The idea for Real Fitness Training came out of the frustration co-founders and owners Vicky Van De Luecht and Mitchell Phillips felt with the industry they had worked in as professionals for many years. They were watching people search for happiness in all the wrong places, jump from program to program, follow numerous fad diets – all while never truly unlocking the secret to their success. By the time they sought the duo’s help, they were physically and emotionally shattered.
The business began in 2013 on a small scale. Mitch and Vicky wanted to create the right programs that would guarantee the success of our clients. Eight months were spent researching, developing and writing ground-breaking programs.
The pair opened their first studio by sub-leasing a space at a cross-fit gym on Anella Avenue in Castle Hill. They leased out 100 sqm and over the next 9 months grew the business to 50 clients, running an average of 90 personal training sessions each week.
At that point, in late 2014, Mitch and Vicky opened their own 220 sqm studio where RFT is currently located in Hoyle Avenue, Castle Hill.
They now employ six full time trainers, four casual yoga instructors and two casual administration staff.
RFT is a well-respected leading voice on fitness and wellness in the Hills and Mitch and Vicky are the go-to spokespeople with local media who need a comment on anything related to fitness.
What the Coaches think of RFT
Wes Marshall – 3 years with Real Fitness
“Real Fitness is an awesome place to work because Mitch and Vicky have created an environment where everyone is like family, clients included. They encourage growth and gaining of knowledge and won’t hesitate to assist with that in any way they can.
Mitch and Vicky show leadership skills well beyond their years and this is reflected in their trainers. Working at RFT is different to the ‘bigger’ gyms because clients aren’t just a member or number. There is a true sense of care and support for both clients and trainers. Having been involved in quite a few Fitness establishments over the past 12 years, I can honestly say that RFT have created something that is extremely rare in this industry. ”
Nathan – 2 years with Real Fitness
“Real fitness is a fantastic place to work at. As soon as you walk in you feel at home and feel welcome by not only fellow staff but by all of the clients. There is constant support from all staff and ongoing development to help me grow and learn as a personal trainer so I can deliver the best service. The most important part about real fitness, is the care factor. Everyone genuinely wants to get to know you which helps to add to the community feel.”
Annabelle – 1 year with Real Fitness
“Since starting at Real Fitness my love and knowledge for fitness has grown hugely due to extensive on the job learning and support by Mitch and Vicky. The atmosphere at RFT is like no other I have experienced before and I have always said that from my first time I walked through the doors. I enjoy my role at RFT I get to work with a great team and our client base are an amazing bunch of people, never a dull moment!”
Matthew – 6 months with Real Fitness
“As a new trainer looking for my first PT job I found it hard joining a team where I didn’t agree with what they taught and their general approach towards training clients. After my first few weeks at Real Fitness I knew this was a gym I could see myself working in for the long term. The energy, friendliness and enthusiasm shown throughout the gym by not just the coaches but also the clients inspires me to bring about a positive attitude. The successful nature of Real Fitness shown through clients results also motivates me so I can help continue the success through training my own clients!”
What an incredible journey. This team have been our rocks. They have supported us and been our extended family. We have been through so much together, helping and supporting each other in all conditions.
When Mitchs beautiful sister unexpectedly passed away 2 years ago, one of the toughest years to date but it made us as a team so much stronger. In small business you can’t just take a month or so off to grieve, your in it 24/7. But having a team like we do helped us more than words can explain. We have taught each other compassion, gratitude and love.
We would do anything for these beautiful people in our lives. Thank you team for being exactly who you are. Your not just coaches your real people with real stories and amazing values.
I am so excited for our next part in our journey, as we carry forward and learn and learn and learn to keeping growing in life and as owners of RFT and as people.
Thank you to all of you for supporting us. We truly have a mission to help people become healthier and live in a fulfilled, healthy life. We want to empower people to bring their health back not just feeling average feeling the true benefits of optimal health.
Thank you for being part of RFT, this environment wouldn’t be what is without you all.
