From Garage Workouts to a Women’s Fitness Movement

When Palma first stepped into a Zumba class with her mum at just 13 years old, she had no idea it would shape the trajectory of her life. That weekly Saturday routine sparked something powerful—a love for movement, community, and the joy of fitness. By the time she was 17, Palma had already committed to becoming a fitness professional, enrolling in Certificate III and IV in Fitness at Macquarie Fields TAFE.

Fast forward to today, and Palma is the powerhouse behind Bootcamp2U, a women’s-only fitness space built on passion, perseverance, and a whole lot of heart.

Starting Out in a Man’s World

Palma’s entry into the fitness industry wasn’t without its hurdles. Her first job was at a gym dominated by male trainers, and she found herself the only woman in the back room. It was intimidating, but it didn’t stop her. Instead, she focused on building genuine relationships, approaching potential clients with warmth, conversation, and a helping hand.

“I wasn’t taught to sell—I was taught to train,” she recalls. “But to survive in that environment, I had to learn how to sell myself, to show my value.”

Park Sessions and Garage Hustles

Determined to create something of her own, Palma began hosting bootcamps in the park. Attendance was inconsistent, and she often faced empty classes. Still, she didn’t give up. She pivoted—transforming her dad’s garage into a PT studio and slowly building a loyal client base.

Before long, she was training 13–14 clients a day, six days a week. The turning point came during a bout of tonsillitis when she had to pause for two weeks. Hiring a trainer to fill in showed her the power of delegation—and planted the seed for a bigger vision.

Taking the Leap: From Garage to Gym

With encouragement from a friend, Palma took a bold step and leased a commercial space. But just as she opened the doors, COVID hit. Instead of shutting down, she returned to her roots—outdoor training in parks. While many gyms closed, Palma adapted. Her resilience became her edge.

Post-COVID, the real challenge began: transforming a PT-only model into a thriving group fitness hub. It meant breaking even for a while, reinvesting in her dream, and believing in the process. Today, Bootcamp2U has over 100 members, multiple trainers, and a diverse offering of classes and services.

Creating a Space for Every Woman

What sets Bootcamp2U apart is its inclusivity. It’s a safe, welcoming space where women of all backgrounds feel seen and supported. Whether it’s someone wearing a hijab or trying fitness for the first time, Palma’s team ensures they feel at home.

“We’re about building confidence inside and out,” she says. “Our members feel empowered to be themselves.”

More Than a Gym—A Movement

Bootcamp2U now includes a nutrition bar, a dance studio, and a team of six female trainers from varied cultural backgrounds. Palma also runs regular mindset workshops for her staff, ensuring personal growth goes hand-in-hand with professional development.

Her biggest tip for aspiring trainers?

“You are worthy of getting clients,” she says. “Say it. Believe it. Repeat it. Don’t give up before you get there.”

Palma’s story is a reminder that with heart, hustle, and an unshakeable mindset, you can create not just a business—but a legacy.

Follow Palma’s journey at Bootcamp2U and get inspired to build your own path in fitness.

If you’re thinking about becoming a qualified personal trainer or group fitness instructor, check out our Certificate III and IV in Fitness. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!