Caroline Hynes, Health and Fitness Industry Project Partner | Organisational Design | Group Fitness
Caroline has an incredible and analytical mind that works in ways not many can master, no matter how we try!
Caroline’s ability to “Shred”, “Define” and “Build” as she coins it, has built some of the strongest business foundations for high-level operating boutiques across the industry, and the beauty of it is, she has just launched a consultancy!
Caroline is a highly sought-after Organisational Design Consultant. A truly unique human when you match her flair for business systems, processes, and learning management with her colourful flair for movement as a professional dancer and experienced Group Fitness Leader. Caroline sees the importance of remaining hands-on and has a deep understanding of industry trends, cycles, and workflows.
I am lucky to continue to work closely with Caroline, so I hit her up recently with a few questions about her career,
you can read her musings below…
Why did you choose the fitness industry, or did it choose you?
You could say that the fitness industry chose me! As a child, I wasn’t particularly sporty, but I was heavily involved in orchestras, choirs, drama, and dance. One day, by chance, I stumbled upon an early-morning aerobics TV show and I was instantly hooked. At the age of 14, I asked my mom to take me to the gym so I could experience the class in real life. I began instructing at that gym while I was in university, and the rest, as they say, is history. Since then, my career has taken various twists and turns, both within and outside the fitness industry, but it will always hold a special place in my heart as my first love.
Have you ever struggled with inclusion and belonging in your career?
Throughout my career in fitness, I’ve been fortunate to have had incredible opportunities and experience various roles both in the front and back of the house. While some roles have felt like a perfect fit, providing a sense of belonging, even in those that haven’t been as aligned, I’ve always been met with acceptance and understanding. It’s heartening to see the fitness industry as a whole evolve into a more inclusive space. Gone are the days of gender-based roles, with “boys in the gym and girls in group fitness.” Now, anyone can pursue their passions and become anything they desire within the fitness industry. There are numerous options available for each person to find their unique path and transform their lives for the better.
What challenges have you had to overcome to pursue your dream career?
Confidence has been my biggest challenge. As a non-athletic child with a dream of becoming a Group Fitness Instructor, I didn’t fit the typical fitness stereotype of the time, such as the ones depicted in Aerobics Oz Style. This led to immense pressure to conform. Consequently, I developed unhealthy exercise and eating patterns, as many of us did during that time. Moreover, pursuing a full-time vocational career in fitness was not considered a viable option, so I used it as a means to support myself while attending university. Looking back, I’m grateful for that decision because it has allowed me to combine my unique perspectives in the work I do today, resulting in incredible satisfaction.
How do you manage your work-life balance?
In my opinion, pursuing your passions leads to work and life seamlessly blending together. While work can be a great source of inspiration, it can also result in being constantly engaged. Recognizing this, I make a conscious effort to practice self-discipline and take breaks to recharge and gain perspective. This not only benefits my relationships and family but also fosters personal growth. Taking pauses always brings a fresh perspective that is valuable.
Who’s been your biggest mentor to date?
I’ve never had formal mentorship in my career. Instead, I’ve always been the type of person to ‘give it a go’. While being thrown into the deep end can be daunting, I actually find it thrilling to rise to the occasion and excel.
However, I couldn’t have done this without soaking up inspiration and knowledge from some of the industry greats I’ve been fortunate enough to cross paths with throughout my time in the fitness industry. From Sydney’s iconic freestyle instructors of the nineties and noughties who taught me what incredible classes felt like, to the small business owners who navigated the challenges of the COVID pandemic with innovative solutions, the CEOs, COOs, and leaders I’ve worked with who taught me valuable lessons in grit, patience, perseverance, and excellence to the amazingly talented teammates I have met throughout my career. I’m grateful for each and every person (call them mentors) who has been a part of my journey and has contributed to shaping who I am today.
You can connect with Caroline directly via LinkedIn or her company page, TCM.
