At WFE, we’re honored to support incredible women like Julie on their journey into the fitness industry. Julie’s story is nothing short of inspiring—after battling multiple sclerosis for over a decade and rediscovering her strength through fitness, she’s now using her journey to help other women transform their lives.

Having completed her Certificate III in Fitness and currently studying for her Certificate IV, Julie is already working in the industry as a trainer at the very gym where her journey began. She’s passionate about creating a safe, supportive space for women to grow stronger, build confidence, and achieve their goals.

In this interview, Julie shares her personal story, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and the moments that remind her why she loves what she does. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the life-changing impact of pursuing a career you’re truly passionate about.

Can you share a bit about your story? What led you to study Certificate III and IV in Fitness?

I have been battling multiple sclerosis for 13yrs & just over 16months ago I was really struggling. Walking was hard, I would fall daily, MS was taking over & I had no energy to fight back.

I found a ladies only gym in hopes to give fitness a try, I wanted my strength back. I walked into that gym nervous that I would be judged, thinking what If I fall over ? What if I drop things? By week two I was feeling a change in my body. I wasn’t so tired, I was getting stronger. 16months on I’m now a trainer at the same ladies gym. Helping other ladies with their life challenges.

What was the most valuable thing you learned during your studies, and how has/will it helped you in your career?

Marketing & feedback, I have used the things I’ve learnt about marketing & feedback at my workplace.

How did it feel when you landed your first role in the Fitness Industry?

Excited but nervous at the same time, feelings of what if I fail, what if they don’t like me as a trainer. After a few weeks I settled in nicely & had such a great bond with all the ladies I’ve been training. I’m known as the tough trainer but they love the push. I now tell myself you have to fail before you succeed, that’s how we learn.

What does a typical day in your life as a trainer look like?

I get up, take the kids to school, head into the gym and run ladies only classes for women wanting a safe space to train and feel comfortable, somewhere they can bring their kids & train with no judgement.

What’s the most rewarding part of working in the fitness industry and helping other women achieve their goals?

Before & after photos. The smile on clients faces when they have the confidence to take a photo of they fit into that nice dress. They finally love themselves & want to show off that figure they have worked so hard on.

What challenges did you face during your studies or early in your career, and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge I’ve faced is finding time to look after myself and train myself. You focus mainly on your clients and time slips away and you start to feel flat. I’ve now moved some classes around so that I have time to train.

What advice would you give to women who are thinking about studying Certificate III or IV in Fitness but are unsure if it’s the right path for them?

Find a group of ladies to train with, hear their stories, see how much exercise changes their lives & yours. If you find joy then studying fitness is right for you . Believe in yourself & you will achieve great things.

How has working in the fitness industry changed your life, both personally and professionally?

I’ve finally found my purpose in life, what I’m good at. I spent years not knowing what I wanted to do for a career, nothing ever excited me until I started to train myself & realised fitness was it. Helping other ladies like me brings me so much joy.

What’s a memorable moment or client success story that made you realize you’re in the right career?

My clients tell me daily how much they love me and how much I’ve changed their lives. They book in for classes they see I’m teaching.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self before starting this journey, what would it be?

Never let the fear of striking out keep you from greatness. Love yourself, you are strong, brave & beautiful.

If you’re inspired by Julie’s story and ready to start your own journey in the fitness industry, now is the time to take that first step. With our Certificate III and IV in Fitness, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills to build a fulfilling career while empowering others to achieve their goals.

Your future in fitness could be just one decision away—why not make it today? 💪