Thrive In Motion

Clinical Exercise Physiologist in St Albans – Thrive In Motion

🎓 Meet Shane Purcell, BSc (Hons), PGDip, MSc

Clinical Exercise Physiologist in St Albans | NHS Professional | Specialist in Movement for Health

My journey in health and fitness began through sport 🏉 — I was always active growing up, which naturally led me to study Sports Science at university. Over the years, I gained qualifications as a personal trainer, swimming teacher, and lifeguard, and went on to complete a postgraduate diploma and a master’s in Sports Performance, eventually earning my CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) accreditation through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) 🏋️‍♂️.

After working with sports teams as a strength and conditioning coach, I shifted my focus to clinical fitness. I saw how exercise could transform the lives of people managing long-term health conditions — yet too few professionals had the clinical knowledge to support them safely. That inspired me to train as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist. Now, I work within the NHS, helping patients with heart conditions ❤️, fatigue, and other medical challenges use exercise to feel stronger, healthier, and more confident.

Outside of work, I’ve always had a passion for endurance sport — completing triathlons, marathons, and the UK Three Peaks Challenge ⛰️. After developing hip issues and undergoing a hip replacement in my mid-30s, I experienced what it’s like to be a patient myself — learning how to adapt and keep moving. Now, as a parent balancing fitness with family life 👨‍👧, I bring a real-world, compassionate perspective to my work.

I’m also a named author on the HCM Safe research paper, focused on safe exercise for people with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. I regularly collaborate with cardiologists, deliver webinars for Cardiomyopathy UK 💻, and speak at support groups 💬 to promote safe, inclusive exercise for all.

A smiling man wearing a navy blue shirt and a blue NHS lanyard stands against a plain light-colored wall.

Movement With Purpose — and Perspective

My philosophy is rooted in helping people feel stronger, safer, and more connected to their bodies — in a way that works with their lifestyle, not against it.

I believe movement is medicine — not punishment. I don’t deliver bootcamps or quick fixes. Instead, I guide people in building lasting habits through safe, meaningful, and evidence-based exercise.

As a husband, dad to an energetic little one, and a cat owner, I understand firsthand the challenges of balancing health, family, and work. That perspective shapes everything I do — helping clients find flexible, realistic ways to move with confidence, even in busy lives.

Whether you're managing a health condition or simply looking to move with more purpose, I’m here to help you find what works, not just what’s expected.

Testimonials

  • Patient with Cardiomyopathy (ARVC) + ICD

    “Shane was a huge help in getting me back to exercise after my cardiomyopathy diagnosis. His cardiac rehab knowledge and tailored approach made me feel safe and supported. He even gave me helpful questions to take to my consultant. Highly recommended.”

  • Patient with Cardiomyopathy (ARVC) + ICD

    “Shane was professional, empathetic, and incredibly knowledgeable. He listened without rushing and left me feeling confident and motivated about my cardiac rehab. Highly recommend.”