MIDLIFE CRISIS? MORE LIKE MIDLIFE RESET

How journalist Guy Adams went from dad bod to gym god - and the plan that made it possible

- 

Guy Adams, 47, from Monmouthshire, Wales, is no stranger to deadlines, tough investigative assignments, a lack of sleep and the occasional takeaway dinner. But in September 2025 the journalist was tasked with a different kind of challenge: transforming his body, fitness, and mindset.

The goal wasn't just aesthetics - it was energy, confidence, and reclaiming control over his health. All courtesy of a challenge thrown down by his newspaper editor. "We'd seen the amazing transformation Sacha Baron Cohen underwent to appear on the cover of Men's Fitness," says Guy. "My editor asked, 'could any man really go from 'dad bod' to cover model fit in just a few months?' It was the kind of question that's more of a request from editor to investigative reporter - if it can be done, you're the man to find out."

Getting started: The first conversation

To meet the demands of the challenge Guy enlisted personal trainer Jason Smith (instagram.com/fitinmidlife), who specialises in transforming the fitness levels and physiques of men in midlife.

Jason's philosophy is simple but effective: fitness must fit into your life, not compete with it. “To begin with I need to understand why a client wants to change, their key goals, their lifestyle, family and work commitments, travel, past experiences, and even what they enjoy,” he explains.

Guy's life posed particular challenges. He splits his time between London, with access to a fully equipped gym, and his home in Wales, where equipment is limited. Jason knew any programme had to be flexible, effective, and adaptable across locations.