As part of our #WEAREAUSactive campaign, we continue to spotlight the inspiring journeys of AUSactive members who are shaping the future of the exercise and active health industry.
This week, we are proud to feature Bodie Webster, a Strength and Conditioning Coach and educator.
His career has been driven by curiosity, continuous learning and a genuine desire to help others move better and perform at their best.
After high school, Bodie was unsure of his career direction. However, over time, he built a diverse career across personal training, strength and conditioning, education and business ownership.
Today, through Intent SF, Bodie supports both athletes and everyday clients. In addition, he teaches the next generation of trainers at TAFE.
His story highlights the many pathways within the fitness industry. It also shows that success is built through experience, adaptability and lifelong learning.
Meet Bodie Webster
How long have you been a member of AUSactive?
I’ve been an AUSactive member since 2017.
What motivated you to pursue a career in the exercise and active health industry?
When I was in Year 12, I had no clear direction. However, I was always active and enjoyed sport and gym training.
Someone suggested I study fitness at TAFE. After completing the course, I realised I loved helping people learn about exercise.
More importantly, I saw how much exercise can positively impact people’s lives.
What qualifications do you hold?
I hold:
- Certificate III and IV in Fitness
- Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessment
What has your journey as an exercise professional looked like so far?
I started my career in gym administration and sales. At the time, I was not confident enough to run my own personal training business.
However, I wanted to stay in a gym environment so I could learn from others.
As I built confidence, I began training clients outdoors. I delivered one-on-one PT and group sessions.
This experience taught me how to provide high-quality training with minimal equipment.
Later, I became a gym instructor. This allowed me to combine indoor and outdoor work while building a stable income.
At the same time, I enrolled in a Bachelor of Exercise Science. One of the biggest benefits was applying new knowledge directly in my work.
After graduating, I moved into a full-time Strength and Conditioning Coach role. I worked mainly with combat sports athletes.
I spent two years in this role and loved helping athletes improve performance.
Later, I transitioned into teaching Certificate III and IV in Fitness at TAFE. This was a full-circle moment, as I returned as a teacher.
Today, I also run a home gym and online coaching business through Intent SF. I work with athletes and everyday clients who want to get stronger, lose weight or become more independent.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
One of my proudest moments was leading a Muay Thai athlete through a world title fight camp.
She went on to win the title. Being able to say I’ve worked with a world champion is something I’m very proud of.
What has been your biggest challenge as an exercise professional?
One of my biggest challenges has been adapting my coaching style.
With athletes, you can be very direct. They will usually follow instructions closely.
However, everyday clients often feel overwhelmed, even with small amounts of exercise.
Therefore, I had to learn when to push, when to hold back and when to lead with empathy.
Although challenging, this has made coaching more rewarding.
How has AUSactive helped you overcome this challenge?
AUSactive has not always helped directly. However, it provides access to online sessions and professional talks.
Through these, I’ve learned from other trainers working with different populations.
I regularly apply these insights in my own coaching.
What advice would you give someone thinking about a career in the exercise and active health industry?
Keep learning.
After your initial qualification, continue learning from other trainers. Take additional courses and gain experience in different environments.
Even experiences you do not enjoy can teach valuable lessons.
The fitness industry requires ongoing growth. If you are not willing to learn and adapt, it may not be the right fit.
What is your favourite part of your job?
As a lecturer, I enjoy seeing student growth.
They often start with basic ideas about fitness. Over time, they learn to identify good and poor information.
Watching them apply this knowledge with real clients is very rewarding.
As a trainer, my favourite moment is when clients become independent.
When they can train confidently on their own, I know I’ve made a real impact.
What has been your highlight of being an AUSactive member?
The opportunity to upskill.
There are always courses, talks and resources available.
This ongoing support helps exercise professionals continue learning and developing.
