Fitness has always been central to my identity. Growing up in Australia, my parents strongly supported my athletic pursuits, and I spent my early years playing competitive netball and basketball. At 27, after getting married, my partner and I chose a very different path. We left our familiar life behind and spent five years cycling across Europe and Asia, taking on various jobs along the way to experience as many countries as possible. Exploring the world by bike felt like the most natural way to combine movement and adventure.
I returned to Australia in my mid-thirties, just four weeks after welcoming my first daughter. Not long after, I qualified as a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, and later welcomed my second daughter. With a long-standing passion for health and wellbeing, I was eager to deepen my knowledge and help others achieve their goals. That passion quickly evolved into competitive training, fuelled by my goal-driven mindset and my love for the atmosphere and camaraderie of race days.
Over the past four decades, I’ve completed multiple triathlons, several marathons, countless long-distance cycling events, and even competed in bodybuilding and weightlifting competitions.
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Today, with the rise of functional fitness and hybrid training, my focus is Hyrox — a competition that blends running with functional workout stations. At 71, I recently competed in my fourth Hyrox race, placed first, and qualified for the 2026 World Championships in Stockholm. I’m also currently ranked fourth worldwide in the Hyrox rankings.
I’m still learning, adapting, and getting stronger. These are the five key fitness habits that have kept me consistent and motivated throughout the years.
1. I Make Hybrid Training a Priority
While my workouts have evolved over time, hybrid training has always been my foundation. This approach blends strength training and cardiovascular work to support overall performance and longevity.
Currently, I train six days a week, combining traditional strength sessions with Hyrox-style group fitness classes. My strength workouts often include supersets, pairing upper- and lower-body movements such as hamstring curls, leg extensions, dumbbell rows, chest presses, and pull-ups.
My group fitness sessions mirror Hyrox race elements, including the ski erg, sled pushes, farmer’s carries, and walking lunges. Technique is non-negotiable for me, whether I’m training solo or with teammates.
Cycling remains close to my heart, and on weekends I often ride 80 to 100 kilometres at a time.
2. I Eat Whole Foods Without Restriction
I aim for a colourful plate filled with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Some of my go-to foods include eggs, salmon, chicken, sweet potatoes, and brown rice.
That said, I believe deeply in balance. I love food and enjoy discovering new restaurants and bakeries with my partner, so I never deprive myself. If I want dessert, I enjoy it. I don’t count macros or follow strict rules — I eat intuitively, listen to my body, and truly appreciate good food.
3. I Stretch Every Single Day
With the volume of training I do, daily stretching is essential. Every workout ends with at least ten minutes dedicated to mobility and stretching. My routine focuses on keeping my joints well-lubricated and releasing tension in my back, legs, shoulders, chest, and arms.
Stretching not only supports healthy ageing and injury prevention, but also helps me perform at my best. Maintaining flexibility and range of motion is crucial for strong, efficient movement.
4. I Don’t Let Setbacks Define Me
My fitness journey hasn’t been linear. I’ve faced injuries, illnesses, and challenging periods, but each obstacle has strengthened my appreciation for what my body is capable of achieving.
When setbacks arise, I adapt. A few weeks before my recent Hyrox race in Chicago, I strained my hamstring. Rather than withdrawing, I reduced my training load, worked closely with a physical therapist, and listened carefully to my body.
Race day wasn’t perfect — my running pace was slower than usual — but my goal was to finish strong and stay present. And I did. Setbacks are never planned, but I truly believe that resilience is built through adversity.
5. I See Fitness as a Way of Life
People often ask how I’ve stayed active for so many years. The answer is simple: fitness is a lifestyle for me. I don’t view exercise as a task or a temporary goal. I genuinely enjoy movement and surround myself with motivated, supportive people who add value to my routine.
Over time, the gym has become a meaningful part of my life. It’s where I grow stronger, connect with friends, and feel my most confident and capable.
Fitness has always been my constant, but at 71, it feels like I’m only just beginning. From bodybuilding stages to global cycling adventures and representing Australia on the Hyrox circuit, I’m deeply grateful for the discipline, challenges, and support that have shaped my journey. Fitness isn’t a destination — it’s a lifelong path.
