Frequently Asked Questions

About Metabolic Health

What is metabolic health?

Metabolic health refers to the overall efficiency of your body’s metabolic processes, chemical reactions that maintain life by converting food into energy, storing and using that energy, and managing essential substances like glucose and hormones. Good metabolic health is characterised by stable blood sugar levels, balanced hormones and consistent energy levels.

How is metabolic health measured?

At Combe Grove, metabolic health is evaluated using a variety of tests, including blood tests, HbA1C tests, blood pressure checks, glucose monitoring, and the Accuniq composition analyser. Blood tests offer insight into glucose levels and a full cholesterol profile, including HDL good cholesterol and LDL bad cholesterol.

Why is metabolic health important?

Metabolic health is the cornerstone of overall wellbeing. It ensures that your body efficiently processes nutrients, maintains healthy hormone levels, and regulates glucose. Improving metabolic health not only prevents inflammation related illnesses but also enhances your quality of life and promotes long-term vitality.

What is the difference between Metabolic Health and Metabolism?

Metabolism refers to the biochemical processes that provide energy for the body to function. Metabolic health summarises how well these processes are functioning in order to maintain balance and protect health.

Metabolism is measured by Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). BMR tells us how much energy we burn at rest. In contrast Metabolic Health is measured by markers such as blood glucose levels and blood pressure.

Our individual metabolism is determined by our age, gender and level of muscle mass and physical activity. The Five Roots, nutrition, movement, sleep, environment and mindset influence our Metabolic Health.

Metabolic Health Programmes at Combe Grove

Who are the programmes for?

The programmes are designed for individuals looking to improve their health and wellbeing, make sustainable lifestyle changes, or seek support for specific health challenges like prediabetes or menopause. The natural surroundings provide a nurturing environment for those looking to reconnect with nature while focusing on their health.

Why choose Combe Grove?

The retreats are built around the Five Roots of Metabolic Health, Nutrition, Movement, Sleep, Mindset, and Environment. These elements shape every aspect of your stay, from the nutritious meals to the variety of activities designed to inspire positive change. A year of online support, including consultations, recipes, and fitness tips, is provided to guide you after your retreat. Clients are also invited to enjoy a one year membership at The Club, which includes access to the gym, classes, treatments and a seasonal menu.

What does a typical day look like?

7.30am to 9.30am Health Check & Accuniq Analysis
9.30am to 10.30am Breakfast
10.45am to 12.30pm Five Roots Workshop
12.45pm to 1.30pm Lunch
1.45pm to 2.00pm Nature Walk
2.00pm to 4.30pm Personal Consultation & Relaxation Time
5.15pm to 6.15pm Dinner
7.30pm to 8.30pm Creative Workshop

Is everything included in the price?

Yes, your stay includes accommodation, meals, use of facilities, activities and workshops. You also receive a nutritional consultation, massage and a treatment. Additional treatments can be purchased separately.

Room Amenities

Rooms come equipped with towels, robes, a kettle, slippers, a selection of Pukka Teas and all natural toiletries. Additionally, Dyson hairdryers and Neal’s Yard products are provided for your convenience.

Client Policy

You can bring a guest, such as a life partner, for an additional £600, though they will not participate in workshops or consultations.

Dietary Requirements

Combe Grove caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, dairy free and sugar conscious. Allergies and intolerances should be noted in your Health Declaration Form.

Pets and Alcohol Policy

Pets are not allowed on the Retreat but are welcome at the Map Room café. The Estate maintains a no alcohol policy to align with its focus on health and wellbeing.

Check In & Check Out Times

Check In on Monday between 10am and 12pm
Check Out on Sunday at 9am

What to Bring

Pack comfortable activewear, sturdy walking boots, waterproofs and a notepad. Toiletries are provided, but you may bring any additional personal items you prefer. A full packing list is provided before arrival.

Transportation

For sustainable travel, the nearest train station is Bath Spa, and Combe Grove provides a mini bus service from the station. Alternatively, clients can drive and park on site.

Membership at Combe Grove

Club Hours

Monday to Friday 6.30am to 8.00pm
Saturday and Sunday 8.00am to 7.00pm
Bank Holidays 8.00am to 7.00pm

Pool Hours

Monday to Friday 6.30am to 7.30pm
Weekends & Bank Holidays 8.00am to 6.30pm

Booking Classes

Classes can be booked through the Combe Grove App, via the website, or by contacting reception.

Booking Tours

You can arrange a tour of Combe Grove’s facilities via the website, email, or by calling the team directly.

Membership Payment Plans

Memberships require a 12 month commitment and can be paid upfront or in monthly instalments via direct debit.

Pool Dimensions

Indoor Pool 16.6m long, 7m wide, 1.5m deep
Outdoor Pool 12m long, 4m wide

Glossary of Common Terms

Homeostasis

A state of balance among all the body systems needed for the body to survive and function. To maintain homeostasis the body is constantly working to adjust to changing conditions. Examples of homeostasis include blood glucose control and  body temperature.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas which is important in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and protein. Insulin has a critical role in regulating blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells for energy or storage.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone produced in the pineal gland in the brain which regulates the sleep-wake cycle by promoting sleep in response to darkness

Circadian rhythm

The body’s natural 24 hour cycle of physical, mental and behavioural changes. Light and dark has the greatest impact on circadian rhythm but it can also be affecting by what and when we eat, movement, stress and our environment. For optimal health we need to align our daily habits with our circadian rhythm.