What were you doing prior to working in the fitness industry?
I was an interpreter/translator and also worked as a commercial chef specialising in dietary requirements.
Where are you working now and what is your role?
As a trainer at Mace Fitness (http://www.macefitness.com)
Why did you decide on a career in the fitness industry?
After pursuing my dream to become a qualified chef and having gained several years of industry experience in top kitchens across the country, I was ready to take on the next challenge in my life and transition to a career in fitness.
I have always had a keen interest in both health and fitness since a young age, having been a competitive diver from my teens through to college. Whilst my training as a chef provided an introduction to dietary requirements and nutrition, the next logical progression was to gain a greater understanding of the functional attributes of the human body.
This led me to AFA and my Certificate III & IV in Fitness to become a personal trainer. I am consistently seeking new challenges and have set goals to pursue further studies in the field of nutrition and exercise science.
How have you found the transition between studying and working?
Fortunately, I was able to secure work experience with Mace Fitness during my studies, and they offered the trainer role immediately after completing my coursework component.
Because I consistently had the opportunity to interact with clients and apply my learnings in a real-world context, the transition between studying and working has been fairly smooth. I cannot stress enough how important it is for students to try and find a work experience provider where you are given the opportunity to engage in both administrative and practical work.
What do you love most about working in fitness?
From an industry perspective, I love that established techniques and solutions are constantly challenged, and as a consequence, we must keep evolving. The community itself is also extremely positive and engaging.
I also love working with people and helping them better understand and condition their bodies and mind (and seeing the tangible results that follow!). Whether it be that grandparent who wants the strength and flexibility to pick up their grandchild without feeling those niggling aches and pains, or the office worker looking to increase their form and stamina in order to run a half marathon.
Why did you choose AFA to assist you to become qualified?
I started my research into the industry by training with reputable PTs and visited various providers of the course. After several PT sessions with my current mentor and other AFA alumni, I decided to take the same path as my mentors. Ultimately, it’s AFA’s exceptional industry reputation, as well as their updated curriculums, and their alumni, which lead me to choosing AFA as my course provider.
If you could give someone considering a career in fitness some advice, what would it be?
Do your homework and find a mentor! Although there are a lot of amazing things about a career in fitness (energetic atmosphere, client interaction, constantly evolving, etc.), it is also important to recognise that this is an industry where you will only get as much as you put in.
