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Part One: From Crisis to Comeback — The Story of Ray Conway
An Introduction to Ray Conway
“You’re going to be paralysed from the neck down.” That was the chilling prognosis given to Ray Conway after a horrific motorcycle accident in 2005. But for Ray, that moment wasn’t the end—it was the beginning of a remarkable transformation.
At 66 years old, Ray is now a thriving personal trainer at City Athletic in London. With a loyal client base, a successful online coaching business, and a story that stops people in their tracks, Ray’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless optimism.
From the Trading Floor to the Training Floor
Before fitness, Ray was part of a very different world: the high-pressure environment of the trading floor in London’s financial district. But when the industry shifted with the rise of digital technology, Ray began to re-evaluate what really mattered to him.
It started with a favour for a friend, coaching their child. Then gym sessions for mates. Before long, Ray found himself immersed in movement, mindset, and mentoring.
“I was doing it without even realising I was doing it,” Ray says. “Three months became six months, became 25 years.”
He hadn’t planned to become a personal trainer—it simply grew from a passion he could no longer ignore.
The Motorcycle Accident That Changed Everything
In a flash, everything changed. Hit by a car on Commercial Road, Ray suffered a fractured C1 vertebra—a life-threatening break at the top of the spine. He was told he’d likely never walk again.
But Ray did more than walk. He returned to work, raised his children, and rebuilt his body piece by piece.
“The doctor couldn’t believe it,” he recalls. “He said my shoulders and neck muscles saved my life.”
It was a brutal period, but it revealed Ray’s inner strength and determination. His recovery became the blueprint for how he would later train others.
Lessons From 26 Surgeries: The Power of Mindset and Prehab
Ray’s path to full recovery included 26 surgeries—and countless hours of rehabilitation. But one key influence during that time was world-renowned physiotherapist John Green. His no-nonsense approach shaped Ray’s own style as a coach: challenging but effective.
“I’ve had people bounce back from ACL surgeries in 14 weeks. That’s usually a 9-month process.”
The key, according to Ray, is mindset. Whether working with dancers, fighters, or weekend warriors, he knows that attitude often determines outcome.
He now incorporates prehab-style training with all clients—building strength, joint stability, and confidence before injury ever happens.
Coming Up in Part Two…
We explore Ray’s obsession with longevity, breath work, and blood sugar. Plus, how he’s helping clients in their 70s move better than ever and why his approach keeps people training with him for decades.
Watch on YouTube: The Story of Ray Conway
Listen on the Podcast – Prefer audio? Tune in here:
Final Thoughts: Lead from the Front
Perhaps the most powerful takeaway from Ray Conway and his journey is the example he sets. At 66, he walks the talk.
“There’s no arguing with me. They see I’m 66 and in shape—job done.”
Next steps
Want to follow in Ray’s footsteps and become a qualified personal trainer? Enrol onto one of our industry-leading courses at Storm Fitness Academy, or fill out the form below for some friendly advice and guidance. We’re here to help you take the first step toward a career you’ll love.
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