Sweat Therapy: The Story Behind Fit by Caz

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s “too late” to start in fitness—or to become a trainer—meet Carol (Caz) Attieh, founder of Fit by Caz, a boutique women’s studio in Sydney built on her philosophy of Sweat Therapy.

Caz wasn’t always into fitness. In her twenties she was the classic “join a gym for a month then vanish” kind of girl. But after the birth of her third child, a comment from her mum sparked something in her. She decided to give the gym one more try — this time joining with friends, finding a great trainer, and experiencing a vibe that made her feel like she belonged.

That experience changed everything. It was the difference between dreading exercise and falling in love with it. The right trainer, the right energy, and a sense of community made her realise how powerful fitness could be when it’s done right.

Soon after, a friend suggested she become a trainer herself. At first she laughed it off — she’d been a graphic designer, not a sporty type. But after studying her Certificate III and IV in Fitness, she found her calling. She started as a mobile trainer, hauling gear in her car and training clients everywhere from parks to Sydney offices. It was chaotic, but she loved it.

Eventually, with three kids of her own and the juggle feeling real, she decided to open a home studio — a place that worked for her family and gave clients a consistent space to train. She called it Fit by Caz, and it quickly became a community where women could feel supported, seen, and strong.

Today, her timetable includes one-on-one and small-group training, challenges, wellness sessions, and her signature “Balance” class — a blend of mobility, resistance, and mindfulness that clients love. “It’s low intensity but it burns,” she laughs. “People come in thinking it’s easy, but they leave saying ‘I didn’t know I needed that.’”

For Caz, the most rewarding part isn’t the physical changes — it’s the mindset shifts. She sees women come in unsure, nervous, or ready to give up, and leave standing taller, more confident, and genuinely happier.

She recalls one client, Jenny, who reached out saying she’d tried everything — even considered medication — but nothing stuck. Together, they focused on small, consistent habits and realistic goals. By her 40th birthday, Jenny had not only lost 10 kilos but rediscovered her spark. “She was glowing,” says Caz. “That’s what Sweat Therapy is all about.”

Running a business while raising three kids hasn’t been without challenges. Caz says time boundaries and mum guilt were the toughest to navigate. “You want to please everyone, but you have to protect your own time too,” she says. “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

When it comes to what makes a great trainer, Caz doesn’t hesitate: empathy. “Everyone has a story. You need to listen, adapt, and help them feel seen. It’s called personal training for a reason.”

She also believes the fitness world isn’t oversaturated — because people aren’t just buying workouts, they’re choosing trainers they connect with. “Your vibe attracts your tribe,” she says. “There might be lots of trainers, but there’s only one you.”

Her advice for women thinking about studying fitness? “Just do it. Silence the self-doubt. Back yourself. You’ll never regret learning more about your body and helping others do the same.”

Caz admits even now she has days when that little voice of self-doubt creeps in — but she’s learned to push through. “I was never the sporty girl. I was the creative one. But look at me now. You can always start again.”

It’s a reminder that passion can strike at any age — and that fitness is about so much more than muscles. It’s about community, confidence, and connection. And for Caz, it’s about helping women find their strength, one sweaty, soulful session at a time.

At Women’s Fitness Education, we love sharing stories like Caz’s — because they remind us that every trainer starts somewhere. Whether you’re a mum, a career changer, or someone who simply wants to make a difference, our Certificate III & IV in Fitness (with women’s health modules included) are designed to help you start strong.

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