About Lightning Fitnesss

The Story Behind Lightning Fitness

Founded in 2006, Lightning Fitness was built on the belief that personal training should be tailored, evidence-based and person-first. After years of working in large corporate gym environments, Tom Nissen saw firsthand how one-size-fits-all training models failed to address individual needs, injuries and long-term progression. He wanted to create an approach that put people first, ensuring training was built around science, adaptability and sustainable progress.

With a background in sports science, rehabilitation and coaching, Tom has spent nearly two decades specialising in musculoskeletal rehabilitation, neurological training and performance coaching. Whether working with athletes, rehabilitation clients or those looking to build strength and confidence, Lightning Fitness provides expert-led training that prioritises long-term results over quick fixes.

A Career Built on Expertise & Experience

With a BSc Hons in Sport & Exercise Science (2004) and an undergraduate prize in sports psychology for research on goal-setting, Tom’s approach is deeply rooted in scientific principles and real-world application. His career spans across:

Personal training & rehabilitation, working with beginners through to Olympic-level athletes.
High-level coaching & movement workshops, including training sports teams at the national league level.
Instructor education, writing and delivering industry-accredited fitness courses.

His experience working across all levels of sport, rehabilitation and coaching provides a unique perspective, ensuring that every client receives a training program that is effective, evidence-driven and personalised to their needs.

Specialist Rehabilitation & Multi-Disciplinary Approach

Rehabilitation is at the heart of Lightning Fitness, focusing on musculoskeletal recovery, brain injury rehabilitation and vestibular training. Tom has worked extensively as part of multi-disciplinary healthcare teams, collaborating with:

Neurological & musculoskeletal physiotherapists

Psychologists and mental health professionals

Occupational therapists and registered dietitians

Collaborative Care for Comprehensive Recovery

This approach provides comprehensive support, especially for those recovering from brain or spinal cord injuries, chronic pain, or surgery. With a trusted healthcare network, every programme is safe, structured, and medically aligned.

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An Empowerment-Based Training Philosophy

Training is about confidence, adaptability and resilience. At Lightning Fitness, the focus is always on what you can do, rather than limitations. Whether working with clients recovering from injury, managing long-term conditions, or aiming for peak performance, the goal is to:

Rebuild strength, mobility and movement quality in a way that is safe and progressive.
Encourage confidence in movement, helping clients return to sports, daily activities and long-term fitness goals.
Create adaptable training programs, ensuring that sessions fit the client’s needs, physical condition and rehabilitation stage.

This individual-first approach ensures that training is both effective and sustainable, allowing clients to make real progress without the pressure of unrealistic expectations.

Accreditations & Industry Recognition

Tom Nissen BSc (Hons), TechCASES is a member of CASES (Chartered Association of Sports & Exercise Sciences) and holds multiple high-level certifications, including:

CASES Exercise Science Certified Practitioner
BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Sciences
Level 4 Specialist Health & Rehabilitation Certifications
Master Trainer and GP Exercise Referral Qualification

His expertise in sports science, rehabilitation and performance coaching ensures that every session at Lightning Fitness is based on scientific principles, industry best practices and real-world application.

A Personalised Approach to Training & Rehabilitation

At Lightning Fitness, we understand that training isn’t about generic workouts or trendy fitness fads but about expert-led, individualised coaching that helps people move better, feel stronger and recover smarter. Whether you’re:

Recovering from injury or surgery
Managing a neurological or musculoskeletal condition
Looking to improve sports performance
Seeking structured, long-term training for strength and mobility

You’ll receive a tailored plan built around your goals, abilities and progress.

If you’re ready to train with purpose, recover with confidence and build long-term resilience, get in touch today to start your journey with Lightning Fitness.