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My Fitness Journey and Why I Became a Personal Trainer

Writer's picture: Richard SalmonRichard Salmon

Richard Salmon Truefit Training Coolum Beach Transformation
Personal Training Peregian Springs


Five years ago, I made a decision that changed my life: I committed to improving my fitness. Like so many others, I started this journey with no plan, no structure, and no idea what I was doing. I wanted to lose weight, look better, and finally feel good about myself.


But what I didn’t know then is that I was doing everything wrong. I was making all the classic fitness mistakes—too much cardio, not enough strength training, neglecting nutrition, and ignoring how I felt. These mistakes cost me years of frustration, injuries, and wasted effort.


Today, I’m sharing my story because it’s the reason I became a personal trainer. I’ve been where you are: overwhelmed, confused, and tired of not seeing results. My journey taught me what works, and now I’m on a mission to help others avoid the mistakes I made and achieve their goals faster, smarter, and stress-free.


The Early Days of my Fitness Journey and The Mistakes I Made


When I first started working out, I did what most beginners do—I focused solely on cardio. I thought running, cycling, and endless hours of cardio machines were the only way to lose weight. My goal was simple: get lean and lose fat.


But here’s the truth:


• I had no structure or program.

• I didn’t know which exercises were right for my goals.

• I didn’t understand the importance of strength training.

• I wasn’t fuelling my body with nutrient-dense food.


Most importantly, I ignored how I felt. I cared only about the physical results—losing weight and looking good. My mental health, energy levels, and overall well-being didn’t matter to me.


The Consequences of Doing It Wrong


Yes, my cardio-heavy routine helped me lose weight, but it came at a cost. Here’s what happened:


1. I Lost Muscle: Without strength training or proper nutrition, I didn’t just lose fat—I lost muscle too. This left me feeling weak, not strong.


2. My Metabolism Slowed Down: Muscle is metabolically active tissue, meaning it burns calories even when you’re at rest. Losing muscle slowed my metabolism, making it harder to maintain my weight.


3. I Gained Weight Back: Despite hours of cardio and eating the same way I always had, I started gaining weight again. It was frustrating and disheartening.


4. I Got Injured: Without muscle to support my joints, I developed chronic low back pain and a knee injury that lasted for years.


I felt stuck, frustrated, and defeated. It was a cycle of hard work and disappointment that left me questioning everything.


The Turning Point: How I Changed My Approach


Everything changed when I decided to take a new approach. I realised I needed more than just cardio to get the results I wanted—I needed a program, structure, and balance. That’s when I started focusing on:


1. Strength Training: I began incorporating resistance exercises like squats, deadlifts, and push-ups into my routine. This helped me rebuild the muscle I had lost and boosted my metabolism.


2. Mobility and Stability Work: I started including mobility and stability exercises to prevent injuries and support my joints.


3. Cardio in Moderation: Instead of endless hours of cardio, I focused on shorter, more effective sessions.


4. Nutrient-Dense Nutrition: I started fuelling my body with the right foods to support my workouts and recovery.


5. Prioritising Mental Health: I began paying attention to how I felt, not just how I looked.


Where I Am Now: Stronger, Leaner, Happier!


Fast forward five years, and I’m now 32 years old. I can confidently say that I’m the strongest, leanest, and happiest I’ve ever been.


I Feel Strong: Strength training has transformed my body and my confidence. I no longer feel weak or prone to injury—I feel capable and powerful.


I Have Balance: My fitness routine is sustainable. It’s about progress, not perfection, and it supports my life instead of taking it over.


I’m Healthy Inside and Out: Fitness is no longer just about aesthetics for me—it’s about mental clarity, energy, and feeling good in my own skin.


Why I Became a Personal Trainer


My journey isn’t just about my transformation—it’s what inspired me to become a personal trainer. I’ve been where my clients are. I know what it feels like to struggle with injuries, frustration, and a lack of direction. And I also know how life-changing it is to finally find a program that works.


As a personal trainer, my mission is simple:


Save You Time: I’ll create a structured plan so you don’t waste years on ineffective workouts.

Save You Energy: I’ll show you what works so you don’t spin your wheels with trial and error.

Save You Money: You won’t need to spend money on fad diets, useless programs, or gimmicks.

Save You Stress: I’ll guide you every step of the way, so you never feel overwhelmed or lost.


I want my clients to avoid the mistakes I made and achieve results faster, smarter, and with less frustration.


How You Can Avoid My Mistakes


If you’re starting your fitness journey or feel stuck, here’s how you can avoid the mistakes I made:


1. Follow a Program: Work with a personal trainer or use a structured plan that includes strength training, cardio, and mobility work.


2. Balance Your Training: Combine strength training and cardio for the best results. Strength training builds muscle and boosts your metabolism, while cardio supports heart health.


3. Prioritise Recovery: Rest and recovery are just as important as your workouts. Listen to your body and avoid overtraining.


4. Eat for Your Goals: Fuel your body with nutrient-dense foods and prioritize protein to support muscle growth and recovery.


5. Think Long-Term: Fitness is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on sustainable habits that you can maintain for life.


My Message to You


If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck, know that you’re not alone. I’ve been there, and I understand how hard it can be. But I also know that with the right guidance, you can achieve your goals and feel stronger, healthier, and more confident than ever before.


You don’t have to do this alone. Let me help you create a fitness program that works for you—one that’s sustainable, effective, and tailored to your goals.


Ready to Transform Your Life?


I’d love to help you take the first step. Whether you’re looking for personal training, a customised fitness program, or just guidance to get started, I’m here for you.


Contact me today to book a consultation or join one of my training programs. Let’s work together to create the best version of you.








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