As part of our new #WEAREAUSactive campaign, we will be showcasing the inspiring journeys and achievements of our AUSactive members across Australia every week. 

Meet Josh Day 

This week, we are highlighting Josh Day, level 3 AUSactive accredited exercise professional and experienced strength and conditioning coach. Josh has experience coaching international teams and most recently takes pride in training the NSW wheelchair rugby league team. 

How long have you been a member with AUSactive? 

I have been a member with AUSactive for 12years and recently became an accredited level 3 exercise professional. 

What motivated you to pursue a career in the exercise and active health industry? 

My main motivation to pursue a career in the industry was purely because I was in love with being in a fitness/health environment. Growing up, I would go to the gym with absolutely no idea what I was doing, but I just loved being there. I remember looking at the trainers who supported me and thought yes – this is what I want to do! 

What certifications do you hold? 

• Cert 3 Group Fitness 

• Cert 4 Personal Training 

• Strength and Conditioning Coaching 

• L.1, Sports Trainer 

• Level 2. Diploma in Community Services 

• Diploma Massage 

• Cert 3 Disability and Leisure and Health 

• Cert 4. Disability 

Plus, numerous other Personal Training and sports certificates. 

What has your journey as an exercise professional looked like so far? 

My journey as a professional has been long and ever-changing. Originally when I started in the industry, I truly just wanted to help people. It sounds so cliche but I loved being able to help someone not only achieve their goal, but join them in their journey. 

I originally focused so much on the physical such as measurements and fat percentages and not enough on the mental support, which I have now adapted much of my training towards. 

I am always pursuing something new within the industry, not only to challenge myself but will help me grow as a person and a trainer. 

This has meant I have worked with different countries in international games such as Ukraine and Poland whilst living in different states. I have been a part of winning premierships and have met so many incredible people! 

I look forward to continually upskilling and providing the best support I can for my team, as a person and a trainer.  

What accomplishment are you most proud of, personally or professionally?  

My proudest moment I've achieved throughout these years, and once again this sounds so cliche, is bringing people together. 

Having the power to create an environment that someone can join to improve their health, meet new friends, be a part of fundraising events and much more – it's the coolest thing ever! No financial benefit could outweigh that feeling.  

What has been your biggest challenge as an exercise professional?  

My biggest challenge as an exercise professional has been social media. Not in respect of it’s usage, but the challenge professionals have with the rising growth of what is perceived as ‘real'. 

As someone who has undertaken years of training, I find myself competing against extremely unqualified people who use social media to sell messages that are incorrect. 

AUSactive has always been that point of difference for me, allowing me to continually focus on my own personal development and share this knowledge to my team. 

What would you advise for someone thinking about a career in the exercise and active health industry?  

If you are looking to pursue a career in this industry I would advise on one thing… be comfortable being uncomfortable! Be willing to always be the hardest worker in the room, always be open to learn and grow within yourself and as a trainer. 

What is your favourite part of your job?  

My favourite part of the job is being able to shape people's lives. Being able to have a small impact on someone that may lead to a long-lasting positive change is something we often take for granted. 

What has been your highlight of being an AUSactive member? 

The highlight of being an AUSactive member is finishing my professional accreditation and the process it took to achieve this – challenging but extremely valuable! 

You can check out Josh’s full profile here.