INSTRUCTOR OF THE MONTH – AUSTRALIA (September 2024)
In this new regular feature, we’re highlighting Instructors from Australia and Southeast Asia who demonstrate exemplary commitment to their Les Mills Instructor career (i.e., consistently buying new Releases and attending Quarterly Workshops and events). This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Savita Kwatra from Canberra (Australian Capital Territory), who will receive a FREE Quarterly Workshops ticket and a mic belt from our friends at Fitness Audio.
What inspired you to become a Les Mills Instructor?
I've been an avid fan of BODYATTACK for over 10 years - a back row participant! I was hooked from the very first class, thanks to my amazing and inspirational Instructor and LMAP Trainer/Presenter, Rachael Ayre, who pushed me to work hard, stay motivated, challenge myself and, most importantly, enjoy the experience! The music was a natural endorphin-booster and helped me navigate a difficult time in my personal life.
I first joined the gym in 2013, and group fitness classes were a new experience for me. What started as one class a week quickly grew into three, and I fell in love with fitness even more. You could say I had an immense passion for the program and that fire is still burning today!
Over the years, a few Instructors encouraged me to become a BODYATTACK Instructor, but I was always reluctant - afraid of the stage and filled with self-doubt. However, I decided that 2020 would be the year I'd finally take the plunge and start training. Then COVID hit, and everything shut down.
During that time, I channelled my passion for fitness into studying online to become a personal trainer, all while balancing my regular job and home life. I figured it was the perfect plan for when COVID restrictions would eventually lift. Eighteen months later, as life slowly returned to normal, I found myself back in the gym, reminded of just how much I loved the group fitness feeling. That’s when I reconsidered pursuing BODYATTACK training, though the fear and doubt were still there. It was a conversation with Nathan White, my favourite BODYATTACK Instructor and LMAP Presenter, that truly changed everything. I told him, "I'd love to make one aspect of someone’s day better, just like you do for me - it would be such an honour.”
In 2022, I bit the bullet and enrolled in Online Initial Training. My Trainer, Eve Phelan (LMAP Trainer/Presenter) told me, "It's a forever journey," and she was right - both then and now! I'm still learning from every class I teach, and will continue to do so.
I was incredibly fortunate to be mentored by Nathan and am thankful for the knowledge, guidance and patience he gave me. There were endless nights of scripting, understanding the coaching model, and overcoming "panic monster" moments. I’m so grateful to the Instructors who supported me along the way - they know who they are!
After attending the LES MILLS LIVE event in Brisbane in 2024, I was super inspired and so completed my Advanced Training. This completely transformed how I approach teaching. It reinforced what I already knew but also gave me a new perspective on how and why I teach.
I'm deeply grateful for the knowledge shared by YS Teoh (LMAP Trainer/Presenter) during this upskill, which allowed me to tap into new depths within myself.
Becoming a BODYATTACK Instructor has done more than make me a fitness teacher - it has helped me to develop many crucial life skills. I've grown in confidence at my day job, learned to believe in myself, be brave and courageous, and model these qualities for my daughters. I'm also incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of my husband.
Recently, I was asked by a BODYATTACK Trainee to be her mentor. I felt incredibly honoured to share what I've learned, and to be seen as an inspiration for others to follow. What an absolute privilege!
What would you like to work towards in your career as a Les Mills Instructor?
Looking ahead, I aim to continue making a meaningful impact, wherever that may be. My goal is to inspire and influence others, sharing everything I know to help them achieve their best. While we all aspire to be among the best in our field, my ultimate destination is to keep sharing and inspiring, making a difference in as many lives as possible.
What do you believe are the key benefits of attending Quarterly Workshops?
Workshops are the best way to get a first look at new Releases, to feel the moves, hear the music and connect with other Instructors. The energy is always electric, especially in person and it’s an awesome way to stay motivated and inspired. It's a celebration of togetherness, something we all came to appreciate even more post-COVID.
Upskilling is a massive benefit too - it’s about understanding the bigger picture including fitness trends, movement sequences and their purpose.
Every Quarterly Workshop is an opportunity to reignite the fire and take it back to your classes, sharing that renewed energy with your members. Being in a room full of people who share the same energy and passion is invigorating. There’s always something new to learn or a fresh perspective to gain.
Thinking about In-Person Workshops, what do you like the most about them?
What I love most about In-person Workshops is the celebration of togetherness, something we all came to appreciate even more post-COVID. Every chance to connect with Instructors and members who share the same passion, feels even more special. The vibe at these workshops is always electric - there’s this “magic electricity” that you just can’t replicate anywhere else.
As soon as the Workshop begins, I find myself starting to memorise the moves, listening to the music, almost subconsciously planting the seeds for learning the new Release. Seeing the moves demonstrated first-hand, with correct technique and precise coaching, makes everything click!
Thinking about Online eWorkshops, what do you like the most about them?
Online eWorkshops offer flexibility, ensuring that even if you can’t attend in person, you still have access to quality training and education. Both formats are crucial for staying updated on the latest fitness trends and techniques, keeping me on top of my game - essential for any Instructor.
What do you find most helpful about the Quarterly Release Kits?
That we get access to them as soon as we check in for the In-person Workshops! It’s great that we can make playlists through the app now, and it’s also super helpful that we’re able to download the Releases and access them offline, as often we can be in a studio with Bluetooth connection and low WiFi. Of course, this is a bonus to having the USB cables we should always have on hand!
What tips do you have to help Instructors learn new Releases efficiently and effectively?
My process for learning new Releases starts with workshops - whether In-Person or Online. Watching the Masterclass and education sessions is key to understanding each track’s focus and any unique aspects of the Release.
From there, it’s all about getting the music in my head and scripting my classes. Scripting my cues is so important, as it helps ensure that everything I say has meaning and impact and, ultimately, enhances the members’ class experience.
What do you love most about being a Les Mills Instructor?
The most rewarding part of being a Les Mills Instructor is the impact I have on people’s lives. Whether I’m helping someone improve their fitness, supporting their mental health, or just being a positive part of their day, it’s a privilege to be part of their journey.
The friendships I’ve made and the community I’ve built around my classes are so fulfilling. It’s amazing when someone tells you that you’ve inspired them or helped them through a tough time - it’s a reminder of why I do what I do.
To see others push beyond their limits, grow stronger and find joy in their fitness journey is incredible.
Being a Les Mills Instructor really has changed the way I live, how I do my work, and who I am as a parent.
Fitness is such a powerful tool for mental health! I love that I can be my authentic self in class and show others that every time they walk in the door to class, it’s their safe space and their time to be themselves and be free!
What would you tell someone who is considering becoming a Les Mills Instructor, but does not feel ready?
If you’re thinking about becoming a Les Mills Instructor but aren’t sure if you’re ready, my advice is simple: don’t wait! Time waits for no one, and you won’t know what you’re capable of until you try. Be brave, be courageous and take that leap - you might be surprised at how many lives you can touch, including your own! Embrace the discomfort as the real growth happens when you’re uncomfortable!
Where can people find you online?
Instagram is @savita_k_
If you or someone you know has a passion for teaching Les Mills programs and a consistent history of buying new Releases and attending Quarterly Workshops, then you can submit a nomination for Instructor of the Month. To do so, simply email your name and Customer ID to marketing@lesmills.com.au.
