X8 emerges from a rich history as a professional athlete

and a distinguished role operating within the esteemed

Royal Marines. This evolution harnesses insights gained

from a dynamic blend of high-performance athleticism

and the meticulous world of injury prevention,

rehabilitation and recovery.

I'm Carl, and I proudly introduce X8 Health. The framework conceived at X8 has been meticulously developed and refined since 2000, marked by international and professional rugby. This evolution continued through my dedicated tenure in the Royal Marines, encompassing roles as a Physical Training Instructor and subsequently, an Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor.

Throughout the years, a consistent dedication to upholding peak fitness and performance has been my hallmark. Whether it was as a professional rugby player for Worcester Warriors and Bristol Bears (previously Shoguns) or during operations in distant theatres like Iraq and Afghanistan with the Royal Marines. This journey was marked by challenges, including overcoming multiple spinal fractures. Recognising the pivotal role of rehabilitation, recovery, and, ultimately, optimal performance, emerged as a cornerstone in preserving overall well-being.

In 2008, the attainment of the title of Physical Training Instructor (PTI) enriched my expertise in realms spanning from strength and conditioning to architecting regimens for ultra-endurance athletes, speed aficionados, and power training. It was during this phase that my passion for injury rehabilitation and peak performance began to burgeon. By 2012, the role of an Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor (ERI) within the Marines beckoned, heralding the next chapter in this journey.

As an ERI, I have consistently collaborated within a diverse medical team consisting of GPs, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatrists, and psychologists. Together, our mission has been to diagnose, treat, guide recovery, and provide comprehensive training for individuals dealing with a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal injuries and pathological conditions. This encompasses a range of challenges, including but not limited to complex trauma such as amputations, ACL reconstructions, hip and knee replacements, as well as addressing chronic and acute neck and back pain, alongside considerations for mental well-being.

Evidently, a significant discrepancy surfaced in the quality of care within the Marines and professional sports in comparison to the realms of the NHS and private sector. The realisation dawned that achieving optimal outcomes for individuals—whether recuperating from knee surgery or priming for a gruelling 100km race—hinges on the pivotal aspects of continuity and consistency provided by therapists or trainers. These attributes prove elusive for many; some may consult a physiotherapist for injuries, a sports therapist for post-training recovery, a chiropractor for adjustments, and a personal trainer for overall fitness. This fragmented approach exacts not only a financial toll but also dilutes the gold standard of unwavering continuity and consistency.

Identifying this void in my skill set, I embarked on a comprehensive journey, pursuing an integrated master's in Osteopathic Medicine over a span of six years starting in 2017 while serving in the Marines. This pursuit completed the final piece of the puzzle, culminating in X8 Health—a comprehensive destination encompassing every facet of health and well-being. From diagnosis to treatment, training to recovery, all orchestrated by a singular specialist.

X8 prides itself in delivering the highest level of treatment, encompassed with a strong evidence based practise studied at the highest level, for all patients from all aspects of life.