Hi, I’m Ray
I'm an inclusive Personal Trainer in Manchester working with queer and neurospicy folks, and anyone who’s ever felt the gym isn’t for them
Eating right, training right and looking after our mental wellbeing can seem like a big job - who’s got the time?! Especially when you’re not sure where to start.
Through a complete, holistic approach focussing on habits, nutrition, training and progression, I’m there every step of the way. This isn’t just a few training sessions per week, it can be a complete lifestyle change, so that you can get the most out of your kick-ass body and mind.
I have my own studio over at Pollard Yard which is a welcoming, inclusive and private space for us to train, free from the intimidation and ego of the average gym environment.
ray Loakes
(they/them)
Founder and Head Coach at Lift
Inclusive Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach in Manchester
A bit about me: I’m constantly dancing (if you can call it that!) and sometimes I’m so enthusiastic that some people assume I’m being sarcastic!
My passion is creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ and Neurodivergent individuals in particular, to learn how to lift safely and effectively, as well as how to build healthier lifestyle habits to support their progress.
I’m direct, driven and will push you but don’t worry, you’ll still be able to walk the next day!
I am a qualified Personal Trainer, Breathwork Instructor, Level 4 RSPH Nutrition Advisor, Exercise Referral Instructor and Corrective Exercise Specialist. I’m also listed as one of the best personal trainers in Manchester and you can find me on the Proud Wellness directory.
I get how hard making changes to your lifestyle and eating habits can be. So we’re not going to make any super drastic changes that a) you’re going to hate and b) you won’t be able to stick to long term.
I want to get you to a place that you are proud of, confident you can move forward maintaining a happy, thriving version of you – the real you!!
Laura Wylde
MCSP (she/they)
Registered Chartered Physiotherapist
Hi, I’m Laura! I’m a Registered Chartered Physiotherapist and a multiple world and British champion kickboxer. I graduated in 2017 from Manchester Metropolitan University with a BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy and have spent 8 years working in the NHS as a musculoskeletal physiotherapist. I still work as a clinical specialist physiotherapist in St Helens and as a first contact practitioner in GP practices, alongside seeing clients privately through my own business, Kickstart Physio.
I love snowboarding—although I may think I’m better than I am and often end up falling on my ass after jumping too high! Kickboxing is also a huge passion of mine, and earning my black belt is definitely one of my greatest achievements, along with cycling from London to Brighton for charity and hiking the highest mountain in Slovenia solo over 3 days.
My favourite foods are doughnuts and peanut butter, so if you’ve got any bakery recommendations, we’ll definitely hit it off!
Belle Coulthard
(she/her/any)
Neurodivergent-Affirming Wellbeing Practitioner
I’m Belle, a wellbeing practitioner with a deep passion for helping neurodivergent, unconventional, and creatively minded adults find more balance, clarity, and ease in their everyday lives. I believe wellbeing isn’t about perfection – it’s about learning how to understand yourself, build supportive habits, and create a life that feels more manageable, nourishing, and aligned with who you are.
My work is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and practicality. Having worked with many “spicy-brained” individuals (myself included!), I understand how overwhelming life can feel when your brain works a little differently. That’s why I focus on teaching real-life tools – things you can actually use day to day – to help you navigate stress, build calm, and stay on top of life’s demands without burning out.
I draw on research-informed approaches including mindfulness, ACT, CBT-style strategies, nervous system regulation, and lifestyle-based wellbeing. But more importantly, I meet you where you are – with warmth, patience, and genuine understanding.
Nugget
Resident Nap Enthusiast & Side-eye Specialist
If you’ve trained with me, chances are you’ve already been blessed by the presence of Nugget – my four-legged shadow, sun-chaser, and the unofficial co-coach here at Lift.
He’s a Romanian rescue, a living teddy-bear and a cat in disguise. Occasionally meows, rubs against you like a cat, and absolutely insists on finding the warmest spot in the room – even if that means stealing your lap mid-session.
Nugget doesn’t have the people-pleasing vibe of a spaniel. He’s full of quiet sass, knows exactly what he wants (usually: sunshine, affection, or hands to play with), and will stare me down if his bed has moved out of the sun.
He’s more of a hand man than playing with toys. If he can interact with you via gentle hand-nibbles or throwing his tiny body against you and writhing around like a gremlin, he’s in heaven.
Clients adore him, and the feeling’s mutual (unless he’s mid-nap – priorities, obviously). He’ll usually greet you at the door… but if he’s in a particularly good nap, he might catch you next time.
Nugget brings calm energy, softness, and a bit of quiet comedy to our Manchester personal training studio. He reminds us that movement is about feeling good – and that healing happens best when we feel safe, comfortable, and maybe a little bit adored by a sleepy dog in a sunbeam.
The Studio
Inclusive Fitness studio in Manchester for hire
Our fitness studio in Manchester is designed to be a calm, private, and welcoming space – especially for LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients who may not feel at ease in typical gym environments. There’s no loud music, no bright lights, and no pressure – just you, your trainer or coach, and a space that’s built to support your goals at your pace.
Whether you’re here for inclusive personal training, physiotherapy, rehab, or small group sessions, you’ll find a low-stress environment where you can focus, move, and feel good in your body – without judgment or distraction.
An affirming, inclusive space for all bodies and minds.
If you’re a professional – a personal trainer, physiotherapist, coach, or creative – and you’re looking for a quiet, welcoming space to work with clients or create content, our studio is available for hire. It’s ideal for those who want a supportive, no-pressure environment to do what they do best.
Have You Tried Gyms Before and Felt Intimidated, Awkward or Uninspired?
Or maybe you’ve tried lots of approaches and just can’t seem to make the progress you’re looking for?
Let’s change that.
Let’s get you into an environment that’s judgement-free, supportive and genuinely inspiring. While some people feel more comfortable working with a female personal trainer, what matters most is finding a coach who listens, adapts and meets you where you’re at.
That’s exactly what we do at Lift.
Let's work together
Fancy a chat? (If you’re like me and always have a million questions!)