Cityscape spends five minutes with Kristy Thomson, who with Jamil Rehman are the team behind The Gallery Fitness, in Montreal Street. Opening their own gym is the culmination of a 20-year dream, particularly for Rehman. The Gallery Fitness is a gym for people who are serious about their goals.

What are you most proud of with your bodybuilding? Going to the Arnolds (the Arnold Schwarzenegger Sports Festival) in the US in 2010 and getting 8th. Getting in the top 10 gets you IFBB (International Federation of Bodybuilding andFitness) professional status.

When did you switch from working out to bodybuilding, and why? I started working out at 15. At 17, I hired a personal trainer, Robyn Crotty, All Black Ryan’s mum, I started with her. At 20 I did my first national competition and won the figure class. If you want to get into bodybuilding it’s best to get a personal trainer that specialises, to help you achieve your goals.

Any injuries? Not from bodybuilding. The only injury I’ve had is a dislocated knee from being bowled by Buddy the dog.

What’s the best thing about having your own gym? I’m proud when we can help someone achieve their goal, whether that’s losing weight, changing shape or entering a competition. It’s not just about being healthy, you also can’t put a price on the confidence that gives. The shyest people do competitions. We warn them about what is in store but then they face their fears and do it anyway. Often they’re the ones that look the best.

What’s your advice for people who want to look and feel better? Good nutrition is important. Also, have a plan and set realistic goals – so a three-month goal, a two-month goal, and more short-term ones like weekly and daily. Year-long goals are harder to work towards. And remember, it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey as well – you have to enjoy it. It’s about having realistic goals that work for you, and a routine. If you fall behind, don’t beat yourself up, just move on. And still allow yourself some treats once a week; it gives you something to look forward to. I put on 20 kilos when I had my son, Amani (now 18 months old). I initially lost eight kilos but it was hard to lose the other 12. I got there though, by having goals and a routine.

How strict are you with your own body? You have to look after your body because it’s the only one you’ve got. It’s important to look after it as best you can. I make sure I have a balanced diet, so fruit each day, two to three servings of salad, vegetables, and also carbohydrates and protein. Drinking water each day is also important.

thegalleryfitness.co.nz