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 (PTI) 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.

Your Local PT

Your Local PT was born out of the requirement to return to work after my accident. With my previous jobs and experience I knew I wanted to help people. I began with some One on Ones and then evolved in to doing Group classes in August 2005 in the Arana Hills area.

I love the dvariety and styles of training as they each bring different challenges and rewards. it is this blend that keeps me motivated. Meeting new people always to help them acieve their goals. The greatest rewards are seeing clients lose over 25kg and others thathave completed half marathons and triathlons.