A Healthy Way Of Life

For sports lover and self-described 'rugby league tragic' Robbie Brokenshire, it was almost inevitable that he would choose a career in health.

His mum was a nurse and practice manager. His brother is a GP. Robbie said that he practically grew up in doctors' surgeries and practices.

I've always been surrounded by medicine and health,� Robbie said. It's always quite intrigued me, and I had that sort of background.�

With its unique blend of sport and health, working as an accredited exercise physiologist has been the perfect career choice for Robbie.

I get to see a broad range of individuals from all walks of life,� he said. We use exercise to help treat and manage their health conditions and to help [patients] improve their overall health.�

The job is not without its perks. Basically, I get to hang out in the gym all day, exercise people and talk to people really, that's the fun thing.�

In between sessions with clients, Robbie enjoys the jokes and banter with other clients who say hello while they are at the gym. There are a few clients who love to give me cheek,� he said with a laugh.

Ultimately, the most satisfying part of the job for Robbie is being able to help others.

I like helping people ' helping them to achieve their goals and better themselves. I used to be a support worker myself. I just like to help.�

To help motivate people, Robbie tailors sessions to match each individual.

If there's a particular sort of exercise training-style that a person likes, then we try and incorporate that and their interests,� he said. We start off small and build up from there.�

As a former Novocastrian who grew up by the beach, Robbie said that working in Redcliffe had a special appeal because he loved being around the water. So much so, he is thinking about making a move to the Peninsula.

Initially, a lot of my clients actually said to me, 'You're going to end up living out here', and what's happening at the moment? I'm looking for a house out here. They've got me!�

Robbie is an accredited exercise physiologist with ProHealth EP. For more information visit: www.prohealthep.com.au.