The fitness industry is ever-evolving, with leaders like Justin Tamsett, affectionately known as JT, at its helm. As a veteran in the field, JT has carved out a career spanning decades, touching every aspect of the fitness world—from gym ownership to global speaking engagements and leading Rex Roundtables. His insights, shared on the Love Your Career Podcast, are a treasure trove of career and life advice for fitness professionals. Here's a closer look at his journey and the lessons that can inspire those navigating this vibrant industry.
1. Love What You Do
JT’s career mantra is simple yet profound: love what you do. His journey started on the gym floor in 1989, a time when personal training was still a novel concept. Despite doubts (like a gym owner once declaring, “No one will ever pay for a personal trainer”), JT’s passion for fitness led him to explore every avenue of the business—from sales to club ownership. His advice? Embrace curiosity and continuously learn. Loving your work means approaching challenges with an open mind and an eagerness to grow.
2. Curiosity Opens Doors
Curiosity was JT’s superpower. From asking gym members about their jobs to volunteering with industry associations, he sought knowledge at every turn. These interactions not only broadened his perspective but also expanded his network. For fitness professionals, being curious about trends, new techniques, and industry leaders is vital. Whether you’re on the gym floor or in management, learning from others is an invaluable way to grow.
3. Build Relationships, Not Just Skills
JT emphasizes the importance of connections. Early in his career, he benefited from working with a well-connected boss, which opened doors to opportunities in Australia and beyond. For fitness professionals, this means networking is not optional—it’s essential. Whether it’s attending industry events, joining professional groups, or volunteering, relationships often play a pivotal role in career progression.
4. Set Goals, But Stay Flexible
JT achieved his dream of owning a gym by the age of 25—a goal he set early in his career. However, he admits that being overly rigid in goal-setting can be counterproductive. He encourages professionals to set goals that challenge them but remain adaptable to changing circumstances. This balance allows for growth without the pressure of perfection.
5. Leadership is a Learning Curve
Leading a team of 65 employees at a young age taught JT some hard lessons. Initially a strict, high-D personality type (“my way or the highway”), he lacked the emotional intelligence needed to manage people effectively. Over time, he evolved into a more empathetic leader. His key takeaway? Leaders must make the hard decisions that managers often shy away from. In fitness, this might mean setting clear expectations for your team while also supporting their growth.
6. Create a High-Value Recruitment Process
One of JT’s standout career stories is his rigorous hiring process, designed to attract candidates who genuinely valued the opportunity. From detailed online applications to multi-stage interviews, his process ensured only the most dedicated individuals joined his team. This approach resonates with fitness businesses looking to build strong cultures. A tough hiring process doesn’t just find the best candidates—it creates a shared sense of purpose among team members.
7. Invest in Emotional Intelligence
When hiring, JT prioritizes emotional intelligence (EQ) over technical skills. He believes you can teach someone how to sell or program workouts, but you can’t teach them to be kind, listen, or communicate effectively. For fitness professionals, developing EQ can set you apart in an industry that thrives on personal connections.
8. Be Hungry, Healthy, and Humble
Reflecting on advice for his 21-year-old self, JT distilled his life philosophy into three principles:
- Hungry: Stay driven and curious. Always strive to learn more and do better.
- Healthy: Maintain a balance between mental and physical health. A healthy mind and body are non-negotiable in the fitness industry.
- Humble: Never stop learning. Approach every opportunity with humility, and surround yourself with people who challenge you to grow.
9. Look Beyond the Industry
JT encourages fitness professionals to seek inspiration from outside the industry. Just as British Airways learned from Formula One pit crews, the fitness world can benefit from insights in unrelated fields. Whether it’s studying customer service in hospitality or team dynamics in tech, cross-industry learning can spark innovation.
10. Pay It Forward
JT’s career was shaped by mentors and experiences that broadened his perspective. Today, he pays it forward by sharing his knowledge through Rex Roundtables, a mastermind group that helps fitness business owners tackle challenges and grow. His advice to professionals is clear: share what you’ve learned, and help others succeed.
Want to dive deeper into JT’s career, his hiring strategies, and his advice for thriving in fitness? Don’t miss the Love Your Career Podcast episode featuring Justin Tamsett. Listen now for a wealth of insights that could transform the way you approach your fitness career.
