The Gym
Vortex Performance Academy is a purpose-built gym facility in Chester designed to cater to both elite athletes and everyday fitness enthusiasts. Our mission is to create a performance-focused but inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
We’re home to a community of driven individuals – some compete at the highest levels, others simply want to train smarter, move better, and feel great.
Meet the Team
Our expert coaching and support staff are passionate, experienced, and here to help you perform at your best.
Paul Reed
Managing Director and Head of Performance
Matt Macaulay
Head of Youth Performance & Personal Trainer
Matt Macaulay is a dedicated sports performance professional with a diverse and accomplished athletic background. As a former Great Britain American Football athlete, Matt transitioned to combat sports and now competes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His commitment to a holistic approach led him to earn Yoga Instructor credentials from the Alchemy Yoga & Meditation Centre in Bali, reinforcing his belief in the integration of mental and physical conditioning.
In his role as Head of Youth Performance at Athlete Factory, Matt is dedicated to coaching individuals seeking meaningful lifestyle changes and athletes aiming to elevate their performance. His coaching philosophy is rooted in building resilience, fostering adaptability, and thriving under challenging conditions, empowering athletes to consistently perform at their best.
Marcus Unwin
Personal Trainer
As a coach at Vortex Performance Academy, Marcus Unwin combines academic expertise with practical experience to deliver results-driven coaching. Marcus holds an undergraduate degree in Sports Science and a Masters in Strength and Conditioning, and has worked with professional athletes across sports such as football, combat sports, netball, basketball, rugby, and athletics. Alongside his in-person training, Marcus also provides online coaching, specialising in building muscle and strength while helping clients improve their body composition through tailored, evidence-based programs.
Marcus's passion for sport and fitness is matched by his commitment to helping people unlock their full potential. His coaching style blends structured, progressive programming with a flexible and supportive approach, ensuring training is effective, sustainable, and enjoyable. Whether Marcus is guiding a competitive athlete toward peak performance or supporting someone on their personal fitness journey, his goal is to equip every client with the tools, confidence, and mindset they need to achieve lasting results.
Ashley Murphy
Personal Trainer
With over a decade of experience as a personal trainer, Ash Murphy has had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients — from complete beginners to seasoned athletes. Ash's goal is simple: to help people feel better, move better, and become the best version of themselves, whatever that looks like for them.
Ash originally qualified as a personal trainer in London under Olympic gold medallist Daley Thompson, an experience that shaped his early career and gave a real passion for helping others through fitness.
Ash's background in sport includes football, rugby, and boxing, and he brings that same energy and discipline into every session. Ash is a qualified boxing coach and has spent time training amateur boxers in a gym environment — something that still influences the way he approachs pad work and fitness today.
Whether you’re looking to improve performance, build confidence, or simply feel stronger day to day, Ash has the tools and experience to support your journey.