Shoulder injury set new goals in motion

Cape Woolamai’s Fletcher Stewart knows a thing or two about overcoming adversity.  Having always been passionate about sports and fitness, it wasn’t until a serious shoulder injury prompted him to hit the gym and push his body to the limits.

‘Sport and fitness have always been a big part of my life. My parents were active and sports people themselves, so staying active was really just a regular part of life and obviously rubbed off on me,’ Fletcher said.

‘I played football, tennis and cricket growing up, and for a period of time I had been pursuing my opportunities in cricket which took me to India and England a couple of times. I didn’t really start gyming consistently until I suffered a cricket injury and the shoulder specialist told me that I had various weaknesses or, more bluntly, that I had the back strength of an adolescent boy. My gym journey really started at this point where I had to rebuild my body from doing wall presses to where I am now.’

He still enjoys playing a bit of cricket, but now Fletcher competes in half marathon and fitness competitions. He placed sixth in his first ever half marathon in Kilcunda in 2017 and recently completed Hyrox in Melbourne.

‘Hyrox first came to Australia last year so it’s a relatively new fitness event. The concept is that it is a more accessible version of Cross Fit games where competitors are required to complete eight one km runs with a functional fitness component after each run. Rather than snatches, wall push ups and muscles up, competitors complete exercises like burpees, lunges, and sled pushes and pulls. It feels a little like a half marathon, but harder,’ he said.

‘Hyrox Melbourne was hosted over two days at the Exhibition and Convention Centre at the end of June. I raced individually in the Pro division and managed to beat my time from last year by a couple of minutes despite having dealt with back-to-back injuries earlier in the year. So, I was pretty stoked to have seen some improvement despite those setbacks.’

Fletcher then competed in the mixed doubles in Sydney and will soon tackle the Pro race again in Brisbane.  

To prepare for these competition, Fletcher has a pretty strict workout routine, often consisting of three to five weight sessions at Phillip Island Gym and two or three runs a week. ‘I am currently working with Ryan Hoffman who has dialed back my compulsion for wanting to do more during this competition phase for Hyrox. While I do have a sports science background, I recommend anyone to engage a coach/PT to keep you accountable and engaged.

And while some people may find the gym program gruelling, Fletcher says the Phillip Island Gym is his happy place.

‘Whether it be going for a run or working out in the gym, this is my happy place. I know it sounds weird but I no longer listen to music as I’m able to get some mental clarity and zen while working up a sweat – essentially it’s my meditation.  This puts me in a better place both physically and mentally to deal with the daily stressors of life,’ he said.

Phillip Island Gym owner Monica Alfing said Fletcher should be celebrated for his efforts.

‘Fletcher Stewart has become a familiar face at Phillip Island Gym, known for his relentless training regimen and commitment to his goals. Preparing for the Hyrox competitions in Melbourne and Brisbane, Fletcher has been hitting the gym almost every day, building his skills and strength,’ she said.

‘Fletcher’s dedication has paid off, as he delivered an exceptional performance in Melbourne, showcasing the results of his hard work and determination.

‘As Fletcher prepares for his next challenge in Brisbane, we, the gym wish him all the luck and success. His journey embodies the essence of Phillip Island Gym—a place where strong and healthy people are made, and where every member’s success is a victory for the whole community in here.’

Fletcher encouraged anyone wanting to improve their health and fitness to find a gym as supportive as the Phillip Island Gym.

‘Fitness communities are a great way to surround yourself with good people, make friends and look after yourself in the process,’ Fletcher said. ‘Starting anything can be a bit daunting, but health and fitness is all about baby steps and getting out there and having a go. All gym goers once started somewhere (including having the back strength of a boy) and gyms are one of the most supportive and open environments you can be in. I can attest to this with the Phillip Island Gym where all the members and staff have made me feel incredibly welcome since joining this year.’