Executive Team

In a circular journey through the fitness industry that has spanned more than 30 years David has seen firsthand the explosive growth of the industry and in particular the phenomenon that is now personal training. After a short stint as a schoolteacher in the secondary education systems of NSW and Qld, David discovered that his passion for fitness could be converted into a great career and promptly swapped his blackboard and chalk for a microphone and a pair of gym shoes. It was a decision he would never regret. In the 1980’s and early 90’s David carved a niche as one of Australia’s leading fitness edutainers, travelling to all parts of Australasia presenting workshops and convention sessions for fitness professionals. He was also in demand at conventions as far afield as the USA and Japan. In 1988 David was named Australian Fitness Leader of the Year, in recognition of his contribution to the fitness industry. David has also had plenty of experience on the other side of the fitness fence too as a club manager and employer – operating a successful club on Qld’s Gold Coast for six years and was for a number of years the publisher of Club Network, Australia’s premier publication for fitness club owners and managers. Now, as CEO of the Australian Institute of Fitness (NSW/ACT) and an Institute Director, David is focussed on ensuring that the Institute continues to graduate Australia’s best personal trainers, empowering them to excel in this exciting industry.

Steve Pettit has extensive experience in a range of roles, thus is a very well known and highly respected figure within the Fitness Industry. After completing a Bachelor of Physical Education (Exercise Prescription and Management) and a Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing) Steve commenced his career in Fitness as a Personal Trainer. Since this time he has gone on to work with some of the world's leading fitness providers including, Les Mills Asia Pacific, Les Mills International, Zest Health Clubs and now the Australian Institute of Fitness. Steve's passion for improving the health and wellbeing of Australians' drives him to ensure that the Personal Trainers the Institute graduates are of the highest quality: "we are facing a real challenge in Australia, that is the battle against obesity and sedentary lifestyles. A graduate of the Australian Institute of Fitness is empowered to make a real life difference to their clients, friends and families and that is something we are very proud of."

Debra has had a long and varied career in the leisure and fitness industry. She holds qualifications in management and marketing. Most of Debra's experience has been in managing leisure facilities and health clubs at both a State and Regional level.

Debra has spent over 25 years in the industry and most recently worked as a Regional Manager for Belgravia Leisure (a national Leisure Management Company). Her portfolio included: leisure centres; aquatic centres, stadiums, health clubs and golf courses and she looks forward to bringing these varied experiences and skills to the Institute.

Having spent many years employing gym instructors, personal trainers and club managers Debra knows exactly what to look for in a fitness professional and is committed to ensuring that the Institute continues to graduate trainers who have a passion for the industry.