Amanda Rodrigues's journey is a remarkable tale of a woman deeply connected to her community, who followed her passion for fitness and made a profound impact on the town of Diggers Rest. Amanda's story begins in the 1980s when her family moved to Diggers Rest from Gladstone Park. From a young age, she felt a strong bond with the area and its people, an affection that would only grow stronger with time.
After spending her formative years in Diggers Rest, Amanda embarked on a corporate career that spanned nearly three decades. Despite her success in the corporate world, Amanda always longed for more time to devote to her passion for fitness and well-being. The desire to prioritize her health and bring a fitness facility to her beloved community led Amanda to take a courageous step and become a business owner.
As the sole owner of the "Listen to Your Body" franchise, Amanda had a clear mission – to establish a fitness haven where people of all ages and fitness levels could come together, exercise, and enjoy a sense of community. The name of the business, "Listen to Your Body," holds great significance, reflecting the founder's approach to personalized training, ensuring each client's needs, injuries, and goals are tailored to their individual workout programs.
"I've always loved going to gyms, and waiting for somebody else to put a gym in our area or in Digger's Rest just seemed like it was never going to happen. So I eventually took steps to figure out how I can make it happen," Amanda explained, revealing her motivation to become a business owner.
Amanda's journey took a personal turn when she realized that her role extended beyond being the business owner. To truly connect with her members, she engaged in personal training sessions herself, allowing her to build rapport with those who walked through the gym's doors.
"Getting to know the clients and starting personal training myself has been the best way to build rapport with our members who are coming in," Amanda shared.
What sets "Listen to Your Body" apart from other gyms in the region is its unique approach to fitness, providing a comfortable and welcoming space for adults and even younger members of the community. Amanda's dedication to fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the gym is evident through the strong community aspect that the members value.
As a true Diggers Rest local, Amanda has a profound love for the area and is excited to witness its growth and development. While Diggers Rest has already undergone significant changes, Amanda is eager to see what the future holds. As she reminisces about the area's slogan from the 80s, "city living, country style," Amanda can't help but appreciate the best of both worlds that Diggers Rest offers.
As a passionate advocate for her community, Amanda actively participates in local events and endeavors to contribute more in the future. As a new business, "Listen to Your Body" has already sponsored the Diggers Rest Bar, the local footy club, and plans to explore more opportunities to get involved and support the community.
In her downtime, Amanda finds solace and joy at her home on a small property in Diggers Rest. Amidst managing the property and caring for her dogs, Amanda has a favorite spot to relax and socialize – Russell Estate, where she enjoys having a big lunch and cherishing moments with her community. She also looks forward to exploring other social activities such as dinners at Houdini's and barefoot bowls at the local bowls club.
As Amanda reflects on her journey, she realizes that Diggers Rest has always been her home. Her love for the community, her dedication to its well-being, and her passion for fitness have all culminated in a thriving business that not only serves as a gym but also as a place where people come together, support one another, and foster a strong sense of community spirit.
Amanda Rodrigues's story is a testament to the power of following one's heart, the impact of community involvement, and the deep connection one can have with their hometown. As she continues to empower her community through "Listen to Your Body," Amanda's unwavering commitment to Diggers Rest remains steadfast, and her legacy will continue to inspire others for years to come.