Our Story

Yvette’s fitness journey is like a workout playlist – upbeat and full of hits! Starting in South London, she taught aerobic classes with a ‘Jane Fonda-esque’ flair. Picture leg warmers and neon leotards – pure ’80s magic!  Soon, Yvette’s career kicked into high gear, leading her to manage health clubs and even starring in her own fitness DVDs. It was like she had her own fitness soundtrack!After a brief stint as a Tour Guide on the Greek islands (doesn’t everyone), Yvette returned to the fitness arena in time for the Les Mills era in the late 90’s and played a pivotal role in expanding the Les Mills programs throughout UK and Europe as the National UK Training Director. She met her husband Pete who was one of the original international road-warriors for Les Mills programs, and the stage was set!

In the early 2000s, Yvette, Pete and their then 2yr daughter packed their bags and headed Down Under to Australia, where she helped transform the largest health club chain in the world, Fitness First,  from a business unit of 23 to a whopping 95 clubs over a period of 6 years of amazing growth.  

Fitness First Australia was the shining star of the Fitness First business group, and Yvette’s mantra was to create group fitness experiences in each club that enticed the members to return to the studio and pack the classes.  “We are the color of the clubs. The changing room gossip.  No-one ever discusses a treadmill or a squat machine, but they all have something to say about the instructor, the music and what they are wearing.  We are not selling workouts.  We are selling experiences!”

2010 brought the Manuel family to Bali, where they have built a home and set up a couple of businesses.  Now, as the maestro of her own fitness studio, 15FIT, Yvette continues to pursue her passion, aiming to drive results in both classes and client sessions, and choreographs a routine of happiness and health. Her vision is to pump up the volume on enthusiasm and build a vibrant healthy fitness community and third-space that’s the equivalent of a post-workout endorphin party.   

She is currently studying as a menopause transformation coach recognising that not everyone breezes through this transition known as the bookend to puberty.  Her journey exemplifies dedication, success and a commitment to empowering women through their wellness journey.  Creating a safe and supportive environment for discussion can help women navigate these transitions more smoothly and help with a greater sense of purpose.

Yvette’s journey isn’t just a workout; it’s a dance through the decades, and she’s still leading the charge!