James Breese
Founder & Head Coach
James Breese is a fitness and performance expert dedicated to helping everyday athletes move better, feel stronger, and live longer. As the founder of Strength Matters, Cricket Matters, and Digital Matters 360, James combines over 20 years of coaching experience with a unique blend of technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and a passion for lifelong athleticism.
My Background
My Background
With a BA (Hons) in French and German and an MSc in Computer Science from Cardiff University, James began his career in the Metropolitan Police Service, where he honed the discipline and strategic thinking that now shape his coaching.
As an advanced Personal Trainer, Krav Maga Instructor, and holder of advanced training and rehab qualifications, James combines technical expertise with real-world experience to deliver impactful coaching.
James is the author of Maximum Aerobic Power, a best-seller with over 5,000 copies sold, and the founder of Strength Matters Magazine, a print publication that inspired athletes and coaches worldwide.
An accomplished cricket coach and player for Cardiff CC and the Wales Over 40s, James’s mission is to help everyday athletes excel in sport, work, and life by focusing on movement, performance, and longevity.
Expertise
- Strength Training & Performance
- Cardiovascular Training & Longevity
- Movement & Mobility Optimisation
- Rehabilitation & Corrective Exercise
- Athletic Coaching & Sports Performance
- Online Coaching Systems
Higher Education
- BA (Hons) French and German, Cardiff University
- MSc Computer Science, Cardiff University
Fitness Education & Certifications
- Level 3 Personal Trainer
- Advanced Movement & Mobility Training
- Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA Level 1)
- FMS Level 1 & Level 2
- Functional Capacity Screen (FCS)
- Y-Balance Test (YBT)
- Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certified
- Krav Maga Global Instructor
Specialist Skills
- Advanced Level 1.1 Pursuit Driver, Metropolitan Police Service: The highest driving honour in the Met, showcasing discipline, precision, and ultimate performance under pressure.
As Featured In:
Print Books
- Maximum Aerobic Power (2020)
Print Publications
- Founder & Editor, Strength Matters Magazine
Podcasts
- FMS Podcast: Walking Away from Pain
- Peak Performance Podcast with Andrew Read
- The Health Oddity Podcast
Speaking Engagements
- Perform Better Europe (2016–2024)
- Filex Australia (2017–2018)
Recent Articles
WWS: The Simple, Science-Backed Strategy for Health, Longevity, and Performance
The Strength Matters Performance Pyramid: The Ultimate Athlete Development System
The Seven Fundamental Human Movements
Training the Aging Athlete: Why Elite Methods Don’t Work for Your Clients
The Strength Matters Weight Loss Process: Transform Your Clients’ Diet Strategy!
What Is The Aerobic Threshold: The Ultimate Guide
Running for Weight Loss: The Ultimate Guide
The Everyday Athlete’s Manifesto: Leveraging Fitness for Maximum Health Span
Proven Strategy: How to Do a Pull-Up [Real-Life Case Study]
The Power of Hybrid Personal Training: The Ultimate Guide
Tempo Training for Strength: The Ultimate Guide to 31X1 for Trainers
The Anaerobic Lactic Energy System: The Ultimate Guide
What Is The Aerobic Energy System: The Ultimate Guide
Proven Strategy: How to Build Lean Muscle for Skinny Guys [Real-Life Case Study]
Strength Training for Endurance Athletes
Cardio for Beginners: The Ultimate Guide
[Training Plan] How To Get A Faster 500m Row Time
Unleash N.E.A.T: Your Secret Weapon for Faster Fat Loss
What is Athleticism: The 10 Components You Must Know
The Ultimate Guide to the Anaerobic Alactic Energy System
The Ultimate Guide to the Anaerobic Threshold
The Secret to a Faster 2000m Row [Beginner Case Study]
Advanced Strategies for a Lightning-Fast 500m Row Time
The Power Blueprint: Realistic Strength Standards to Aim For
Lose Weight by Breathing: Your Ultimate Guide
In-Person vs Online Personal Training: An Honest Comparison
Unveiling the Truth: Is Jogging Bad For You?
Why Clients Should Prioritize Sleep Over Diet and Exercise
[Case Study] The Power of Prioritizing Health Over Strength
Cold Exposure Training: The Ultimate Guide
[Interview] How To Train Like A New Zealand All Black With Nic Gill
The Five Stages of Fitness Business Growth
The Black Belt Fitness Business Growth System
How to Professionalize Your Fitness Business in Just 5 Steps
How to Become a Great Online Personal Trainer
Website Design for Massage Therapists [Powerful Case Study]
A Fit Pro’s Guide: How to Start a Fitness Business
Here’s What Others Are Saying About Us…
Discover how our personal training services transformed their lives—and can do the same for you.
Stronger Every Day
After multiple surgeries, I turned to Strength Matters. Their focus on true health resonated. Now, I’m rebuilding stronger every day. Highly recommend!
– Rob Richardson, Actor
Best Decision Ever
Found Strength Matters 5 years ago and haven’t looked back. Fixed my core issues, improved my health and mobility, and even aced duty tests. Best choice I made!
– Charlie Nelson, US Marine
Life’s Better Now
Crippling back pain sidelined me, but with their guidance, I dropped 20kg, rebuilt my strength, and returned to BJJ pain-free. Life’s better now—eternally thankful!
– Jeroen Westra, Gym Owner
Faster, Stronger!
At 50, I thought I’d seen my best. Now I’m faster, stronger, and racing past my younger self.
– Teresa Warren, Executive