A TAFE NSW Meadowbank student is making waves in the local fitness industry at the age of 21, and proving university isn’t the only path to success.

Australia's fitness industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years and is now worth over $2 billion annually.

Hunters Hill local Ross Greenwood has always had a passion for fitness and wellness. After realising he could get paid to do what he loves, he decided to get a head start on his career during high school.

With a Certificate III in Fitness under his belt, he is now studying a Certificate IV in Fitness while working as a Gym Instructor at Next Gen Ryde, with plans to become a personal trainer.

“I was working as a delivery driver but wasn’t fulfilled. I’ve always had a passion for fitness, including training myself and helping others to train, so I thought I may as well get paid for it. I decided to enrol in the Certificate to formalise my training and haven’t looked back since – I’m really enjoying the lifestyle of being a trainer,” Mr Greenwood said.

"Throughout the course I’ve really enjoyed making new friends, practising personal training, and learning new exercises. Having the qualification has helped me get my foot in the door of the industry, and running group training classes and writing training programs in my role as a gym instructor is incredibly rewarding.

“My goal is to inspire others, help them discover their potential, and guide them on their fitness journey. I’m looking forward to progressing in my career and becoming a personal trainer one day, and possibly even starting my own personal training business.”

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Health and Recreation, Sandra Apostolou said students like Ross highlight the life-changing impact of industry-aligned training.

“Many of our fitness students find work straight after graduation or even start their career while they’re still studying,” Ms Apostolou said.

"Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to apply their skills in an authentic learning environment and engage with industry professionals, so they can confidently walk out of study and into work,” Ms Apostolou said.

“Students also have the opportunity to get involved in community events and apply their skills to real clients under the supervision of qualified trainers. This allows them to hit the ground running as a qualified fitness instructor or personal trainer, and help their clients reach their fitness goals.”

Media contact: Emma Hughes, Communications Specialist, 0409 618 291, emma.hughes51@tafensw.edu.au​​​​​​​