The Best Personal Trainers in Exeter (2026)
How we put this list together
Exeter has a strong personal training scene, so choosing a coach can feel harder than it should. To keep this guide honest and useful, we looked at real Google ratings and review counts alongside each trainer's local presence in the city. Every option below is an in person service based in Exeter, and each one has earned genuinely excellent feedback from local clients.
1. Better You Coaching
Better You Coaching is a small group personal training gym based at Cygnet Units in Sowton, Exeter. Rather than big class sizes or crowded gym floors, sessions run in a private gym with small groups, which means you get proper coaching attention without the price of one to one training every session. For anyone who finds commercial gyms intimidating, the friendly, judgement free atmosphere is a real point of difference.
The clients here are everyday adults from Exeter and the surrounding area, mostly women, many of whom are getting back into exercise or starting for the first time. Alongside small group PT, there is one to one coaching for those who want it, plus nutrition guidance and habit support, so the focus goes beyond workouts and into building routines that actually stick.
This is an in person gym rather than an online programme, which suits people who want real accountability, a consistent place to train and a coach who knows them by name. If you want structured training in a welcoming space without feeling watched or judged, Better You Coaching is a strong first call.
2. Train For Change Personal Training
Based at the Basepoint Business Centre on Yeoford Way in Marsh Barton, Train For Change Personal Training holds a 5 star Google rating from 49 reviews. That is an impressive record of consistent client satisfaction, and its Marsh Barton location makes it convenient for people living or working on the south side of Exeter.
3. Scott Atkins Fitness
Scott Atkins Fitness operates from Hybrid House on Summerway in the EX4 area of Exeter and has earned a 5 star Google rating across 89 reviews, one of the largest perfect review counts on this list. For anyone based on the eastern side of the city, it is a well regarded personal training option worth a look.
4. Martyn Kelland Coaching
Martyn Kelland Coaching is based on Marsh Barton Road in Exeter and carries a 5 star Google rating from 20 reviews. While the review count is smaller than some others here, the feedback is consistently positive, and the Marsh Barton location is easy to reach from much of the city.
5. Joe Edmonds Personal Training
Located on Haven Road near Exeter Quay, Joe Edmonds Personal Training has a 5 star Google rating from 67 reviews. That level of sustained positive feedback speaks well of the service, and the quayside location is handy for anyone based in or around the city centre.
6. Quay Fitness
Quay Fitness sits on Michael Browning Way in the Exeter Quay area and holds a 4.9 star Google rating from 87 reviews. It is a popular and well established choice in that part of the city, with a large body of reviews reflecting a strong reputation among local clients.
How to choose the right trainer for you
Every option on this list has excellent feedback, so the best choice comes down to fit. Think about the format you prefer, whether that is one to one sessions or small group training, how far you are happy to travel, and whether you want extra support with nutrition and habits alongside your workouts. Most trainers are happy to chat before you commit, so reach out, ask questions and pick the coach and environment where you feel most comfortable.
Ready when you are
Better You Coaching serves Exeter and the surrounding area. Get in touch and mention this page.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between small group PT and one to one personal training?
Small group PT means training in a small group with a coach guiding everyone, which usually costs less per session than one to one training. One to one sessions give you the coach's full attention. Small groups suit people who like a bit of community, while one to one suits those who want fully individual focus.
How do I know if a personal trainer in Exeter is any good?
Google reviews are a useful starting point, as they reflect real client experiences. Beyond ratings, look for a trainer who works with people similar to you, offers a consultation or trial session, and creates an environment where you feel comfortable asking questions.
Do I need to be fit before starting with a personal trainer?
No. Personal trainers work with people at every level, including complete beginners. A good coach will assess where you are now and build sessions around your current ability, so there is no need to get fit first before starting.