Why I Became a Personal Trainer

A Journey of Transformation

At 18 years old, standing 6 feet tall and weighing just 60 kilos, I wasn’t comfortable in my body. I felt invisible—socially, athletically, and even to myself. That discomfort was the spark that ignited my fitness journey. As I started training, I quickly gained muscle, reaching 80 kilos. The transformation didn’t just change my physique; it changed my life.

People began to notice me differently. I felt confident, more capable, and opportunities in American football emerged. That athletic improvement connected me with a bobsleigh athlete and opened doors I never imagined. Through consistent training, I didn’t just build muscle—I built a foundation of self-belief, leadership, and resilience.

But the truth is, even that transformation wasn’t enough to shield me from one of the hardest periods of my life.

Finding Fulfillment in the Darkness

There was a time when I felt extremely sad—perhaps not clinically depressed, but profoundly empty. For nearly a year, all I did was sleep, go to the gym, and play football. It felt like I was moving through life on autopilot, dragging this deep darkness with me. I thought something was broken inside me, and nothing seemed to change it.

What saved me wasn’t happiness. It wasn’t some magical “aha” moment or a sudden burst of motivation. It was a single decision: I don’t need to be happy to live a fulfilling life.

That realization changed everything. I kept going to the gym, kept playing football, kept seeing my friends. Not because I wanted to, not because it felt good, but because it was the right thing to do. Over time, I discovered that even when the darkness didn’t go away, I could still make progress. I could still live a meaningful life.

That experience shaped how I see fitness—and life. Sometimes, you don’t feel like doing it. Sometimes, you might never feel like doing it. But the act of showing up, of putting one foot in front of the other, is what builds resilience, strength, and ultimately, fulfillment.

Why I Train Others

I’ve never forgotten that feeling of emptiness, and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. One of the most important things I’ve learned is that the right support—someone who listens, someone who believes in you—can make all the difference. That’s why I became a personal trainer.

When I work with clients, it’s not just about reps and sets or counting calories. It’s about creating moments. I want every session to be the best part of their day, a time when they feel seen, heard, and supported. Even when I don’t have the energy, I try, because I know how much those moments can mean to someone who’s struggling.

Fitness is one of the best tools I’ve found for creating those positive moments. It’s not just about physical health; it’s about building mental and emotional resilience. It’s about showing people that even when they don’t feel like it, they can still show up and make progress.

The Challenges of Leadership

Even now, as a head coach, a business owner, and an award-winning trainer, I often don’t feel like a leader. I’ve always imagined there would be a moment when it clicks, when I finally “arrive” as a leader. But the truth is, leadership is just like fitness—you don’t wait until you’re ready; you choose to step up, day after day.

Many of my clients feel the same way about starting their fitness journey. They’re waiting for the right moment, the perfect circumstances. But I tell them what I’ve learned: the right moment is now. You don’t need to feel ready to take the first step. You just need to start.

A Commitment to Help Everyone

I’ve always struggled with the idea of niching down in personal training. Every mentor tells me to focus on one group—athletes, beginners, older adults—but I can’t. I want to help as many people as possible.

In my career, I’ve worked with athletes, clients with injuries, individuals managing chronic conditions, and those chasing weight loss or muscle gain. I tailor my approach to each person, not just their goals but their lives. For me, it’s not about fitting clients into a pre-defined system; it’s about building a system that fits them.

Yes, it’s challenging, and yes, it might make marketing harder. But it’s worth it. The results speak for themselves.

Why This Matters to Me

My ultimate goal is to create a ripple effect of positive change. I want to build a business that transforms lives and empowers others to do the same. Whether it’s helping a client stand taller and feel more confident or mentoring other trainers to succeed, I want to leave a lasting impact.

The truth is, I still carry that darkness with me. But I don’t let it define me. Instead, it drives me. It reminds me why I show up every day, why I pour my energy into helping others. Fitness is the tool I’ve chosen, but the goal is so much bigger. I want to inspire others to see their potential, to believe they can overcome, and to know they are never alone.

If I can help even one person feel stronger, more capable, and more alive, then I know I’m on the right path.