expect or if my body would cope! However, due to Mick's expertise, professionalism and extensive knowledge not only have I made significant gains in aerobic fitness, strength, muscle mass and flexibility, but remarkably I have remained entirely injury free (all my previous attempts to get back into exercise ended with injury). Even more remarkably, lots of niggly pains including long standing shoulder and back pain - which I had attributed to increasing age - disappeared completely. Mick always ensures I stretch and warm up properly (something I always omitted) before embarking on the workout. The workouts are challenging but enjoyable and Mick mixes them up so that they never get boring. He seems to know when to get me to push the limits and to increase the demand of the workouts or when I need to ease back a little. The other great side effect of the training has been the improvement in the quality of sleep I experience. I have thoroughly enjoyed my last year training with Mick and I have made progress that a year ago I would not have thought possible. It should also be noted that Mick is very friendly, frequently funny and almost completely crazy and I hope to keep training with him for many more years. I cannot recommend Mick highly enough and would encourage anyone considering going to a personal trainer to give this gentleman a try - you won't regret it!

Fantastic experience: I have come back recently to Mick after a 2 year break. Always a brilliant workout session, works to your level and challenges you to do better at each visit. Has an array of equipment to use and always encourages you to give your best. I have seen a difference in my physical ability in the few sessions I have had and always look forward to going. Also plays very good music to rock out to while you work up a sweat. Would recommend Hammer Fitness NI if you want a workout tailored to your needs and you want to see results.

Fantastic experience: I have been training with Mick for a number of sessions now and It's easily the best training I've ever received. The energy during sessions is great and Mick always comes across as invested in my growth, truly pushing me to be my best self, both in body and mindset, pushing for as many reps as I can do and not letting me make excuses, which I've really appreciated. Mick has even gone out of his way to offer techniques, knowledge and activities that can be implemented into life outside of sessions to better both mental and physical health, such as Wim Hoff breathing or a hiking trail he himself uses and invited me to join him on, all of which I have found to be effective for me and am grateful for. The knowledge Mick offers is in depth and includes the body science behind how to increase your fitness, the mechanics of which he will explain to you as you progress through the session, nutritional strategies to increase your energy levels/overall health, and more, plus he has answered any questions I've had. Mick not only talks the talk but walks the walk as well, with a proven background in fitness and discipline through his time in the military and as a boxer, and it's always insightful and interesting to hear tales of these times. Even now Mick trains extremely hard and is more than capable of doing himself anything he'll ask of you. Training with Mick has greatly improved my strength and fitness, such as going from a 1 minute weightless plank to a 2 minute 20kg weighted plank, but equally as important if not more is what the sessions do for my mental and mindset, helping to restore my confidence; Hammer Fitness' motto is "don't think you can, know you can", which is an important way of thinking that Mick will help instill into you or remind you to live by, that can be carried over into all aspects of your life even outside of fitness. So for all these reasons and more I would highly recommend Mick as a trainer.

Fantastic experience: I started training with Mick a few months ago as I had signed up for a marathon. I am not a runner and knew I needed some guidance and motivation to get out training. Mick has been great in building up my leg strength on gym days and making runs pleasant with varying trails for running in beautiful places like Castlewellan forest, Tollymore forest, The Granite Trail and Murlough nature reserve and beach. My running distance has rapidly increased with some steady training and some undulating trails. I'm enjoying running to my surprise! and Mick always makes it fun and varied. I couldn't recommend him more

Fantastic experience: I would recommend Mick at Hammer fitness because; he listens to requirements, eg from physio, delivers bespoke training sessions suited for me- pushing fitness but avoiding injury. Good variety in the programs yet consistently building cardio and strength. After 6 weeks of "good solid sessions", my weaknesses are addressed and I am stronger overall and more confident going forward.

Fantastic experience: Very personalised training sessions. Great we were able to go as a couple. Mick even made our own personal playlist to play during our sessions - nice touch! Starting to really see the benefit of our sessions.

Fantastic experience: Great PT , adapts to your fitness level. The difference in my strength and ability in a few short weeks has been brilliant. Definitely recommend

Fantastic experience: I had got out of the habit of training and needed a committed instructor who could get me back on track. I am now 8 sessions in to a 12 session block and am seeing improvements in flexibility and strength which were my main objectives. Mick gets the balance just right in terms of pushing you hard at each session without going over the top. Uses a good variety of exercises and weights to meet targets.

Fantastic experience: Mike is a fantastic trainer with a great sense of humour. Every session is filled with laughs and positive attitude which encourage you to push harder. Very professional coaching and although I have only been training with Mick for the past month I can already see significant improvement in my fitness,. Would highly recommend anyone to give his bootcamps or PT sessions a go, you won't be disappointed.

Fantastic experience: I have been with Hammer Fitness for 6 weeks, and would definitely recommend Mick, if you are looking to get fit and see results. Mick is always encouraging you to push that bit extra at each session. Each class he adds something different to the mix. I have seen my fitness levels and strength increase week on week. If you want to get fit and enjoy some craic along the way, give Mick a shout, and see the results for yourself.View less

Fantastic experience: Mick has trained me for a few months now, and with just one session a week I've lost weight, and feel much fitter, and really enjoy exercising. His style is perfect for a coach: he mixes up each workout so they are never boring, and he is able to get you to push yourself without being pushy! I thoroughly recommend Mick!

Fantastic experience: Have been attending hammer fitness NI for 4 weeks and cannot believe the improvement in my overall strength and fitness. I have been to other personal trainers before but have not had the results I am getting with Hammer Fitness NI. Would definitely recommend.

Fantastic experience: Absolutely love my sessions with Mick! I was never a massive fan of exercise and always found it a bit of a chore, this has totally changed now and I really look forward to my twice weekly sessions. Mick is always asking for feedback regarding exercises which you enjoy and ones you don’t, and constantly changing up routine so things never get boring!

Fantastic experience: Training with Mick has been great. He knows just how far to push and I have achieved more than I thought I could. Can't wait for the next session!

Fantastic experience: I would never have started this as circuits always put me off and I figured you needed more upper body strength. since lockdown began in March I put on over a stone. Not one for dieting my boyfriend told me to join his circuit class in the living room. Mick was amazing giving me easier ways to complete the tasks. Before long I was excited for circuits and the fact that I can do it from my living room without people staring at me was lovely. From the middle of April I have been doing at least one class a week and have gone from being able to hold a plank for 10 seconds to now holding for 60. I could never do press-ups and can now do 20 in 60s. Finally my work clothes that didn't fit at the beginning of June are now loose on me. Can't think of anywhere I'd rather be on a Tuesday evening at 6 than in my living room jumping around like an eejeit with Mick spurring me on. Big thanks and looking forward to 2021

Fantastic experience: Don't be put off by the name. Mick is a gentleman and will make you fitter and stronger. You will sweat and possibly cry but great fun. I've lost over a stone in a month amd couldnt recommend Hammer Fitness highly enough. Colin

Fantastic experience: Nearing 40 and my sedentary lifestyle was taking over, i was slipping into old bad student habits. I recently decided to change and make badly needed lifestyle changes. Enter Mick! I been training with Mick for just over 6 weeks and have notice a number of positive body changes...already! Not only that, my friends and family have too. Two sessions a week, and with correct diet advice from Mick, I have been able to make those changes needed for a better lifestyle. I don't like working out but sessions with Mick are both structured, well focused and fun. They do always make me feel better. Mick doesn't let me talk too much as it deflects attention from me, clever man! Mick always arrives on time at my home with his mobile gym, including music. Ever enthusiastic and bouncing with energy, he frequently gets involved which I find a great motivational tool. In the 6weeks with Mick I feel slimmer, stronger and, with those all important dietary changes, healthier too. I'm so happy with things I'm looking to do 3 sessions a week. Money very well spent investing in my health. Edit: 04:10:20 I have been training with Mick for a few years with in person PT session. That changed during Covid-19 lock down, where we moved to live stream Zoom classes. I was expecting these classes to be less of an experience and not as intense. This has not been the case They are as difficult and annoying to get through as in person session. Still good fun with lots of needed banter.

Fantastic experience: I have found that Hammer Fitness N.I is a fun and effective way to get fit, the sessions are laid back and progressive. I use it as an alternative to joining a gym that I know I would never go to. I have seen some serious improvements in my core strength and overall fitness, through attending the circuits sessions. Everyone I have met through Hammer Fitness is good craic and welcoming. The classes are for all abilities and fitness levels as workouts are adjusted to suit the person, especially useful if you have any existing injuries. I wouldn't be as active or as fit as I am if it was not for Hammer Fitness, thoroughly recommended.

Fantastic experience: Have worked with Mick through his bootcamp and Boxanity classes for 3 years now.. Simply the best. I am a more, mature lady and, have never felt fitter and healthier and, can safely say Mick contributed to this through exercise plans and nutrition advice. Thanks Mick

Fantastic experience: What I love about coach Mick is that he can work with anyone and anything. I don’t have the best equipment there is but he can always create a way to make it one. His sessions are fun because they are always different. This makes me looking forward to our next session every time to see what’s gonna happen. I love how passionate and enthusiastic he is and how it reflects on me. He knows how to push your limits to do better and keep improving yourself. I definitely recommend Hammer Fitness NI to everyone.

Fantastic experience: Taking a few moments to give my review on Hammer Fitness NI and Mick O’Connell. Having been involved in various sports over the years recreationally, like boxing, running and Muay Thai as well as trying different methods of high intensity interval and cardio gym work, I kind of know exactly what I am looking for when it comes to personal training and advice moving to a new area. If you are in a position where you can take on board a personal trainer to some degree, the benefits reach far and beyond a bit of personalised professional advice and 200 extra calories burned in a session. Sourcing the right external help to get you to that next level that most people usually don’t achieve is what a great personal trainer can do. Scrap the pretence and the excuses, Mick is not a gym queen that’s done a couple of advanced courses in physical training. He is an athlete of the absolute highest degree with a decorated track record to prove it. An intelligent, enthusiastic, instinctive approach to a new client / regime. I have had half a dozen personal trainers over the years, all were good and served a purpose but Mick, without a doubt, is the only one that activates the level of self belief coupled with a practical solution based training program that guarantees results. For me, I was looking for boxing and weight loss but broadly speaking he understands the entire fitness landscape like no other. My recommendation is that anyone who does any exercise to give Mick a go just once, because even through one 60 minute session, some of the skills tips and techniques taught can really resonate and have a profound and long lasting impact on your usually routine. Unquestionably the best personal trainer on the emerald island

Fantastic experience: I thought I was in decent shape with my first session with Hammer Fitness. Mick proved me wrong. He was able to create sessions that pushed me and that's what I needed. There's a variety exercises in each session too, so my muscles were forced to react and adapt which is important. Just the right amount of intensity to improve my strength and stamina. I had never done tyre flips before but now I have a love-hate relationship with them. It doesn't matter if you are a beginner or advanced. Mick can scale up your current level so that you see results.

Fantastic experience: I have been using Hammer Fitness for about 6 months now. During that time I have lost weight and have gained fitness and am able to do more each session both of which were my goals. I have a chronic injury and Mick is happy to change the session to suit my needs and how my injury feels whilst still pushing me to my potential. Having the ability to train in different locations is helpful as some nights it suits me to go to him and others it suits me for him to come to me. I would recommend using Hammer Fitness if you have fitness goals that you want to meet, just be willing to work as Mick pushes you to meet them.

Fantastic experience: Cannot recommend Hammer Fitness NI highly enough. I have recently used the Golden Fix Plan online package and it's been fantastic! Real results and so easy to follow. Even when you require some small pieces of equipment it's still really reasonable and worth it! It's a total body workout leaving you feeling fitter and stronger than ever. Thank you Mick! Definitely 5 star+++++ rating!

Fantastic experience: Great Guy, tailors everything specific to your needs. He works just as hard for you to attain your goals and you do. Motivation with a great sense of humour. Mick will find the best path to help you attain your goals

Fantastic experience: I’ve been training with Mick for nearly a year now and I couldn’t recommend him more highly. Mick will come to your home, office or wherever it suits you, at a time that’s convenient for both parties. He brings all his own stuff so you don’t have to worry about any expensive gym equipment. Mick also brings decades of experience with him. He knows exactly which expercises to use and exactly how far to push you. Always outside of your comfort zone to ensure improvement but never so far that you collapse :) He is always in good spirits and will throw in a few entertaining yarns to help you stay motivated throughout the session. I’ve lost over 20 kgs with Mick, and I’ve dramatically improved my strength and fitness. A gym membership will not give you the accountability and tailored advice that’s an integral part of Mick’s service. Knowing you have the sessions booked in with him prevents any procrastinating or backsliding. Worth every penny. You get what you pay for.

Fantastic experience: I started training with Michael a few months ago, after a few sessions I noticed my body shape changing (for the better!) and my fitness and energy levels increasing. Michael arrives promptly at arranged times to train me at home, with a varied workout every time.

Fantastic experience: Mick has been a fantastic trainer to me over the past few months, teaching me how to train properly. Even when I fractured my ankle due to an unrelated injury, be kept in touch and offered me advice to start training again. Back now with him and loving it. Thanks very much Mick.

Fantastic experience: I have been training with Mick now for a few weeks 3 times a week. In the short time he has been coaching me I am stronger than I ever have been, fitness levels are going up rapidly and I am happier than I have been for a long time. His passion is priceless for his craft and that comes across in his coaching I would not hesitate to recommend him to friends and family he is a true gent.

Fantastic experience: If motivation, flexibility, and a personal approach is what your looking for then look no further! The hour sessions are varied keeping it interesting and new. Mick also focuses on nutrition as well as exercise so that I achieve my goals quicker.

Fantastic experience: Half way through a six week program. I was chronically unfit over 23 stone hated exercise never was sporty, was seriously unwell at the start of February (life threateningly so). Expected to hate the training but saw it as a necessary evil, surprised when despite it being challenging and hard work I really enjoyed the sessions. Mick mixed up the training modifying it to my abilities, adapting exercises when I was unable to do them, still targeting the same muscle groups but enabling me to gain strength and flexibility. Meaning despite being only 3 weeks in feel stronger, more flexible, I have already decided to continue on with 1 on 1 training once 6 weeks is up. It's not easy, you could argue it's not cheap ( I would vehemently disagree you get what you pay for!!!!!, I researched lots of "trainers" few had actual qualifications and insurance) but I feel benefits already , at my intro session we measured what I could do in lots of areas. 3 weeks in the improvement is remarkable , exercises I simply couldn't do are now possible, ie jumping jacks, I think I managed 6, now I manage 3 sets of 25. Mick pushes me but not in an bad over aggressive macho way, he pays attention, gives great advice for exercise novices like me. Helps with advice around exercise routines,equipment and levels of exertion, I am happy to encourage anyone trying to get fit or make changes in their lifestyle to give inspiring fitness a try.

Fantastic experience: We (my mum, my brother and I) first got Michael out to help us get into shape for my brother's wedding. The wedding has since been and gone and we are still getting Michael out as we are hooked and love every minute of it. Since starting I feel stronger, leaner and faster and feel far more confident with how I look, which I know will increase even more with each session I complete. No matter what exercise you are doing or the time of your session, Michael always has a big smile and positively encourages and motivates you to push yourself all at the same time as keeping good form. Michael is an amzing PT and with his wealth of sound fitness knowledge, he can certainly "hammer" those extra calories out of you. If you are looking for a PT to help you along or to start your fitness transformation, look no further, Mr Hammer, (Michael) is the man for the job!!

Fantastic experience: I have completed a six week course with Michael. Had not exercised in years stopped smoking 2 years ago. Was really unfit the exercises and diet he worked out for me where hard at first but after the six weeks never felt fitter lost 1 stone 4lbs in weight toned up. I cant thank him enough have never felt better. PS Very friendly but does like you to push you to your limit.

Fantastic experience: I'm a busy mum of 2 young boys, I wasn't eating properly and moving up and up dress sizes. Cue Mick. Mick is friendly, fun, enthusiastic and focussed. He fitted straight into my schedule coming to my home at a time that suited me - normally when the baby was sleeping, however we did have a session or two with my toddler snacking in his high chair. And I have been to Mick's own gym, great for a change of scenery so plenty of options. Straight away Mick identified I wasn't breathing correctly when exercising, we rectified this on the first session. Sessions vary each time. If you want to work on a particular area he will tailor the exercises to this. I had full body workouts, tough but you are so motivated when you compare how strong you are, and how you have improved compared to your first session. I have toned up considerably, am fitter and have loads of energy. After a session you are on such a high, improving mental Health too. fantastic results, thanks Mick. I will definitely be booking further sessions in the future, maybe introduce me to running?

Fantastic experience: Both myself and my wife have been having a few sessions with Mick over the last couple of months. We’re both fairly lazy people with plenty of excuses not to exercise, but having Mick come round to our house to whip us into shape is just what we needed and does away with all the excuses not to train. Mick works around our schedule even at silly o’clock in the morning, we’ve both lost weight, feeling fitter, stronger and healthier. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: I stumbled upon Mick on Google when looking for a Personal Trainer who could come to my work as mornings or evenings at a gym just didn't suit my work commitments. He is amazing! I booked his 6 week introductory package and lost 10kg and dropped 2 dress sizes. I followed his nutritional advice and put 100% into every workout and can't believe the transformation. Mick comes to every session thoroughly prepared with a written plan of exercises for that day. Not only has my shape completely changed but I am SO much more flexible and I'm loving the extra strength I have built up. Even on days when I don't exercise I am still losing weight due to my raised metabolism. I can't recommend Mick highly enough. You won't be disappointed!

Fantastic experience: My husband was given a Christmas present from the famil of 12 sessions with Mick. We are both in our late 60,s and the usual story of overweight and unfit. I signed up following my husband. I have had a knee replacement and have arthritic aches and pains over my body. Mick is firstly, delightful, encouraging, and at the same time able to keep the pressure on for each of us to achieve our full potential.He came to our home which was a great help and did the complete work out in the house or garden weather permitting. Had we wanted to go running or ant other activity Mick aws completely flexible. Both of us quickly felt an improvment generally in our selves, more alive, fitter, an apprececiation that we can push the body through pain thresholds . Mick gave us advice on diet and general well being. He excercised along side each of us which helps not to feel embarased doing all the exercises.Mick emphasises the importance of building a strong inner core and how that helps to keep one safe. We went sking in March with the family , me for the first time following knee surgery and the sessions with Mick really paid off in giving us both that confidence which comes with feeling ""fit for the job" ! We would not have had the discipline to do this ourselves or the knowledge. It has been a great investment.

Fantastic experience: I have been training with Mick now for 6 months and I have notice my body changing for the better! I was cycling 3 times a weeks ( 80-100 miles) and I thought I was fit until I tried my first session with Mick, I could hardly move for a few days. Both my wife and myself have two sessions a week with Mick and we even look forward to these sessions. Mick always arrives the house on time with all the equipment and is always full of enthusiasm, he is even known to join in with the training. I feel a lot stronger and healthier and would recommend 'Mick the Boxer' to all!

Fantastic experience: I was struggling to get back into fitness so took the decision to find myself a personal trainer & along came Mick! I've just completed my 6 weeks of sessions with Mick where he came to my home twice a week. Mick always arrives full of energy & enthusiasm & he makes our sessions fun & entertaining! Every session is different & we never do the same exercise twice which I love. I feel so much fitter & stronger & am already seeing great results. Looking forward to even better results with my next batch of sessions! I would highly recommend him!

Fantastic experience: Great individualised training program to suit my specific strength and fitness goals. Mick ensured I got maximum benefit out of each session, knowing how far to push me whilst recovering from a sports injury. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Michael is fabulous to work with. Found him through Google search for my young, adult daughter and was very glad I did. He travelled to our home at a time we requested and was never late. He and my daughter had a strong rapport. I would highly recommend him. Great work Michael, thank you

Fantastic experience: I originally took my nearly teenager to a Hammer Fitness NI session because she wanted to try boxing. I was so surprised at how much fun we had, and what a great workout we got! Fast forward a few months, and we're happily attending 2 Hammer Fitness NI sessions per week and I've also got my husband and son involved! Mick has an unbeatable combination of knowledge, experience, enthusiasm for getting clients moving and improving, and patience for where clients are starting from. But the proof is in the pudding: I'm dropping sizes and feeling stronger every week, and my two reluctant nearly teenagers are enjoying working out! I would certainly encourage anyone to work with Mr. O'Connell, from a total beginner to an established athlete looking to reach the next level.

Fantastic experience: I've been working with Mick for 3months now and this review is long overdue! My goal when I started with Mick in August was fitness and improving my health As a full time working mum of a 1.5year old and 3year time is a precious commodity so Mick's ability to come to my house to save on a drive to a gym when the kids went to bed (which if I'm honest would never have happened) was the main attraction. Now three months in I'm loving the 'me' time I have when I'm training plus I've rediscovered my CD collection which for 3 hours a week transports me back to the White Isle circa 2008! Training never used to be this enjoyable. Importantly I'm feeling fitter and stronger. The game is upped at each session and I never feel unchallenged. My next goal is to rediscover my love of running which Mick can also help with should I need it which is great. Hammer Fitness NI gets a big thumbs up (or hands in the air! ) from me!