Now a health and fitness expert, former registered care nurse Chris Nayna looks after people during a different part of their life journey.
By Ara Jansen
Being a former registered nurse might well be the secret to Chris Nayna’s success – and the key to his unique approach.
While studying nursing he fell in love with cardiology and went on to become a critical care nurse specialising in cardiology. It taught him to understand people holistically and meet them where they are at.
Interested in his own health and fitness following a pre-diabetic diagnosis as a teenager, Chris made time to train daily. He began to enjoy the process, progress and the sense of community – all of which quickly became the best part of his day.
Eventually Chris formalised his knowledge, delving deeper into human biology, exercise physiology and behaviour change and completed a degree in applied science, a certificate in personal training and strength and conditioning coaching.
“I was working fulltime as a nurse and doing post-graduate studies when enquires about personal training services escalated,” says Chris. “That’s when I knew it was time to get qualified and open a gym in my garage.
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“I loved that I could still care for people, only this time in a more proactive and preventative way. It also allowed me to run my own business and provided me with the freedom to pursue other interests.
“The knowledge I gained from nursing has been invaluable. It taught me clinical insight and empathy, and it’s become a major point of difference.
“I love being part of the preventative side of healthcare, educating, building relationships and helping clients understand the significant positive flow-on effect that looking after their health and fitness has – more energy for family, greater focus at work and an ability to thrive in every area of life.”
Almost two decades later, Chris has become one of Australia’s most respected and sought after health and fitness experts thanks to this holistic approach which combines clinical nursing experience with strength and conditioning coaching.
The dad of three considers himself a lifelong learner and multidisciplinary coach. He likes to be involved in different but allied projects, which explains why he has written for Men’s Health, coached CEOs and executives, been a Ninja Warrior on television, is head of fitness at members club Lawson Flats and was handpicked to design the fitness offering at Melbourne’s Saint Haven, Australia’s first private wellness club.
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Most recently, he launched Adapt Health Club in Claremont – a boutique health and fitness club.
Chris – who has lived in Perth for the last two years – considers health and wellness not a sprint, but a marathon which requires ongoing attention and creating systems to help you perform at your best.
“Medical professionals understand the demands of healthcare. Long hours, emotional load and shift work make selfcare non-negotiable. If you don’t have the energy or emotional bandwidth to give to others, your ability to care effectively diminishes.
“For me training isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about changing your physiology to generate more energy, clarity and capacity to give more to life. The physical and psychological health benefits are significant when you invest in your own wellbeing.”
With the holidays looming, it’s a time when people can often be less strict with their health and fitness. Chris suggests during the festive season and summer, start by remembering the basics – sleep, nutrition, hydration and movement.
“When travelling, I always pack a set of resistance bands, they’re lightweight and super versatile. If you’re out of your normal rhythm, walking, running, swimming, cycling or playing social sports like a game of backyard cricket are great alternatives. Movement is medicine and even better when it’s social,” he says.
“Keep your habits simple on holidays. No need for a gym with all the bells and whistles. Find a local park, use an outdoor gym or go for a run. Doing it with the people you’re on holiday with is a good way to connect and look after each other’s physical and mental health.
“Once you’re back to your routine, you can rebuild momentum quickly. Take it as an opportunity to recalibrate and get a different perspective. You might even find a new activity you like.”
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