As part of our #WEAREAUSactive campaign, we continue to highlight the inspiring journeys of AUSactive members making a difference in the industry.
This week, we are featuring Rebecca Huddleston — a passionate and long-standing professional in the fitness industry whose career began in the UK and has grown across decades of dedication to movement, community and education. From aerobics in church halls to instructing over 14 classes a week in Sydney, Rebecca’s journey is full of energy, growth and generosity.
Meet Rebecca Huddleston
How long have you been a member with AUSactive?
I have been a member of AUSactive for over 10 years.
What motivated you to pursue a career in the exercise and active health industry?
During my late teens in the UK, I was initially employed as a manager, then as an owner of a Beauty Therapy business in a gym. I was inspired to become a Group Fitness Instructor having attended an aerobics class. I have always been passionate regarding sports, health and fitness and held a title for Junior Miss Regional Association of Natural Bodybuilders. I worked on Sundays in the gym as a Fitness Instructor and gave lectures in Safe Bodybuilding. At a young age, I learned how quickly your body shape can change with correct exercise and diet advice.
What qualifications do you hold?
My qualifications include Cert III and IV in Fitness, Aqua, Yoga 200 hours, Restorative Yoga, Core Yoga, Boxing, TRX, Metapower, Pilates Matwork, Pilates Ball Circle Band, Prenatal, Children, Older Adults, Les Mills Body Balance, Les Mills Body Combat, CIDESCO Diploma of Beauty Therapy, NVQ Hairdressing, Level 4 AAT Association of Accounting Technicians.
What has your journey as an exercise professional looked like so far?
My first journey as an exercise professional ventured from instructing Hi Low, Body Conditioning and Over 50s classes in the health club, to hiring venues in church halls and sports centres, also instructing Step, Cardio Funk and Callanetics. Second time round, after emigrating to Australia, I qualified as a Group Fitness Instructor and have been fortunate to be employed by the Sutherland Shire Council, instructing a minimum of 14 regular classes per week between two leisure centres, with opportunities to cover many different class styles when required, over 200 classes per week.
What accomplishment are you most proud of, personally or professionally?
My most proud accomplishments in fitness during my early to mid twenties in the UK was the expansion of my business. I formed a partnership with my brother called Fitness Factory. We employed three more instructors, sold our branded T-shirts to participants, and independently, I ran Diet Cubs and wrote weekly articles on Beauty and Fitness in the local paper.
What has been your biggest challenge as an exercise professional?
My biggest challenge as an exercise professional is to maintain recommended standards, rules and regulations, and the correct techniques within a group fit class.
How did AUSactive help you overcome this challenge, if applicable?
AUSactive guidelines are instilled at my workplace. I use AUSactive guidelines to explain why we are unable to allow late entry to classes, and why exercises have to be demonstrated on the equipment first rather than the participant freestyling.
What would you advise for someone thinking about a career in the exercise and active health industry?
My advice to new instructors is to become qualified in as many courses as possible, to give variety for yourself and more work opportunities. Always say yes to class covers and you will be asked first. Watch and participate in classes and take notes. Many instructors will mentor by giving advice and possibly copies of their lesson plans. Try not to take it to heart, as not everyone will like your class. You will make money as your regular classes build up.
What is the favourite part of your job?
My favourite part of my job is laughing with the members, being part of a fitness community and getting a workout myself, even sometimes if minimal from just demonstrating, you are still moving.
What has been your highlight of being an AUSactive member?
My highlight of being an AUSactive member is being asked to do this.
Check out Rebecca's AUSactive profile here.
