Richard Coutts

Richard’s journey at Vision began with a wake-up call—not just from jet lag, but from the realisation that his post-holiday habits had caught up with him. What started as a reluctant step into the gym, guided by his wife’s initiative, evolved into a life-changing commitment to health, routine, and community. Today, Richard stands as a testament to consistency, proving that small sacrifices can lead to extraordinary results. His story is one of resilience, routine, and the power of a supportive fitness family.

Q&A:

What first brought you to Vision, and how were you feeling about your health and fitness back then?

My wife! We’d just come back from an all‑inclusive Christmas getaway in Malaysia — great food, great time, and a little too much showing in the waistline.

I knew I should probably do something about it, but it was my wife who took the initiative and booked us in to see Guy at Vision Gladesville the day after we got back.

How was I feeling? Mostly jet lagged and bewildered that we were at an 8am gym appointment one day after our holiday. I was mildly sceptical, but Guy’s empathetic approach and the relaxed, non‑judgmental vibe of the studio put me at ease.

What’s one thing you’ve achieved here that still surprises you when you think about it?

I’m amazed that I haven’t missed a single PT session and still make it to group classes at least twice a week. For a confirmed non‑morning person, that’s huge.

I’ve reshaped my routine around early starts — school drop‑off, work, everything — so I wake up at the same time every day.

That, and losing 12kg in 18 weeks.

Can you describe what your journey has looked like since joining Vision – the highs, the hard bits, and what kept you going?

It’s been a genuinely positive experience, largely thanks to the friendly, personal, and professional approach of my trainer, Lola.

The highs have been the visible results: the drop in kilos, the shrinking waistline, and feeling stronger week by week.

The hardest part has definitely been the mornings, though they’re getting easier (especially when I manage a decent bedtime).

Lola has kept me accountable with PT sessions and classes, tracking my food, and staying active throughout the day.

How has being part of the Vision community made a difference for you – in or outside the gym?

The Vision community is nothing like what I expected. No one is there to show off; everyone’s on their own journey to improve their health, so there’s no embarrassment or shame about body shape or ability. As a naturally non‑sporty person, that was a huge relief.

Beyond my time in the gym, the in‑person seminars have been really helpful and a great way to connect with trainers and other members in a relaxed setting.

A highlight was the Mother’s Day Walk — a fun, energetic stroll and a free coffee to top it off. We brought our seven‑year‑old daughter, who enjoyed the walk and even joined in on a group class afterwards.

What would you say to someone who’s in the same shoes you were when you started – maybe nervous, unsure, or stuck?

There’s no harm in coming in to talk to Guy, Marsden, and the team at Vision. Have a chat, see what they offer, and work out whether it fits your lifestyle.

Yes, there’s some sacrifice, but the payoff is absolutely worth it. As I’ve found, the mix of better eating and regular, guided exercise can lead to surprisingly fast (and hopefully lasting) results.

What’s next for you – and how do you see everything you’ve learned here helping you stay strong and healthy long‑term?

I’ll probably need another six months at this intensity to reach my ideal weight. After that, it’s about building the routines and strategies that let me maintain my health without feeling deprived of good, healthy, tasty food.

I’m reassured in the knowledge that I’ve now built habits I can rely on long‑term — and if I ever need extra support, I know I can come back to the Vision team without judgement.