Disabilities Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor

Thank you for taking the time to find out more about my services. I specialise in personal training for people that have a physical or intellectual disability. I also deliver disability focused and general group fitness classes. A majority of my work is based in gym or studio settings at City Fitness locations around central and east Auckland, I also work in the community and other areas if requested. My focus and passion is getting people of all abilities and backgrounds moving and improving their health and fitness in a sustainable way. My approach to health and fitness is a holistic and sustainable one. An individual's goal is achieved by focusing on their existing strengths, skills, and preferences. It is those factors that shape and direct how a plan will work. The sessions we create together aim to be achievable, challenging yet sustainable, while still being delivered in a relaxed and comfortable way. Effective exercise does not have to have you sweat like you are in the tropics or exhausted like you have just run a marathon. I aim to create enjoyable and achievable fitness for my clients. Ongoing planning, support, training, and coaching is provided to make lasting positive changes.
I know the struggles that come with making changes in this area and want to help others do the same. I was very overweight from an unhealthy lifestyle for many years. I got to 125 kg at my heaviest weight. My lifestyle had to change. I now sit around a healthy 96kg. I am a trained and registered personal trainer, HITT group instructor, and weight management/health coach. I play tennis and badminton, work on sports diplomacy programmes, and enjoy spending time with my family and friends.

Client feedback

"As someone who walked into a gym for the first time ever, I was honestly nervous and unsure of what to expect. Working with Gavin completely changed that experience. From day one, he made me feel comfortable, welcomed, and never judged. He took the time to explain everything clearly, demonstrated exercises patiently, and made sure my form and safety always came first. What really stood out was how encouraging and motivating he was—pushing me just enough without ever overwhelming me. Gavin understood my beginner level perfectly and built my confidence along with my strength. Because of him, the gym no longer feels intimidating, and I actually look forward to training. I couldn’t have asked for a better first-time gym experience, and I highly recommend Gavin to anyone, especially beginners who are unsure where to start. An absolute professional with a great attitude and an even better heart."
JOBIN MARKOSE
"I had signed up with Gavin Dawson to be my fitness coach in early December 2025. In just 8 sessions over the last 2 months with Gavin, I have seen an appreciable improvement in my strength, fitness and energy levels. As a pensioner who has never had any interest in training, I was concerned that getting into his now could end in injury. However, this is just not a concern with Gavin. In the 30-minute sessions, which could be challenging for me, Gavin always stops the exercises before even I feel I should. I would strongly recommend Gavin as a PT instructor- especially for elderly clients who are not in good shape."
ROY MENZIES
"When I first joined the gym, I did not have the confidence to work out by myself, I felt shy, and embarrassed to attend gym sessions. Gavin ensured that my exercises were beneficial and worked for me. He also taught and supported me on how to do my workout plan continuously. Now I know how to focus on my own goals and not worry about the people around me. I can focus on what I am doing and my well-being. As a female, he made me feel safe and confident to be in the gym. I recommend Gavin to those people that want a positive, supportive, and relaxed trainer. Love that about him! "
IRENE TAI
"Training with Gavin has been a great experience. He often takes time to explain the why behind each exercise, which really helps me understand what I am doing and why it matters. His approach makes training manageable and sustainable, encouraging consistency even with a busy lifestyle. I have always left the sessions feeling motivated, which I believe is one of the most important factors in staying committed to achieving your goals."
Laura Magnavacchi
"Training with Gavin over the past couple of months has made a huge difference to my confidence and progress in the gym. Gavin has shown me how to use equipment safely and effectively, and the consistent check‑ins and support have helped make fitness feel achievable and enjoyable. I now genuinely look forward to going to the gym and to each session, where I can show the progress I’ve made and try new exercises as we add them in. Gavin has played a big part in building my confidence, and I really appreciate the patience, encouragement, and willingness to adapt based on my feedback and goals. Working with Gavin has been a really positive experience, and I’m excited to keep building on the progress we’ve made together."
Jed

Contact me to discuss your options on 021 438 805 or gavin@gavindawson.co.nz