Tell us about your role at C-LIFE and what is your favourite part of your job?
I’ve been at CLife for about 5 years, and I’ve worked as a Personal Trainer, Strength & Conditioning Coach, Class Instructor, as well as working on the gym floor and reception.
My favourite part of the job is meeting people on the gym floor, helping them with 1-2 useful tips, and seeing them again in a few months with their training improved or injuries no longer an issue.
How did you get into the health and fitness industry and what your current full-time job role involves?
I had always been a sporty kid growing up, which lead to me completing my Exercise & Sport Science degree at Sydney Uni. I knew I wanted some experience whilst I was studying, so I applied to work at CLife – and haven’t looked back since.
I ended up completing a master’s in public health in 2020, which was either fortunate or unfortunate timing, depending on how you look at it.
My full-time role is with AUS-active, the peak body for the Fitness & Pilates industry. I speak with university lecturers, politicians, educators, insurance companies and leaders in the fitness industry to professionalize the industry and provide more benefits to our members. You’ll see AUS-active stickers around the gym, as CLife have been an AUS-active member for many years.
What’s your favourite exercise?
My favourite exercise would have to be the hip thrust – your hips can never be too strong!
What’s your PB in that exercise?
Last time I checked, I could do about 320kg for a single rep. That made me sore for about 3 days!
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
I like to spend most of my free time with my partner, friends, and family. I like to see a lot of stand-up comedy shows, concerts and talks. When I’m not sitting down in my free time, I try to organize hikes, tennis, basketball, or some other sport with my friends – not that I’m any good.
If you could be a superhero or celebrity, who would you be and why?
My answer would be Martin Scorsese, the film director. Getting to work with talented actors and working creatively whilst keeping things organized would be a great experience.
What advice can you give to those who are just starting exercise or starting to get back into exercise?
- Keep it simple.
The more complicated you make your program, the harder it is to know why you have improved. Keeping your exercise selection simple (but effective) and making small changes each session is a lot more rewarding.
- Do more than last time.
All you must do when coming to the gym is do slightly more than last time. That could be a simple as; 2kg more on the barbell, 1 extra rep, or a few more minutes on the bike. Keep your improvements small, manageable, and consistent.
- Focus on strength.
Incorporating exercises that include more muscle mass, more weight, and more demands on your balance means you’re doing more work. Focusing on strength exercises won’t make you as hungry, and it makes every other thing you do in and out of the gym easier.
What made you decide to be a PT?
I’ve always enjoyed helping people. However, we are all different, so finding ways to cue, coach or correct each person is the part of being a PT that makes it interesting. The changes I can help facilitate with a client will improve their confidence, reduce their risk of injury and chronic disease, and give them a healthy hobby that they can stick to for life – that’s why I am a PT.
