Meet the fitness enthusiast changing lives through personal training

"I always wanted to be in shape and be able to move my body in more ways, and wanting to get into the fitness industry was an epiphany moment when I was about 14 or 15," explained Angus.

“From there, I visited a boxing gym and saw the trainers doing their thing in an environment that appealed to me, and I knew it was something I wanted to do."

While researching how to get qualified, Angus found TAFE Queensland's Certificate III in Fitness (SIS30321) and was drawn to the course's structure. Sealing his decision to enrol was the encouragement from professional trainers in the industry about the course.

"Hearing the positive experiences that the trainers at the boxing gym had when they studied the same course made my decision to study with TAFE Queensland an easy one. Plus, the study units offered more value than other places I looked into," he said.

Studying at TAFE Queensland's South Bank campus, Angus' classroom was an industry-standard fitness centre featuring high-end equipment and facilities that enhanced his training and education.

"I was surprised at how well the facilities were equipped when I first walked in. Not only did it have a gym; it also had a fitness hall, basketball court, a mezzanine area with weights, and cardio equipment."

"It felt like learning in an institution run by fitness professional teachers who know what they're doing and how to train you to get the best out of you."

Training Angus and his classmates were his knowledgeable teachers who brought decades of industry experience to the classroom, giving him the knowledge and skills in fitness program instruction, providing healthy eating information and instructing group exercise classes.

"Andrew Pilgrim, Weston Longden and Steve Franks were way more helpful than I could have ever anticipated. They ensured we stayed on track, encouraged us, supported our learning with the best possible resources and were always available to advise us.

"Having a teacher who knows what they’re doing, has industry experience, and has been working in the industry for a long time solidified my love for studying."

Angus' teachers also brought the industry into the classroom, with gym owners and trainers from around Brisbane visiting and sharing their fitness industry journey.

"The biggest impact for me was visiting gyms in the area. It was terrific to speak with owners, hear their philosophies on fitness, what they offer clients, where you can fit in and what kind of capacity you can work in."

Being around like-minded classmates also enhanced Angus' learning, motivating him to continue his studies by enrolling in the Certificate IV in Fitness (SIS40221).

"My class was more of a community where everyone helped each other. Studying alongside people on the same page as you, whom you can discuss the fitness industry with, made coming in so good."

The certificate IV taught Angus the specialised skills and knowledge to instruct personal training programs, group personal training, and the fundamentals of operating a personal training business, which resulted in a job as a Personal Trainer at Stones Corner Health and Fitness.

"Originally, my class and I came here for an industry visit and thought 'I'd love to work here,' but I didn't think any jobs open by the time I finished studying."

"After discussing with my teacher that I was seeking a job in the industry, he told me that Stones Corner Health and Fitness was hiring, so I applied. And now I work here – it's a dream come true."

As a personal trainer, Angus relishes bringing his knowledge and skills to work daily to help his clients with their fitness journey.

"I meet clients, build strong relationships, and train them using the skills I learnt from TAFE Queensland. I get to know them, build trust, and help them to reach their fitness goals. A by-product of this is I'm learning to be a better trainer every day."

TAFE Queensland helped Angus into the career of his dreams, and he recommends that anyone wanting to turn their passion for fitness follow his lead.

"If you're passionate and willing to put in the effort, invest in your education. Everyone can find success, and TAFE Queensland made me feel empowered.”

"Training did a lot for me, taught me so much and got me the job I wanted where I wanted, doing what I love, that I'm proud of," concluded Angus.