Richie MacDonald

With a strong background in rugby and amateur boxing, I bring over 20 years of experience as a dedicated Les Mills member before transitioning into Personal Training for the last 10 years. My approach is results-driven and performance-focused — I take pride in helping clients of all levels, from beginners to professional and international athletes, achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

My training philosophy centres on delivering sessions that are both physically and mentally challenging, while being individually tailored to each client’s goals, abilities, and needs. Every program is designed to build strength, resilience, and confidence — both in and out of the gym.

I have extensive experience working in high-performance sport across representative and club-level rugby, holding Strength & Conditioning and Head Trainer roles with:

• Wellington Rugby Academy
• New Zealand Under-18 Girls Sevens Rugby Team
• Wellington Centurions Representative Rugby Team
• Old Boys University Rugby Academy and Premier Rugby Team

Additionally I coach powerlifting with a client the 2024 Masters 2 (under 120kg) National Champion and a current New Zealand representative. I also have extensive coaching experience in boxing, drawing from my own amateur boxing background.

I currently train a number of college student-athletes (locally and abroad) across several disciplines, providing strength and conditioning programs for rugby, wrestling, water polo and golf. This experience has allowed me to work on developing well rounded athletes, helping them build the physical foundation and performance mindset necessary to excel in their respective sports, and life.

What I value most about personal training is the opportunity to truly connect with each client — understanding their goals, motivations, and challenges — and supporting them on their journey. Witnessing a client’s growth, progress, and achievements is the most rewarding and motivating part of my work.

If you’re looking for a trainer who combines elite-level experience, variety, motivation, and fun with a commitment to hard work and real results — I’d love to help you reach your goals, get in touch today.