Who Am I?

Hello my name is Paul Gehan and I am from Gordon Park on Brisbane's north-side. My History - I was a cook in the Australian Army for 18 years and whilst this gave me immeasurable pleasure my time came to move on in 2003. In addition, I was an Assistant Physical Training Instructor (PIT) for the Defence Force, where I gained my invaluable experience and passion in helping others with their fitness goals. I did this over a 10 year period locally and internationally e.g. on peace keeping missions.

I understand what it is like to be beating the odds and pushing yourself as I have had to do so myself. I was medically discharged from the Army as the result of a push bike accident.

I was paralysed from the neck down and spent many months in the spinal care unit at the PA hospital here in Brisbane. I then spent quite some time in the Army rehabilitation process also after being released from hospital. Hydrotherapy and physiotherapy were a way of life to again learn how to move in a functional way.

Lifting 50gm was an effort in a wrist curl and shoulder pressing 1.5kg with both arms was mentally and physically hard.

To cut the long story short I was in rehab of sorts for almost 2 years. The best part now is I have an opportunity to be able to help others and do something I am truly passionate about. I wake every day thankful to be able to move without a wheelchair and know that even now my job is my rehab.

I am thankful also that I am able to do almost all things as well as anybody.

My Qualifications
In 2004 I completed Certificate III in Fitness and Certificate IV in Personal Training at Fitlink Training College here in Brisbane. I am also a Level 1 Strength and Conditioning coach I have completed Group training as well as Aqua modules. I have full insurance with Fitness Queensland as well as Senior First Aid qualifications


My Fitness History
I have completed many triathlons over every distance including the Ironman (4km swim, 180km bike ride, 42 km run) at Forster Tuncurry. The Sydney City to Surf fun run 8 times, road racing and canoeing triathlons are just a few challenges I have accomplished.

Another highlight has been completing the 16 day pushbike ride for the Westpac rescue helicopter fundraiser, on the north coast of NSW.

However my greatest achievement to-date has been a 10 month bike tour adventure around Western Europe which brought me great fulfilment and appreciation of what life has to offer.

I guess I could not ignore the serious accident I had in 2002 as another remarkable achievement which is something that is always in the forefront of my mind but I never dwell on it to hold me back.