At WFE, we’re always inspired by leaders who are making waves in the fitness industry, and Sonal, the owner of Triple Five Fitness in Bentleigh, Melbourne, is no exception.

With a background in nursing and midwifery, Sonal has dedicated her career to supporting women’s health during some of the most pivotal moments in their lives. This passion led her to take over Triple Five Fitness, transforming it into a thriving women’s wellness club and reformer studio that now serves over 450 members.

Sonal’s vision extends far beyond physical fitness—her mission is to create a safe and empowering space where women can build strength, confidence, and community. In this interview, she shares her journey, the challenges she’s overcome, and her advice for women aspiring to make an impact in the fitness industry.

What is your business name and location?

Triple Five Fitness, Bentleigh, Melbourne, Victoria

How many clients do you have and what services do you offer?

450+ Members, Women's Wellness Club | Gym and Reformer Studio.

Can you tell us a bit about your journey—what inspired you to become a personal trainer, especially in women’s health?

Although I’m not a personal trainer myself, my journey into the fitness industry was deeply inspired by my background as a nurse and midwife. For over six years, I’ve worked closely with women during some of the most transformative periods of their lives—whether it was childbirth, recovery, or navigating health challenges. This experience instilled in me a profound appreciation for women’s resilience and the importance of supporting them holistically.

When I had the opportunity to take over Triple Five Fitness, I saw it as a chance to extend my passion for women’s health into a new realm. I wanted to create a space where women of all ages and fitness levels could feel seen, supported, and empowered to prioritize their well-being. Fitness isn’t just about physical strength—it’s about mental clarity, confidence, and community. I’ve worked to shape Triple Five Fitness into more than just a gym; it’s a sanctuary where women can challenge themselves, connect, and grow stronger inside and out.

What’s the most rewarding part of your career as a female-specific personal trainer?

The most rewarding part of my career as the owner of a women’s-only gym is witnessing the transformation and empowerment of our members. As someone with a background in nursing and midwifery, I’ve always been passionate about women’s health, and now I get to support their journeys in a different but equally impactful way.

Seeing women step into Triple Five Fitness—sometimes nervous or unsure—and gradually grow stronger, more confident, and more connected to themselves and others is incredibly fulfilling. Whether it’s celebrating someone’s first push-up, watching friendships form in classes, or hearing how the gym has positively impacted someone’s life, those moments remind me why we do what we do.

Were there any challenges you faced as a woman in the fitness industry, and how did you overcome them?

As a female business owner in the fitness industry, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges.navigating the male-dominated side of the fitness industry, especially when dealing with external parties such as suppliers, contractors, or service providers. At times, I’ve had to assert myself and prove my capability in situations where I felt underestimated. Staying true to my vision for Triple Five and showing up with confidence and professionalism has been key to overcoming these moments.

Despite these challenges, I see them as opportunities to grow and to pave the way for other women in the industry. I’m proud to create a space that celebrates women and supports their strength, both in and outside the gym. It’s a reminder that our voices matter, and our impact is worth every bit of the effort.

What advice would you give to women considering a career in fitness but feel uncertain about taking the first step?

For women considering a career in fitness, my advice is simple: just start. You don’t need to have it all figured out—what matters is taking the first step, whether it’s studying, shadowing a mentor, or joining a supportive community. The fitness industry needs more women to create inclusive spaces and address unique health challenges. Women face higher rates of inactivity, mental health conditions, and issues like osteoporosis, all of which fitness can help combat. By joining this industry, you’re not just leading workouts—you’re empowering others, inspiring confidence, and building healthier communities. Take the leap; the impact you’ll make is invaluable.

Some statistics to consider:

Around 42% of women globally don’t meet the minimum recommended physical activity levels, according to the World Health Organization.

Women are twice as likely as men to suffer from mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, where exercise is proven to be an effective management tool.

Nearly 1 in 3 Australian women aged 50+ have osteoporosis or low bone density—a condition that strength and mobility training can help manage and prevent.

These numbers highlight a gap where passionate, knowledgeable women can make a difference. Representation matters, and seeing women thriving in the fitness industry can inspire others to prioritize their health and well-being.

How do you stay motivated and maintain your passion for empowering other women through fitness?

Staying motivated comes naturally when I see the impact fitness has on the lives of women in our community. Whether it’s a member conquering her first push-up, returning to fitness after childbirth, or finding her confidence through movement, those moments fuel my passion. I also stay inspired by constantly learning—exploring wellness trends, engaging in personal growth, and collaborating with my amazing team.

What’s one moment in your career that made you step back and think, “Wow, I’m really making a difference”?

One moment that truly made me step back and think, “Wow, I’m really making a difference,” was seeing a member return to fitness after overcoming significant personal challenges and crediting our community for her newfound strength and confidence. It’s in those small, everyday moments—when I see members coming in on their lunch breaks, not because they have to, but because they want to be at the club, connecting and thriving—that I realize the positive impact we’re making. It’s a reminder that Triple Five Fitness isn’t just a gym; it’s a space where women choose to feel strong, supported, and empowered.

How do you tailor your approach to meet the unique needs of female clients, and why is this important?

At Triple Five Fitness, we focus on understanding the diverse needs and goals of our female members, creating an inclusive and supportive environment that fosters confidence and growth. We offer a one-stop shop for all types of workouts, including strength training, Pilates, group classes, group personal training, and one-on-one sessions. This variety ensures that we cater to the different phases of women’s lives and their preferences. At Triple Five Fitness, we recognize that these fluctuations are normal and aim to create a supportive environment where women can adapt their workouts to their energy levels throughout their cycles.

What do you think is the most important quality for a successful personal trainer to have?

The most important quality for a successful personal trainer, especially in the context of women’s fitness, is empathy. Understanding and relating to the unique experiences, challenges, and aspirations of clients is crucial for building strong relationships and fostering a supportive environment.

Empathy allows our incredible personal trainers to connect with their clients on a deeper level, making it easier to recognize their individual needs, goals, and motivations. This understanding helps trainers tailor their approach, ensuring that workouts are not only effective but also enjoyable and aligned with each client's lifestyle and preferences.

If you could go back and give one piece of advice to yourself at the start of your journey, what would it be?

If I could go back and give one piece of advice to myself at the start of my journey, it would be to embrace the learning process and not be afraid to make mistakes. Transitioning from a nurse and midwife to a business owner in the fitness industry was a significant shift, and I quickly realized that each challenge I faced was an opportunity for growth.

I would remind myself to be patient and trust in the process. Building a brand and a community takes time, and it's essential to celebrate small victories along the way. I’d encourage myself to seek mentorship and surround myself with supportive individuals who uplift and inspire me. Networking and building relationships with other women in the industry can provide invaluable insights and foster a sense of community that is essential for success.

What book and podcasts would you recommend every trainer should read or listen to? Are there any particular coaches/influencers or experts that you recommend people follow?

I highly recommend the following books and podcasts that provide valuable insights into fitness, women's health, and personal development for everyone!

• Podcasts:

Women's Fitness Podcast by Dani and Mish – This podcast covers various aspects of fitness, health, and well-being, providing insights and advice for women looking to enhance their fitness journey.

Well Fed Women – This podcast offers a holistic approach to women's health and nutrition, featuring discussions on body image, intuitive eating, and self-care.

Balance365 – Focused on sustainable lifestyle changes, this podcast helps women find balance in their health and wellness journeys without restrictive dieting.

• Books:

Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins – While not exclusively for women, this book focuses on mindset and personal development, empowering readers to take control of their lives and achieve their goals.

• Instagram Coaches:

@jasmcnairfitness – A fitness coach dedicated to empowering women through strength training and holistic health.

@jessiemgolden – An advocate for body positivity and holistic wellness, sharing insights on fitness and self-love.

@nude_nutritionist – A nutritionist focusing on intuitive eating and holistic health, offering valuable tips and inspiration for healthy living.

These recommendations will support female trainers and clients in their pursuit of holistic health and well-being.

What CEC course/s do you recommend every PT should do?

When it comes to women's health and fitness education, choosing the right course provider is crucial for personal trainers who want to specialize in this area. Women’s Fitness Education stands out as a leading resource, offering comprehensive and tailored courses specifically designed for the unique needs of female clients. Their curriculum addresses key aspects of women’s health, including pre and postnatal exercise, pelvic floor and core rehabilitation, menopause, and body image issues. By focusing solely on women's health education, they equip trainers with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective support and empowerment to women throughout their fitness journeys.

If you’re motivated by Sonal’s journey and want to create your own impact in the fitness industry, there’s no better time to start. With our Certificate III and IV in Fitness programs and specialized women’s health courses, you’ll be equipped to lead and inspire in a meaningful way.