Questions worth asking before you start.
Everything you’d want to know before booking a consultation — and most of what comes up after. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, the search bar below works, or message us directly.
Top 5 Questions
What makes State of Fitness different from a regular gym?
We’re not a regular gym — that’s the point. We’re a private, appointment-only studio focused on a high standard of personal training in a calm, ego-free space. You’ll never be lost, overlooked, or pushed through a generic plan. Everything’s built around the individual — your program, your coaching, your schedule, your progress.
How do I get started?
We follow a simple 4-step onboarding process:
- Free 15-Minute Discovery Call to make sure we’re the right fit
- Free 45–60 Minute In-Person Consultation, Assessment, and meet and greet
- Before your first session we’ll get you onboard and craft your first training program
- Start Training — turn up, and we’ll handle the rest
Can I try a session before committing?
We offer paid trial sessions after your in-person consultation and assessment. Because every program is tailored, we first need to understand your goals, movement, and training history — so your trial is personalised and safe, rather than a generic workout.
Is this suitable for beginners or people returning from injury?
Absolutely. Many of our members are beginners or returning after time off or injury. Everything we do is tailored to your starting point — including how we coach you, structure your sessions, and progress your program. We also collaborate with physios, osteos, or myotherapists to ensure your plan aligns with your rehab plan if needed.
I’m an advanced lifter with years of experience. How can you help me take my training to the next level?
If you’ve been lifting for a while but feel like you’ve hit a plateau, we can help you break through it with high-level programming, expert technical coaching, and intelligent progress tracking. Our coaches are university-qualified, and many have experience working with athletes. Whether you’re chasing a new strength goal, refining technique, or want actual structure and accountability, we’ll challenge you in a way that’s intelligent, progressive, and performance-driven.
Getting Started
Can I try a session before committing?
We offer paid trial sessions after your in-person consultation and assessment. Because every program is tailored, we first need to understand your goals, movement, and training history — so your trial is personalised and safe, rather than a generic workout.
How do I book in, and what happens next?
It starts with a free 15-minute phone call with one of our coaches to ensure we’re the right fit. From there, we’ll book you in for a free in-person consultation and assessment. This gives us a chance to understand your goals and movement and allows you to experience how we coach and support our members before committing.
Book Your Free CallWhat happens during the in-the-gym consultation and assessment?
This 45–60-minute session includes a meet-and-greet with one of our expert coaches, a deep dive into your training goals, history, and preferences, and a full movement assessment. If there’s time, we’ll also take you through a short workout to give you a feel for our style. This session is all about building clarity before your first booked session.
Can I bring a family member or friend?
Yes! Most of our members come from referrals, so the more the merrier. The only caveat is that each person will need to complete their own consultation and assessment so we can ensure that what we’re doing in the gym is safe and effective for them too.
Do you offer free trial memberships?
No, we don’t offer free trials. Our highly personalised service begins with a one-on-one consultation and assessment. After that, you’re welcome to purchase a paid trial session if you’d like to experience training with us before committing.
Is there a waitlist to join?
Occasionally, yes. Because we offer private, appointment-only coaching, peak times can be booked out. If your preferred time isn’t available, we’ll provide the next best options and can place you on a priority waitlist.
About State of Fitness
What makes State of Fitness different from other gyms or PT studios?
We offer private, appointment-only personal training with a high standard of care and structure. Our coaches deliver personalised programs — not cookie-cutter templates — and our clients feel supported, heard, and guided every step of the way while enjoying our extremely well-equipped South Yarra studio.
Why does it matter that your coaches are university-qualified?
A short fitness certificate takes a few months and teaches the basics. A university degree in exercise and sport science teaches the principles — why programs work, how the body adapts, how to coach safely around injury, age, and individual difference, and how to talk to your physio or GP when it matters. Every coach here holds one. It’s the floor, not the ceiling.
What kind of training environment can I expect?
Supportive, focused, ego-free, fun, and welcoming. We’re a private studio, so you’ll never feel overwhelmed by crowds. You’ll be surrounded by people who are there to get better — not show off.
Is the coaching really personalised?
Yes, every program is tailored to your assessment, goals, movement, and schedule. As you improve, we adapt your program so you can keep progressing safely and effectively.
Is your studio private and confidential?
Yes. We are appointment-only, and everything shared with us is confidential. Our environment is safe, private, and professional.
I’ve never trained before — can I still join?
Absolutely. Many of our members start as beginners. Our four-step onboarding process ensures you’re supported from day one. Your coach will take you through an assessment, walk you through your first few sessions, and build a program tailored to your pace.
Do you work with people who are not athletes or advanced lifters?
Absolutely. We work with everyday people — professionals, students, parents, and retirees. Whether you’re brand new or years into your training, we’ll meet you where you are.
Who wouldn’t be a good fit?
People after a quick fix, a 12-week challenge, or a gym to hide in the back of. Our coaching is structured, individual, and ongoing — no boot-camp theatrics, nobody yelling. If you want anonymity, big-box energy, or a results-in-30-days promise, we’re not it. If you want serious coaching for the long run, we probably are.
I want to wear headphones — can I?
No — we don’t allow headphones during sessions. All sessions are coach-led and interactive to ensure proper form, safety, and feedback. Let us know if you prefer minimal conversation while training — we’ll always respect your preference.
Training & Programming
Will I receive a personalised training program?
Yes. Your program is tailored to your body, goals, movement, and the number of days you train in and out of the studio.
How are sessions structured?
Sessions are 60 minutes and include a warm-up, strength training, and optional conditioning or accessory work. We use efficient upper/lower supersets and smart progressions to ensure each workout is purposeful.
Can I receive additional programming outside of State of Fitness?
Yes. If you train elsewhere, travel often, or want extra sessions at home, we can provide custom workouts to fit your setup and schedule.
How often does my program change?
Programs change every 4–6 weeks, depending on progress and feedback. We also make tweaks along the way to keep you moving forward.
How do I provide feedback about my program?
You can give feedback during sessions, via SMS, or through our member app by submitting a check-in at week 4 of your program block.
Can you help with injury rehab or training around pain?
Yes — it’s a big part of what we do. Plenty of members come to us with a back, knee, or shoulder issue that other gyms made worse or ignored. We start with a detailed movement assessment, rebuild the area before we load it, and work alongside your physio, osteo, or GP when that’s the right call. One member came to us after two years of lower-back pain that had shut his training down — he now deadlifts 150kg, pain-free.
What type of training do you specialise in?
We specialise in strength, movement, rehab, body composition, and long-term strength and fitness. Whether you’re returning from injury, training through pregnancy, or chasing a performance or physique goal, we’ve got you.
Coaching & Support
Who will be coaching me?
You’ll be coached by one of our university-qualified trainers, who has experience in strength training, rehab, and behaviour change. More importantly, our staff are good people who care, with international experience and a high level of professionalism.
Will I work with the same coach each week?
Most members do. Some rotate across the team to suit their schedule. Either way, the whole team is across your program, your history, and where you’re headed — so nothing falls through the cracks, whoever takes your session.
What qualifications do your trainers have?
All of our coaches hold degrees in Exercise and Sport Science. On top of that, they’ve completed additional practical certifications and hands-on coaching experience in rehab, performance, and advanced strength training.
Will I receive support outside of sessions?
Yes. Based on your needs, you’ll receive progress tracking, check-ins, extra workouts, nutrition and lifestyle support — all depending on the level of communication you prefer.
Is the coaching style intense or supportive?
Structured and supportive. We’ll push you in a way that suits your personality, goals, and mindset — without shouting or pressure. Training should feel challenging but achievable.
Will you work with my physiotherapist, osteopath or other health professionals?
Absolutely. We frequently liaise with physios, osteos, and other practitioners to ensure your training supports your recovery and overall health.
How do I contact my personal trainer or staff?
You can speak with us in the studio, or contact us directly via email or SMS during business hours (Mon–Fri 9am–6pm, Sat 8am–12pm).
Progress Tracking & Results
I just want to exercise. Do I have to track my progress?
No — you’re completely in control of how much is tracked. Some clients love the numbers. Others just want to show up and train. Either way, we’ll guide you, adjust your program, and help you progress. The level of tracking is up to you.
How do you track my strength progress?
Your coaching app logs every lift — weight, sets, reps. At the end of each block we chart it so you can see the trend. It’s how we spot exactly what’s stalled and fix it — for one member who’d self-trained for a decade, that meant adding twelve kilos to his bench and twenty to his squat in eight months.
How do you track my body composition (muscle mass and body fat)?
We use the Evolt 360 body scanner. After each scan, we compare your results and save the data to your State of Fitness account so you can monitor improvements in lean mass, body fat, and other key metrics over time.
How do you track my nutrition?
Our app integrates with MyFitnessPal, and members can access our staff Cronometer account. If you prefer not to track with an app, we can support you with realistic meal plans, templates, or habit-based strategies that suit your lifestyle.
Will I get regular check-ins or re-assessments?
Yes. We regularly check in with you during sessions and offer SMS or phone support if you want extra accountability. We also run biannual strength testing events for those who want to measure strength and fitness formally.
How will I know if I’m improving?
We measure your progress using data (strength, scans, habits) and how you feel — stronger, more confident, and more capable in your body. Progress looks different for everyone, and we’ll help you celebrate it in a meaningful way.
Nutrition & Lifestyle Support
Do you provide nutrition plans or coaching?
Yes. All members have access to nutrition support based on their goals and preferences. We offer included and paid options, depending on how much 1-on-1 support you need. That could mean a simple meal plan, tracking, or habits coaching.
What 12-week programs do you offer?
We offer two structured 12-week programs: one focused on fat loss, the other on muscle gain. Each program includes tailored training, coaching, accountability, and the option for added nutrition support — either complimentary or paid.
Can I get help with fat loss or eating to support my goals?
Absolutely. Whether your goal is fat loss, building strength, or simply improving your energy, we’ll provide clear and realistic guidance based on your lifestyle and habits.
Do you offer accountability or support outside of training?
Yes. Depending on your goals and communication style, we offer check-ins, habit tracking, and messaging to support you outside your sessions.
Will I be given realistic nutrition advice that fits my lifestyle?
Yes — always. You’ll never be asked to follow extreme or unsustainable diets. We work with you to build a structure that aligns with your preferences, time, and lifestyle — so it actually sticks.
I don’t want to track my food with an app and kitchen scales. How can you help?
No problem. We can support you with portion-based templates, meal guides, and habit coaching that don’t require logging or measuring anything.
I want to track my food. How can you help?
We’ll show you how to log your food accurately and use the data meaningfully. Whether using MyFitnessPal or Cronometer, we’ll help you interpret and adjust your intake so you get the most from your efforts — without the overwhelm.
Membership & Commitments
Do you have lock-in contracts?
No. We run on a flexible weekly direct debit — no lock-in. You can pause, adjust, or cancel with 7 days’ notice. We’re confident enough in the coaching that we don’t need a contract to keep you; most members stay for years because the work is worth it.
Can I pause or suspend my membership if I go away?
Absolutely. If you’re going away or need a break, just give us 7 days written notice and we’ll pause your membership and payments accordingly.
What happens if I get injured or need time off?
We’ll work with you. That might mean adjusting your program or pausing your membership. Our approach is flexible, human, and here to support you through life’s curveballs.
How far in advance do I need to cancel a session?
We ask for at least 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule a session. This gives us time to offer that spot to another member.
What is flexible cancellation?
If something urgent comes up inside the 24-hour window, just let us know. We’ll always do our best to reschedule your session at no extra cost. We’re human too.
Is there a holding fee to keep my spot if I take a break?
If you take more than five weeks off annually and want to secure your recurring time slots, a small holding fee applies — but it’s optional.
Payments & Pricing
Is there a sign-up fee to get started?
Nope. There’s no joining or admin fee — just book a call, and we’ll guide you through everything.
Can I see a price list before committing?
Yes. Just fill out our short enquiry form and we’ll send you a full breakdown of pricing and membership options.
View PricingWhat payment method can I use?
We prefer direct debit using your card or bank account. Payments are made in advance and processed on Mondays, either weekly or fortnightly. If needed, we can also offer invoicing or session packs.
What’s the payment frequency for my sessions?
Most members choose weekly or fortnightly billing, but we’ll work with you to set up whatever is easiest for you.
What if I need to update my card or bank details?
No problem. You can update your payment information anytime through our member app, or just let us know and we’ll help you sort it out.
Do you charge a failed payment fee?
Nope. If a payment fails, we’ll contact you and help you fix it — no penalties, no stress.
What’s included in the membership?
Your membership includes: a personalised training program delivered through our member app, weekly personal training sessions with expert coaches, progress tracking, check-ins and support, optional nutrition and lifestyle coaching, and access to additional workouts if you train outside the studio.
Do I have to pay for nutritional coaching?
No — essential nutrition support is included and we can provide a meal plan if needed. We offer paid nutrition packages as an add-on if you want more in-depth coaching and regular check-ins.
Do you offer discounts for training frequency, students, or training with family members?
No — we don’t offer discounts. Every membership includes a high level of service and individualisation, no matter how often you train.
Studio Access & Facilities
How do I access the studio?
We’re located upstairs at 349 Chapel Street, South Yarra. Access is via staircase only. Your coach will greet you on arrival.
Can I train outside of my booked PT sessions?
Yes — if you train with us twice or more per week, you’ll have access to the gym during select off-peak hours (9:30am to 1:30pm Monday through Friday) to complete extra workouts at your own pace.
Do you offer casual or drop-in training?
No — we’re not a commercial gym. All sessions are private, scheduled in advance, and delivered by a coach.
Are there toilets and showers available?
Yes. We have two toilets and a private single shower, with clean towels available for members.
Is there parking nearby?
Yes — there’s usually street parking available on Chapel Street. You can also park in the Prahran Market car park, which is a 3-minute walk from the studio.
Results & Expectations
How soon will I see results?
Sooner than most people expect — just not always on the scale first. Within the first few weeks most members feel it: moving better, sleeping better, and the relief of finally having a routine that’s handled, in a place they trust. Strength climbs over the following months; body composition shifts after that. The early wins are what you feel. The numbers prove it’s been working all along.
What kind of results do your clients typically achieve?
Stronger lifts, less pain, more energy, better body composition, and more confidence in and out of the gym. To put numbers on it: one member, an anaesthetist, lifted his lean muscle while his body fat dropped and his metabolic age fell five years on his Evolt scan. Real, sustainable progress — not a 30-day before-and-after.
How often should I train to reach my goals?
It depends on your history and your life. If you’re already active, twice a week is often plenty; if you’re starting from scratch, we build you up gradually. One member trains just once a week — a parent with barely an hour to spare — and in ten months reversed years of back pain and got noticeably stronger. More isn’t better; consistency is.
What happens if I plateau or stop progressing?
Plateaus happen, and that’s where coaching matters. We’ll examine your training, recovery, and nutrition and make adjustments to keep things moving forward.
Do you guarantee results?
We guarantee expert coaching, structure, and support. But results take effort, and progress depends on what you put in. If you show up and follow the plan, we’ll help you get there — with no gimmicks or shortcuts.
Why do you offer a 30-day money-back guarantee?
Because we stand behind what we do. If after your first 30 days you don’t feel confident, supported, or like we’re the right fit, we’ll refund your payments — no awkward conversations, no pressure, no hard feelings.
Can you actually lose fat without losing muscle?
Yes — done properly, that’s the goal, not just a smaller number on the scale. One member, an anaesthetist with us since 2019, lifted his lean muscle while his body fat came down and his metabolic age dropped five years on his Evolt scan. Another, an executive training three times a week, dropped just under four kilos in four months — almost all of it fat, her muscle untouched. Losing weight is easy. Keeping your strength and muscle while it happens is the part that takes real programming.
Didn’t find what you needed?
A free 15-minute call with a coach. We’ll answer whatever else comes up, and tell you whether we’re the right fit for what you’re trying to do.