Bedfordview fitness guru commits to an active life

Fitness guru Gary Mufanina hopes to inspire others to look at exercising and fitness as something achievable.

At 30 years old, the Bedfordview resident has carved out an illustrious career as a professional personal trainer, fitness instructor, and life coach.

His journey with fitness started at Jeppe High School for Boys, where he excelled as a first-team rugby player.

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“The sport ignited my passion for fitness. I started to explore exercise more seriously, which led to me studying exercise science at UJ,” stated Gary.

In 2019, he joined Virgin Active in Eastgate, where he became well-known for his energetic group exercise classes and innovative fitness approach.

Continuing to push boundaries, he made the top 10 of Mr South Africa in 2022.

“Through that experience, I discovered things I never knew I could do, like modelling,” he said.

Currently, he works at Melrose Arch. He now works with a more exclusive clientele in the Collection Club, Virgin Active’s elite network.

This move allowed him to connect with high-profile individuals and further refine his expertise in personal training.

Gary’s approach to fitness is as much about mental and emotional well-being as it is about physical health.

He emphasises the importance of creating enjoyable and engaging exercise experiences to foster long-term commitment.

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His blend of personal training and life coaching helps clients address both physical and emotional challenges, a philosophy he describes as essential in his work.

“People put a lot of trust in their trainers. You learn about life coaching because you start learning certain patterns and things about people. You then help them to find solutions to their problems. Now I have more life coaching clients as well,” he shared.

He combines traditional fitness methods with cutting-edge technology, utilising apps and data to tailor training programs and track progress.

He said the integration of technology ensures that his clients receive personalised and effective training.
His passion for fitness extends beyond his professional life.

“Most people don’t realise how effective exercise is. It has the power to improve mental health.

“Research has shown how physical activity can alleviate depression and enhance overall well-being. I always put exercise as a priority.

“Mentally I still push myself to a point where it must still be enjoyable. It’s not enjoyable, then I will not want to exercise.

“When you exercise you release endorphins. Not only do you feel better but your self-esteem will improve,” said Gary.

Addressing exercising misconceptions he said, “Never having enough time to incorporate exercise into your daily lifestyle is one of the most common misconceptions there is. Everyone has time often spent on less productive activities like watching TV.

“The key is to prioritise exercise and even find small windows of opportunity throughout the day.”

He said another misconception is that fitness is solely about looking good.

Gary pointed out that fitness has significant health benefits beyond aesthetics.

He encouraged individuals to start small with simple, fun and manageable exercises.

“Begin with simple movements at home, like wall sits or short walks. This approach helps the body get used to regular activity without feeling overwhelmed.

“To make exercise more appealing choose an exercise that you will enjoy. Whether it’s through music, engaging workouts, or social interaction at a gym, making exercise fun can enhance adherence.

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“Just be brave. Sometimes we get scared to make a big decision or to take a big step. At times we can wonder what if it doesn’t work out the way we plan it. I think most of the time it will work out the way we wish it we do due diligence.”

He also recently made the Top 20 for the Men’s Health Magazine cover search. To vote for him, follow him on his social media platforms.