Legendary boxing trainer launches bootcamp to help ordinary people become next Joe Calzaghe

Now 66, the father and trainer of the legendary world champion also guided Gavin Rees and Enzo Maccarinelli to world title glory.

Every Sunday, he has been working with clients of a different kind: everyday men and women from across South Wales who have tired of gyms and modern methods of getting into shape.

Using many of his signature techniques, including the famous Rocky steps, where clients have to sprint up and down steep concrete steps 40 times, the bootcamp in Abercarn is proving a popular attraction.

Speaking about his So You Think You’re Tough? programme, Mr Calzaghe said it is something he looks forward to every week

He said: “I shout at them if they do it wrong. I’m like a sergeant major. They love it for some reason.

“It excites them. They want to come back again - I couldn’t believe it.

“From nothing, it can make people believe in themselves.

“It gets harder and harder and harder…they don’t overdo it. If it’s too simple, they won’t do it.

“The reward is massive. I feel like I’m a 40-year-old man.

“Come along and look. You will be a different person. Your life becomes pretty.”

Sian Gunney, 34, from Cardiff, who has lost a stone in four weeks attending the camp, said: “I nagged Enzo for a year to train me. We started one-to-ones and then he decided to launch Calzaghe Bootcamp.

“There’s no strict nutrition plan, no silly shakes. Just solid training.

“He trains us like we’re all Joe Calzaghes in the making, regardless of gender.

“He’s a world-class trainer. I leave feeling euphoric.”

Andrew Davies, youth entrepreneurship coordinator at Welsh Government, added: “Enzo is a great, motivational trainer who understands what it takes to get in top physical and mental shape.

“It's an excellent way of pushing your mind and body to the limit.”

The one-hour sessions, priced at £20 each, take place at at 12pm every Sunday at the Newbridge Boxing Club in Abercarn.