Michael Hennessy
Q: What area of fitness are you currently working in?
I'm very passionate about developing 2 areas. Firstly running programs and training for beginners & intermediate runners building towards special events or becoming self sufficient regular runners. The other area we are developing is our post natal fitness classes for mums & Bubs.
Q: How did you get into the fitness industry?
I started working casually in a gym back in 1995 because i loved all sports, training and activities. I then went on to the University of Sydney to study exercise physiology and went from there....
Q: Your reason for being in the fitness industry?
I love being able to make a difference with individuals. I know the value of exercise (i wouldn't be half the person I am today without it) and so i know just how much I can help others. If only they knew how much they would get out of it i'm sure we could do so much for the rest of the inactive population.
Q: Any gripes about the fitness industry?
Definitely all the gimmicks on the market! There is no short cut to hard work, consistency and structured progressive programming. No pills, potions or magic super vibrating, ab rolling, dynamic wonder apparatus is ever going to do everything. As an industry we need to view 'new wonder products' with some critical scientific thinking and not fall for the marketing spin.
I think many consumers view the fitness industry (& its employees) in the same light. Also with this I think as an industry we need to increase the level of professionalism among fitness instructors and personal trainers.
Q: Did you study any areas of exercise or fitness?
Yes a Bachelors degree in Exercise & Sports Science at the University of Sydney. Also Cert III & Cert IV in fitness at the FIA. I'm also a Science teacher (Dip Ed), but the fitness industry is where my heart lies.
Of course keeping up to date is critical so I have continued with more short courses including pre & post natal fitness, aqua instructor, as well as Athletics Australia qualifications in coaching (Levels 1 & 2). FILEX is also a great opportunity for learning more about many different areas of the industry and refreshing your skills & knowledge.
I've also spent many years in surf lifesaving so have completed many courses in first aid, advanced resuscitation, defibrillation etc and have also taught first aid and occupational health courses for RTO's in the past.
Q: How important do you think it is to update your learning in the fitness world?
It is absolutely critical! We can never know it all. Plus there is always new information being presented and the world of exercise science is only in its infancy. We still have so much to learn and discover about the body & how it interacts.
Q: What would you like to see happen in the industry over the next few years?
I'd love to see the government invest more heavily in exercise & nutrition initiatives at all levels. Affordable access to variety of exercise opportunities plus education & skills in sensible nutrition principles could have dramatic effects.
Also I'd like to see more practical hours incorporated into the training of new fitness instructors. You can't beat experience.
Q: Any predictions?
Technology will play a growing role in physical activity. We need to embrace it rather than complain about its sedentary affects.
Q: What advice do you have for anyone wanting to learn more about fitness?
Ask questions, do your research & keep asking questions. Obviously accredited courses are your best information but challenge what you know & hear from other sources. Why does it work? Is it true? Surround yourself with healthy motivated people with more experience and soak up everything you can.
Michael Hennessy can be contacted at info@outfithealth.com.au or www.outfithealth.com.au
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