About
James Gale - Rugged
About Me:
Hi, I’m James Gale, a dedicated Personal trainer, Nutritionist, and passionate outdoor enthusiast. With over 16 years of experience in the health and fitness/Wellness industry.
I’ve devoted my life to helping others reach their peak potential through physical fitness, nutrition, and a profound connection with nature. My philosophy is simple: “Life is a journey, not a destination.”
Mission and Vision:
My mission with Rugged is to inspire and support individuals in their journey towards better health, fitness, and mental well-being. I believe in the power of nature, the importance of resilience, and the need for high-quality, all-natural nutritional products. Rugged’s vision is to become a trusted companion for adventurers, athletes, and anyone seeking to improve their overall well-being.
Rugged: Reach Your Peak
Rugged is more than a brand; it’s a movement. Inspired by my own journey, Rugged aims to empower individuals to push their limits, embrace nature, and achieve their peak potential. Our products, including the Rugged Energy Balls and Peak Performance Blends, are meticulously crafted to provide the highest quality nutrition for those who lead an active lifestyle.
Professional Journey:
Upon returning to the UK, I pursued my passion for health and fitness. I qualified as a personal trainer and nutritionist, eventually opening my own studio gym and later, the successful Core Health Bar and Core Meals. These ventures, which included a meal prep service, catered to athletes and fitness enthusiasts, helping them achieve their health goals with tailored nutrition.
Despite the success, I faced the impact of COVID-19 and personal burnout, leading me to shut down Core Meals. However, during the pandemic, I pivoted my business to provide food and supplies to those in need and even started online cooking shows. In 2022, I launched Rugged, a brand that embodies my love for the outdoors and commitment to quality nutrition.
Personal Life:
When I’m not developing new products or training clients, you can find me exploring the great outdoors. An avid hiker, I find solace and inspiration in nature, often embarking on challenging solo hikes, such as a 100km coastal trek, a 30-hour hike in the Brecon Beacons, and a 130km journey across the South Downs. I’m also preparing to become a certified mountain leader, further aligning my personal interests with my professional mission.
I’m passionate about mental health, recognising it as equally important as physical health. I advocate for resilience, independence from societal pressures, and the importance of unplugging from the noisy world of social media and mainstream media. My experiences have shaped my belief in living a life free from the constraints of societal expectations, encouraging others to think for themselves and live authentically.
Early Life and Challenges:
My journey began with significant challenges. Born partially deaf, I struggled with speech and hearing until the age of eight. My early years were marked by constant relocation, family struggles, and bullying. These experiences, however, forged my resilience and determination.
At 16, I embarked on an international adventure, moving from the UK to the UAE and then to Canada, learning to navigate life independently in a foreign land. Abandoned by my father at 17, I taught myself the essentials of survival and adulthood. These years of hardship taught me the values of grit, adaptability, and self-reliance. I faced dangerous situations, including being held at knifepoint and gunpoint, which only strengthened my resolve.
Inspiring Words:
“Fate whispers to the warrior, you cannot withstand the storm. The warrior whispers back, I am the storm.”
My life is a testament to resilience and determination. From solo ultra hikes and overcoming abandonment, to facing life-threatening situations and thriving through the challenges of COVID-19, my journey is one of unwavering strength and perseverance. My story is a powerful reminder that we can rise above our circumstances, embrace adversity, and find our true path.
I am dedicated to showing people another way of living—one that is tougher, more resilient, and free from the pressures of society. I believe in thinking for oneself, unplugging from the distractions of modern life, and prioritising mental health as much as physical health.