JAMES CROSSLEY, AKA HUNTER THE GLADIATOR
ABOUT JAMES
James shot to fame as Hunter in the hugely popular 1990s game show ‘Gladiators’.
He’s spent 20 years as a personal trainer, educating clients on health, fitness, and nutrition. But after realising during lockdown that he couldn’t touch his toes — despite his high level of fitness — James discovered a passion for yoga. He’s now created a FitAt40+ video, available on Amazon and Vimeo, to promote the benefits of this ancient form of exercise to the over-40s.
James (47) is equally passionate about his two Bulldogs, five-year-old Smudge and three-year-old Lyttle, who he describes as “great for exercise, company, and cuddles.”
Q
You credit Bulldogs Smudge and Lyttle with improving your life and well-being — in what way?
“They are fantastic company; real love balls. Walking them is great exercise and provides accountability. They sense moods and if I’m down, they will come over for a cuddle. Lyttle likes to lie on top of me on the sofa, which is also a great way to keep warm. They are the perfect guests when I’m practising my gong baths (an ancient type of sound therapy).” Q
What is it about Bulldogs that appeals to you?
“I love their faces and I think I always did as a child. They do have health issues so insurance is a must. Smudge had both her cruciate ligaments done a few years ago and on a hot day needs to be in air-conditioning. Lyttle is about to have one of her cruciates fixed, and both have a small amount of arthritis. “They are happy dogs, though, and have a very good life — I make sure any issues are sorted straight away.” Q How do you juggle dog ownership with your busy life as a celebrity fitness instructor, and TV commitments, such as your recent role on Channel 4’s ‘The Circle’?
“‘The Circle’ was filmed last year over four weeks and I took the dogs with me.
They had a walker three times a day and were well looked after. I have had to build a network of helpers if I’m not around.” Q What are your plans for the future now you have gained a yoga qualification — doga next, perhaps? “I’m teaching yoga and I’m a Gong Master, so I run sound baths and workshops. I’m also a strength and conditioning coach so run workshops and do talks around the UK. Plus, I have just launched james cross ley coaching. com, which is an online training app. I’m hoping I will get a chance to book a doggy holiday with Smudge and Lyttle soon!” Q Tell us a bit about Smudge and Lyttle’s personalities… “Smudge is stubborn and wants her own way all the time — she is the queen! She loves company and follows me everywhere, even sitting outside the bathroom when I have a bath. I would let her sleep in the bedroom as it’s hard to get her out, but she is a terrible snorer! Lyttle is much sweeter. She likes people she knows and is a real cuddle monster. She follows Smudge everywhere; they are super cute together.”