The friendly and supportive efforts of a Norwich fitness instructor have earned the title of being the best in Norfolk.

Matt Philpot of ATP Health and Fitness Norwich has been named Best Fitness Instructor in the county in this year’s Muddy Stilettos awards.

ATP hold classes at venues across the area including Sprowston, Hellesdon and Wymondham, with dad-of-two Matt being nominated for the lifestyle blog's awards.

The 38-year-old, from Taverham, found his passion for staying fit and healthy during his time as a soldier in the British Army.

That helped him recognise that maintaining a healthy lifestyle was not only key to helping him keep in shape but that it also “helps you feel fantastic”.

Norwich Evening News: Matt Philpot with fellow ATP Health and Fitness Norwich instructors, from left, Sophie Appel, Jackie Canham and Polly Cooke-Norton. Not pictured is Tally HanceMatt Philpot with fellow ATP Health and Fitness Norwich instructors, from left, Sophie Appel, Jackie Canham and Polly Cooke-Norton. Not pictured is Tally Hance (Image: ATP Health and Fitness Norwich)

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ATP was founded in 2009 and offers a range of classes for all ages and abilities

“Everyone feels counted for when they are in the class,” Matt said. “They are not just a number.”  

Matt added he was "ecstatic" to win the Muddy Stilettos award, particularly about receiving 46pc when it came to the top five.

He was also keen to share the success with his team of Louise Bugg, Tally Hance, Sophie Appel, Keree Sutton, Hannah Earley, Jackie Canham and Polly Cooke-Norton.

He is described as a “friendly supportive person” and “knows how to get the best out of you" by clients.

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Norwich Evening News: ATP Health and Fitness hold classes at locations across the Norwich area ATP Health and Fitness hold classes at locations across the Norwich area (Image: ATP Health and Fitness Norwich)

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Matt advocates that exercise is as important for the mind as it is for the body and aims to inspire people to find a love for group fitness the same way he did.

With that in mind, ATP is offering a free fitness day on Saturday, July 22, a two-hour class consisting of bitesize chunks of classes including Combat, Rockbox, Pilates, Abs and Sculpt.

Starting at 9am, the event will be held at Hellesdon High School, with all fitness abilities and ages welcome to join!

Sixty-five of the 100 spaces have already been claimed. To book, email info@healthandfitness.uk.com.