The Noosa Aquatic Centre (NAC) has struck gold with its Teen Gym program, which launched in early 2023 as a response to a growing demand for youth-focused fitness options in the community. Originally trialled for high school students aged 13 to 16, the program has exceeded all expectations with a growth rate of over 300 per cent in just 20 months.
At the heart of this success is Gym Instructor Matt Nezval, whose background in high-performance sport, having played academy and professional league soccer in Europe, brings a unique edge to the program. Matt’s approach is tailored to each participant, assessing their abilities and goals, whether they are surfers, board paddlers, or budding athletes looking to improve their strength and fitness for their chosen sports.
“The variety of activities we offer and the personalized attention make the program appealing to teens,” Matt explains. “It’s about more than just fitness—it’s about building confidence and new skills in a fun, safe, and social environment.”
Running four days a week during school terms, the two-hour sessions offer a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. Participants start with a warm-up, engage in an outdoor activity, and then move to the gym for hands-on instruction with free weights, machine weights, and cardio equipment. Each session wraps up with a cool down, ensuring a balanced and well-rounded workout experience.
For many participants, the program offers more than just physical benefits. They’ve gained new fitness knowledge, improved confidence, and developed a mature, responsible attitude thanks to Matt’s respectful and relatable approach. He not only teaches the technical aspects of fitness but also acts as a mentor, helping these young people grow into responsible and motivated individuals.
The NAC Teen Gym operates from 3 to 5pm, Monday to Thursday, during the school term. For more information, call the Noosa Aquatic Centre at 5448 0288 or visit Girraween Court, Sunshine Beach.
