07955 823696 Appointments Only Progress Mill, Marsh House Lane BB3 3JB Darwen, UK

Science, Spirit, Transformation

The Alchemy delivers specific science-based training methods to achieve the best results for you. Whether you are looking to get stronger & fitter, look & feel better or enhance your performance within a given sport – The Alchemy has got you covered! All sessions are designed by a passionate and experienced strength and conditioning coach (BSc, MSc). We deliver these results within 1) group training sessions, 2) 1-1 coaching.

EXPERT ADVICE

Chris is a widely recognised strength and conditioning coach who has developed a wealth of knowledge and experience working within Professional sports teams, such as Burnley Football Club and Wigan Warriors RLFC, while currently preparing athletes from a variety of sporting backgrounds, including Professional boxers: former English champion Jack Flatley & rising prospect Abdul Khan.

A PROCESS OF TRANSFORMATION

The Alchemy

Transformation starts within. A desire to make change.

With the professional guidance delivered at The Alchemy you will learn the tools, understand the methods & apply the principles to life lasting positive change.

While being surrounded by likeminded individuals/members will keep you accountable to continued progress…!!

THE ATHLETES CHOICE

Professional Athletes only work with the best and every client gets the exact same level of commitment/attention from our staff.

FRIENDLY FITNESS

The Gym is a place to make new friends but we do encourage you bring along yours too. Introducing a friend to the alchemy can potentially help them in so many different ways.

IT DOES NOT END IN THE GYM

We encourage your fitness commitments to venture outside of the gym also. The Alchemy often organise outdoor activities such as Mountain Walks and Outdoor Bootcamps.  

Push your Limits
Its that simple

Getting in shape has never been so straight forward

What is HYROX?

Video introduction

Hyrox is a global fitness race for Every Body. Participants from all around the world compete in the exact same format. The race starts with a 1 km run, followed by 1 functional movement, which repeats 8 times, taking place in large indoor venues, creating a unique stadium like atmosphere for all participants.

Check out the video to see exactly how HYROX operates.

APPOINTMENTS ONLY

Using our online booking system, you can secure you training sessions in advance….

Drop-in sessions and memberships

Whether you are looking to test out our training sessions, or you want to be an Alchemy member, we have a wide range of sessions and packages to choose from.

Individual goals within a group environment

At The Alchemy, we realise that everyone has their own unique goals. We pay attention to every individual clients/members needs/goals to encourage that everyone achieves the best results when training with us. 

We limit our training sessions to 10 people per session.

Specialist instruction which is nice and easy to digest

At 'the Alchemy', we provide you
the best learning environment

Choosing the most effective way to train is not an easy decision.

And walking into a new gym with countless machines can be a daunting proposal.

That is why at The Alchemy we like to keep things simple.  The gym is not oversized or intimidating and it has been specifically designed to provide elite strength and conditioning tuition. Every appliance serves multiple purposes and with the skilled supervision given, is both easy and fun to perform whilst providing peak results.

Although you will be put through your paces to an extremely high level it is important you understand the gym is a very manageable and safe space to get fit.

Meet the Coach

Chris Poole is the founder and Head Coach at The Alchemy. A Professional Strength & Conditioning Coach who has always had a passion for training and performance. Having achieved his own success in Amateur boxing winning Regional and National Championships. Running Marathons, Ultra Marathons, and now embarking on a whole new journey within the professional ranks of Hyrox – ‘The World Series of Fitness Racing’. Chris knows what you can achieve with the right guidance, training & mindset. This has given Chris a genuine passion to teach and guide people towards achieving success through training, health & performance. Making the decision to help others achieve their own successes, Chris made the decision to pursue a degree within the field of Strength & Conditioning, achieving a First Class bachelor’s degree with honours, and then working towards achieving a Master’s degree. During a lengthy coaching career, Chris has provided Sports Science support to professional sports clubs such as Burnley football club, Wigan Warriors RLFC, while finally making the decision to leave his role as Head of Academy Sports Science at Rochdale AFC, to pursue his goal of having his own gym. The Alchemy has been developed through years of personal achievements, acquired knowledge, and in the trenches coaching experience bringing a unique and bespoke approach to training. Chris now passes on his knowledge and expertise at The Alchemy where everyone can achieve their goals. Delivering group training sessions to a diverse clientele ranging from all ages and abilities, to Professional Boxer such as former Light Middleweight English Champion Jack Flatley and rising prospect Abdul Khan.

Christopher Poole

Gym Instructor/Owner

Membership Options

How often do you wish to train?

Unlimited Group Membership

£80/ MO
  • Unlimited group training sessions
  • Valid for the full month
  • Check the Timetable
Learn More

Drop in Session

£10/ MO
  • £10 each session
  • Drop in at your convenience 
  • Check the Timetable
Learn More

Testimonial

  • I have been training with Chris from the start of 2022 to help me with my sport of professional boxing. In this time chris has helped me build my strength and speed and given me lots of insight in to other areas of my training. Would recommend him to anyone from beginners to athletes as he is really passionate about what he does and very knowledgeable 💪

    Jack Flatley
    Professional Boxer
  • I train many places in the past but this is by far the best place very knowledgeable coach Great atmosphere in group sessions and most of all got me to the fitness level I’ve been looking for for so long! Thanks chris

    Leigh Potts
    Locksmith
  • If you’re looking to unlock your full potential, this is where it’s at! I have been following a structured gym program for 2 years, and in the short time I’ve been training with Chris I’ve raised the bar massively for myself. Through group classes and 1-1 sessions I’ve seen significant positive changes in my mindset, strength and fitness. I have been supported in optimising my workouts and nutrition to achieve my goals. Perfectly put “group training that delivers personal results” whether you are experienced, or feel like a beginner – it’s a fun and motivating environment at The Alchemy. Massive thanks to you Chris!

    Victoria Strahan
    Area Manager
  • Training at the alchemy has enhanced my training through the roof. Working alongside Chris has been professional and has been amazing. The sessions are tailored towards the athlete/client and I have seen huge improvements in my performance in the ring. Nutrition and wellbeing has been on point as well as the physical training in the gym. Highly recommend

    Abdul Khan
    Professional Boxer
  • Been coming to the alchemy for a good few months now to improve my strength and conditioning for boxing.. before I got there I just thought I’d be lifting heavy weights.. comely not the case.. the detail shep puts into his sessions and the knowledge he has on s and c is second to none.. the benefits I feel I have gained from his sessions is unreal.. I feel sharper stronger more explosive.. I buzz when I leave as I feel I have gained knowledge from it.. looking forward to the many years ahead with you mate .. thanks for helping and training me

    Kie Mcafee
    Professional Boxer
  • Highly recommended the Alchemy , Chris is a knowledgeable professional who ensures everyone in his classes are catered to. The progress I have seen within myself as well as people I train with is amazing I am stronger, healthier, fitter and leaner than I ever have been . Chris’ nutritional plans are the best, never in my life have I enjoyed dieting but the plan I was put on didn’t even feel like a diet just nutritional food catered to my lifestyle and the results where fantastic.
    Chris has even spent time to adapt the sessions to my pregnancy his knowledge is insane! I have felt safe and strong throughout!

    Tara Blaney
    Student
  • Chris is an amazing guy, amazing coach, helps push you to your MAX and further. He’s been so great with me coming back in summer and over Christmas in my off season. He helps me stay fit, strong and explosive and every session I feel like I have worked so hard with a lot of purpose behind each exercise helping me work on football specifics. Gym sessions go by so fast because we have a good laugh whilst working hard. Would highly recommend for any person, whatever age, whatever your goal. He has so much experience and will get you where you want to be. Chris made my sister enjoy going to the gym and I never thought that would happen in my life so there you go.

    Katie Bradley
    Womens Soccer Player - University of Central Florida
  • I’ve been going to Alchemy for the last year, being fit & healthy has always been important to me. With Chris I’ve reached a new understanding of fitness & nutrition. I feel the best I ever have!! Chris will get you to your goals in a positive & encouraging way. Highly recommended

    Ben Breakspere
    Post Office Owner
  • Been training with Chris for a couple of months and I have noticed not only a difference in physique but in mindset. Chris tailors the sessions to suit your goals/needs and gives you the knowledge and confidence to be able to do the workout independently. He’s also supported me with nutrition and got me on the right track in terms of what’s best to eat and when, while still understanding that life happens and it’s okay to go out for food/drink occasionally. Fab trainer and recommend 1000000%!

    Beth Breakspere
    School Teacher
  • If I could give 10 stars I would.
    Highly recommend The Alchemy, obviously physical/health improvement being the main factor, but also for your mindset. Chris is a brilliant motivator – even on those days where your just not feeling it! He pushes you outside of your comfort zone and you come away from classes feeling amazing. Outside of sessions Chris is always on hand to offer support and answer any questions you may have.
    Group sessions are high energy, and you find not just Chris encouraging you but also others taking part – great team spirit when your surrounded by others who are motivated.
    You will not be disappointed training here. Thanks Chris, for all of your hard work and for putting up with my moaning!

    Scarlett Moylan
    Totally Wicked Sales Executive
  • Really enjoyed training with Chris over the past few months, and noticed results FAST! I became much stronger than I expected, and drastically improved my general fitness levels. You are pushed and worked hard, but the support within the group training classes makes you feel comfortable so you strive to achieve. Looking forward to returning when I’m back from uni!

    Gabriella Cain
  • Each session delivered by Chris provides everything it says on the box high intensity training at its finest . . . Chris pushes you to your limit and you leave feeling like you have given all you have week on week.

    It is without a doubt the hardest I ever work during a workout with the benefits of a great coach and a group of like minded people who also want the most from their sessions.

    Sarah Hague
  • Would 100% recommend Chris at The Alchemy! We’ve been working 1-1 for a short while now to correct and strengthen a shoulder injury. Each week I feel I gain more movement in my shoulder and pain and tightness lessens. I have been at the physio every 6 weeks for just under a year for hands on treatment and he was impressed and said how everything felt much looser and didn’t need to manipulate much even though I’d not mentioned that I’d been working with Chris. So if you find yourself with a similar problem and looking for someone to help – get in touch with Chris 🙌🏻

    Heather Nuttall
  • I have trained for years lifting weights then doing Crossfit, and sustained a double rotator cuff injury about 4 years ago which literally stopped me in my tracks. The Alchemy was recommended by a family friend and I went to see Chris who devised a program to get me going again, I was very wary to train as I didn’t want to injure myself again but not only has Chris got me training he has built my confidence back up to me feeling able to start getting involved in the classes. The programme has been so successful that I have had no pain, or impingement at all since working with Chris.
    As a seasoned gym rat I now have a new perspective on training and can’t thank The Alchemy enough.

    Martin Evans
  • Having an incredible experience at The Alchemy. Chris has helped me overcome injury, build strength and achieve goals I never imagined possible following medical advice. Very knowledgeable and have seen results much quicker than anticipated.

    Elena Revell
    Architect
  • I’ve been training with Chris for the last 7 months and have never felt better, he understands what you want to achieve and will push you to your maximum potential to help you get there, his approach is extremely genuine and he is both and trainer and a friend, there’s nothing about his training style that I can fault and the his enthusiasm about your own improvements make it even easier to push yourself. I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else!

    Kane Gillard
    Digital Marketer
  • I’ve been training with Chris for a few months now. He pushes me every single class and fills me with knowledge on form, reps, strength etc. I’m enjoying my training more than ever and can’t wait to see what else is in store 💪🏼 10/10 would highly recommend.

    Nicole Wilson
    Nursery Owner
  • I am 26, and as a youngster I did a lot of dancing which was my form of exercise which I absolutely loved. Being part of a dance school usually stops when you get to college age, so for years I haven’t done anything that I’ve enjoyed and seen results with. I literally dread going to gyms, even the classes I find it SO hard to get myself there. I have tried and tried. It got me down because I knew I wanted to exercise to keep healthy but I just didn’t enjoy anything and I felt so guilty! UNTIL I did my first at home session with Chris! I cannot tell you how different I feel in myself, just a few weeks in. I’m so much more toned, so much stronger, & I feel so proud of myself. I actually enjoy my sessions and I don’t clock watch (which I usually would do). I’ve now even gained the confidence to attend classes at the gym with Chris which usually has 6/7 of us participating, and really look forward to going. He always keeps a check on you when doing different exercises to ensure you’re doing it correctly, which you’d never get at a normal gym class. Everyone is lovely and it’s always a good laugh. If you have ever felt like me, try having Chris as your coach. You won’t regret it. He really does know his stuff, and pushes you to the greatest of your ability without being un realistic. He believes in you and makes you believe in yourself and that’s when you see results. May I add, a lovely, friendly, great person.

    Amy Bradley
    Beauty Salon Owner
  • I really enjoy training at The Alchemy. Chris is a fantastic trainer, very knowledgeable and professional. He offers a variety of sessions, tailored to meet individual needs.
    Its a great place to train with a great group of people, of all ages.
    I would highly recommend The Alchemy to anyone.

    Laura Dobie
    Nurse
  • Chris is great at pushing you but also keeping it at your own pace and tailoring exercises to what you want to achieve! Would highly recommend 😁💪

    Amy Dykins
  • Since starting at Alchemy my strength and knowledge has increased dramatically. I understand so much better how my body works and which excercise targets which muscle best. Chris feeds you all his knowledge all the way through the session. He never let’s you get comfortable, he understands what your goals are and helps you reach them. Before I started I had a lot of pain with my shoulders and neck I had a weak core and generally weak upper body. I can now do pull ups, press ups . My core is much stronger and because I am using the correct techniques I am suffering with alot less shoulder and neck pain. I recommend anyone from beginners to pro to go to Alchemy. The classes are fab, everyone that attends are very welcoming and works as a team through the sessions. It’s a brilliant gym to be a part of.

    Danielle Brown
  • I have never been to anywhere like it before, the classes are so inclusive there really is something for everyone.

    In the short time that I have been training, I have learnt so much. My mindset has completely changed and I feel so much more motivated.

    Chris really does take into account what you want to achieve and genuinely wants to help you reach your goals.

    I could not recommend The Alchemy enough!

    Ali Evans
    Insurance Broker
  • Absolutely fantastic place to train, not only has my running improved, but also picking up less injuries due to chris s knowledge and know how

    Chris’s support is always fantastic and answers questions you have outside of his time , he is happy to help and guide you, and always interested in how you’re getting on day to day

    Dave Rowley
    Landscape Gardener
  • As the ‘newbie’ of the group strength sessions – the physical results are yet to be seen; but I can assure you they’re coming. As a female who was always fairly confident (not necessarily competent!) in weight training, but had lost my mojo and grown somewhat complacent in my usual gym; the idea of group work certainly took me out of my comfort zone. But that’s exactly what I needed! Recommended to Chris by a friend, he couldn’t of been more welcoming – and checks in with you throughout the sessions. He’s that push I needed to find my focus and motivation again. Watch this space! Highly recommended

    Gemma Wilson
    Nurse
  • Chris is an amazing PT, he meets your needs and he will push you to do your best and to aim for your goals! Very professional and does everything step by step! Would 1000% recommend

    Alex Bojanowska
  • Amazing place to train. Great coach always pushing you to get the best out of your training. Lovely people to train alongside. Great atmosphere. Great value for money.

    Kim Locke
    Holistic Practioner
  • Only wish I’d been introduced to alchemy years ago
    The kids love Chris one to one sessions and my niggling back pain has gone after just 6 private training session. 👌👍💪

    Simon Bullen
    Ferrier
  • What a fantastic training sessions I have at The Alchemy….. Never been a fan of the gym or any form of exercise to be totally honest and was extremely apprehensive about starting but I was hooked from the 1st Training session! Chris was so patient and understood my initial worries about starting something I had zero experience in! I very quickly felt comfortable and loved my sessions…. Highly recommend….

    Paula Flitcroft
    Women's Boutique Owner
  • Chris is an amazing coach. He meets your needs and will push you to do your best and to aim your goals. Very professional and does everything step by step. Would 100% recommend.

    Alex Bojanowska
  • Great place to train. Main dude Chris is a great motivator and a top guy. Sessions are always a blast and get the blood pumping like nothing else. In peak physical fitness because of The Alchemy

    Joe Arcangelo
  • Started training @ the Alchemy in the last few months & I can’t put into words the difference it has made to my fitness levels & confidence when facing Hyrox themed sessions & track work!

    Chris (owner) supported me in qualifying for the world champs for Hyrox, a month or so into training!

    Atmosphere is epic & I’ve made some amazing friends who provide immense support & make you feel at ease

    Massive shout to the alchemy team for the warm welcome & to Chris for all the support…

    In for a big year!

    Natalie Crompton
  • I’ve been using Alchemy for a few months now and already feeling the benefit.
    I’ve added these sessions to my standard training, and also to develop my strength and conditioning in the winter months, off season for triathlon. The coached sessions push you out of your comfort zone but still in a safe controlled way. If Chris can see you struggling or knows of niggles he’s quick to guide to improve form and technique or recommend alternative exercises.
    Also a friendly inclusive bunch, both staff and fellow attendees.

    Chris Byrne