Ross Darragh

Although my name is Ross and I am one of the owner/managers, I get called Jack (not really, only by me in my head). But I am, (and need to be - like all other small business owners), a Jack of all trades and in my case a master of none - I’m sure the staff would agree with me on this one.
I am lucky enough to have an incredible immediate and extended caring family. Christine, my wife, and our 2 kids – Ashleigh and Josh who have recently left home to forge their own ways in life.

So, what do I do – well I oversee the staff, the roles they all play in our business and how we want you our members to be treated, alongside keeping on top of all the admin and day to day processes.
I like to be prepared, organised and on time always, although there are occasional slip ups, not all my fault, as happens in partnerships, if you know what I mean.
I train in the gym 7 days of the week most weeks at 6am. I have tried all sorts of other training times throughout the last 30 years for various reasons e.g. work and family commitments, but find I can train uninterrupted, go home to get ready for work and then not need to worry about unexpected things popping up and me having to miss out.
I am lucky that I am a reasonable sportsman no matter what the sport, a quick learner (except for math’s at school), and that I possess the amazing ability to forget and can at times, just not think! The other abilities I have are that I can very quickly sum up a situation and will correctly react/respond and have not made many, if any, mistakes twice. And yes, I know what you are thinking about me right now!
I am also lucky that Christine allows and supports me to indulge in my other hobbies. One of these is renovating houses (its ok, I was a builder in my past life) and yes, I do eventually finish them, and the other is riding our motorcycle.
I am fortunate, that I love what I do and to call Feilding our home, just as the previous 3 generations of Darragh’s have done before me.
 

Chris Darragh

Five words my friends may use to describe me: fun, straight-up, no nonsense, down to earth, funny.
I enjoy most music but have no absolute favourites. Little River Band, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, Pink are some artists/bands that I like.
I like clothes shopping (like most females), but I love Op Shopping the most. Weird and wacky but definitely interesting. You never know what treasure you’re going to find and there’s nothing more satisfying than finding that special something for a bargain price.
For relaxation I enjoy reading fiction from authors Stephen King, Robin Cook, Lee Childs, James Patterson and Sandra Brown to name a few. I also like watching action and comedy movies with a big block of chocolate.
My biggest weakness is chocolate. I especially like Cadbury Dream or Dairy Milk but honestly, any other flavour will do as long as it’s chocolate!!!
My favourite type of holiday is camping in tents. The catch being that I prefer Top 10 camp grounds as they have showers and toilets, running water and most of all – power – this comes in handy for the fridge/freezer, jug, radio, laptops, blow dryers and hair straighteners . So camping but not really… There’s nothing quite like it!! Everything is so relaxed – no housework, no cleaning, minimal cooking and meeting lots of interestdiding people.
Even though currently I do not play sports I have previously played touch rugby, indoor netball, indoor cricket and winter netball. My passion now lies with resistance gym workouts.
Family is really important to me. I believe, “without family you have nothing”. Another is life balance. I believe balance is key to everything in life.

Chris Vinsen

Hey, I’m Chris I grew up in Shannon and come from a family of 7. After starting work in Feilding I moved to Palmerston North where I live with my wife & 3 year old daughter . In my spare time I like to go fishing & hunting , but if it’s too cold, you will find me tinkering in my man-cave. Growing up I've always had a passion for sport and exercise. From a young age I played league and rugby through till the end of High School. Once I completed my degree in Bachelor of Human Performance, I went on to become a full time track cyclist in New Zealand and Australia. My cycling journey continued on for 7 years, through which I was working part-time for different supplement stores and gyms. My career in Health and Fitness began in 1999. I have worked at Evolve Fitness for 15 years, specialising in Personal Training and Sales Management. I have gained 18 years experience in my field and over the years have helped many people succeed in reaching their fitness goals. I have learnt that the key to success is hard work, determination and never giving up.

Rachel Barclay

I have a Diploma in Psychology and a Bachelors in Sport and Exercise from Massy University. I have had my own weight loss journey, so I know how challenging it can be to make a change, but anything is possible if you want it enough. I enjoy learning, reading, lifting weights and spending time with my two boys. I love helping people and I hope I can help others achieve their goals.

Luke Spurgeon

Hey there, I’m Luke. I have recently joined Evolve after completing my Bachelor of Sport and Exercise from Massey University. I originally went to Massey to study Business with a major in marketing, however I fell in love with the thought of being a PT one day and made the switch. I was born and raised in Hastings and have always enjoyed playing sports, especially football and tennis.

In recent years my training style have adjusted around new sports or simply wanting to get stronger/bigger. I have a huge passion for helping others reach their goals and I have had the privilege to help lots of people get into shape. When I’m not playing sport or in the gym, Ill often be found serving at church, youth group, or hosting a mean BBQ with friends.

I’m confident I can help you on your fitness journey whatever your goal and regardless of how busy you may be though. So don’t be afraid to come have a yarn next time you see me.

Anthea Turner

Hi I’m Anthea I teach Bodypump at Evolve, I have been teaching a few years now and I still love it. On my down time I hangout with mates or family, love movies , especially horror’s, lover of all animals. If you are ever around the gym come try a class they look scary but seriously they are not !! And it’s always great to push yourself to try new things xx

Christine Darragh

Currently I am teaching the Low Impact class every Thursday morning.  This class was designed for our senior ladies but don’t let the grey hair fool you, these ladies are full of energy and lots of sass!!  I also wear the hat of Group Fitness Manager, so if you’re enthusiastic about teaching classes and can bring lots of your positive energy, come and see me!!

Kim Scott

Hi I'm Kim and I've been teaching RPM at Evolve for over 10 years now.
I have always been involved in fitness and outdoor activities dating back to 1983 (yes 1983!) when I was selected in the NZ Track Cycling Development team. I have run a few marathons in recent times and enjoy mountain running events where I compete with my wife for 'first home' honours!
Family life revolves around my wife of 19 years (Dee) and our two children, James (33yr) and Ashlee (19yr). Most summer weekends we are often away camping lakeside and wakeboarding enjoying what NZ has to offer!

In my day job I own and run a product design & development firm called Idea Developments which fills my week days (and nights) with interest and passion for design and detailing, along with our manufacturing operation (Idea-China) in Shenzhen, China.

I have a passion for teaching RPM, from both a fitness and technical aspect, and connecting with members to see their improvements overtime. I welcome any new (or old) members keen to try a RPM class, and as I always say... "do the class at your level and take time to feel the difference as you get stronger"

Jemma Lawton

Kia Ora, I am Jemma. Sport, fitness and well-being, family, education, teaching and travel are the heart of my journey in life. It is hard to believe that I have been involved in the Fitness Industry for over 30 years. Over that time I have met many friends, colleagues and people who have shared a similar passion.

I have been privileged to cycle throughout NZ and Hawaii sharing and promoting well being through USO bike ride. Our purpose has been to promote a healthier lifestyle and also a need to have regular health checks amongst Maori and Pacific men for prostate cancer.
I now know what grandparents meant when they said having grandchildren is a whole new and amazing experience. I am blessed to have a beautiful 4 year old grandchild who with my biased view is simply amazing.
Nga Mihi...Jemma Lawton
 

Christina Heemi

Hey I'm Christina and I teach the Body Attack class on a Thursday night. I have 3 children along with working & studying this year. More importantly my favourite 3 Netflix series would be Game of Thrones, Breaking Bad and Money Heist, what's yours? Any Netflix recommendations would be much appreciated. I love the group fitness classes as I HATE running, and I imagine everyone in the class is my close friend and we are at a dance party so if that's you too, I would definitely recommend coming along!

Garry Twomey

Hi, I teach 1 of the Les Mills group fitness classes – RPM. With RPM I have participants who have had success in toning up, losing weight and looking forward to the next class of the challenging indoor cycling workout without the hassles of traffic and the weather. See you there.

Helen Jayne

Hi I’m Helen and I take Body Balance classes at Evolve Fitness where I have worked part time for nearly 15yrs as a Group Fitness Instructor although I’ve been in the industry since Wellington 1988. At home/work is my hubby and we’ve got 3 grown daughters that’s resulted in 6 grandchildren ranging from 0-13yrs old. We also love animals. Fortunately family are mainly local so between them, my 2 p/t jobs, the smooth running of home and garden and caravan getaways, time is generally well occupied.

Helen Luoni

Hi I’m Helen and I’ve been at Evolve in Feilding since February 2017 though I’ve been involved with the fitness industry as an instructor for over 24 years! OMG! As a kid I was into competitive gymnastics and then in my early twenties reignited my love of dance and became a performer and a dance instructor. I have lived in 4 different countries, however the longest I’ve lived anywhere was Taihape.

I’ve been married to Simon for almost 28 years and have 16 year old twins Luca and Sophie. I currently teach Body Pump at Evolve.

I enjoy the season of summer, reading, attempting cryptic crosswords, tennis, walking our dog Louis, stand up paddle boarding and spending time with my family. I have my own business providing on-site chair massage to busy professionals in both Feilding and Palmerston North. I love both my jobs as they keep me fit and I meet a lot of people.

Lisa Mordaunt

Hey, I'm Lisa and I am a BodyStep and BodyBalance Les Mills Instructor. Group Fitness is my passion and I have been hooked ever since I attended my first class as a teenager. Originally from the UK, I am now lucky enough to call New Zealand my home. I live with my brilliant husband, and had our three gorgeous little ladies in Palmy North. Outside the gym we are super busy running a business, whilst leading a full and active life; full of activities, sports, events and adventures.

I originally trained as an Instructor while at home with my babies, to turn my passion into a reality (and motivate myself back into shape). My goal is to bring energy, knowledge and heaps of enthusiasm, to each and every class. I love seeing people inspired, having fun, and achieving their own unique fitness goals.

Liz Ansley

Hi my name is Liz, I have been with Evolve fitness for a few years now. I teach the Swiss ball classes. Fitness has always been a passion of mine and I really enjoy the interaction with all the people at Evolve Fitness. We love going for coffees after class.  We live on a Lifestyle block with our two dogs Molly and Brooke. My husband Kev and I have three grown children and have seven grandchildren who we enjoy immensely.

Neil Bryant

Kia ora koutou ko Neil taku ingoa
Ko ngapuhi to iwi
Apiti to kainga
Hi my name is Neil Bryant I am currently taking the Thai Boxing fitness class each Monday at 5.10pm
My main hobbies are bone and wood carving. The sports I enjoy are rugby and obviously muay thai.
Have been involved in thai boxing for 22 years as it also offers great fitness and self esteem

Kate Skinner

Hi, I’m Kate and I’m a class instructor and customer liaison at Evolve. I currently teach the low impact class on Thursday morning and fingers crossed will be teaching some Les Mills classes in the very near future! I grew up in Wellington and moved to Feilding in 2021. I absolutely fell in love with Evolve, and routinely joked with the staff “I live at the gym, so I might as well get paid for it” and so here I am!!

Megan Hennessy - Admin

I'm Megan and I've been with Evolve Fitness for just over 2 years with a short gap in there. Myself and my family have been through alot lately and coming to the gym is so good for my mental health. You'll often see me joining in on the step and pump classes. I have zero coordination but I give it a go and feel so great afterwards.
I love that everyone here is working towards being the healthiest, fittest, strongest version of themselves and for their family. Everyone is here because they want to be.
I also enjoy traveling with my family, not only overseas but in this beautiful country that we live in.
I've been back at Evolve for a while now and I'm really enjoying seeing all the new faces and catching up with the regulars.

Janine Jackson - Admin

Hi, I’m Janine, I joined the Evolve team in July as an Administrator, covering maternity leave.
I was born in Feilding and have spent my life here. I am very fortunate to have a wonderful family with my husband and three gorgeous children, as well as having my parents, two brothers and two sisters. Family is very special to me.
I enjoy learning, spending time with friends, movies, baking, walks and the beach – especially at Mount Maunganui.
Evolve Fitness is a great place to be a part of. The team are friendly, welcoming and fun. If you are thinking of joining then come in and say hi, I look forward to seeing you in the gym.

Sue Dyer - Admin

Hi, I’m Sue and I am born and bred in Feilding. Some of you may know I am Ross’s little sister, aren’t I lucky to be working with my big brother once again? We worked together several years ago when our father had a retail store in Feilding. I have 5 children, 3 of whom are grown up and moved away however I still have 2 younger ones at home. That keeps me busy with all the running to and fro. We live just out of town on a few acres where we raise a handful of animals and grow a great vege garden. There is nothing better sitting down to dinner and everything on my plate coming off our little piece of paradise.

Sarah Swinbanks - Customer Liaison

Health and fitness has always been a big part of my life. I competed in many sports as a child before moving overseas to the USA and Hong Kong in my late teens to play rugby at a higher level. After a concussion in 2020 that transformed my life, I adapted my mindset and way of living to live to my full potential and restarted my health and fitness journey. I became certified as a Health and Wellness coach to assist people to live their lives with energy and empowerment. I thrive to help people be the best that they can be. I love to laugh, I love to dance and I love being a part of the Evolve Fitness whanau

Kate Skinner - Customer Liaison

Hi, I’m Kate and I’m a class instructor and customer liaison at Evolve. I currently teach the low impact class on Thursday and fingers crossed will be teaching some Les Mills classes in the future! I grew up in Wellington and moved to Feilding in 2021. I absolutely fell in love with Evolve, and routinely joked with the staff “I live at the gym, so I might as well get paid for it” I’ve always been interested in fitness, this led me complete a personal training certification, out of interest. I’ve tried everything - endurance, hypertrophy, strength, and mobility. My biggest weakness is that I enjoy too many different types of training and can’t stick to one thing. I love pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. This has resulted in a lot of different interests. I am a builder in training, member of the Feilding volunteer firefighting brigade, and love performing - whether its acting, improvisation, or stand-up comedy.

Sarah Stoney - Cleaning crew

Tena Koutou Katoa – Greetings, my name is Sarah and I joined the fantastic crew at Evolve Fitness last year. I work three days a week as a gym cleaner and although I love the flexibility the job offers, mostly it’s coming to mahi where everyone (staff included) is happy and friendly. Whanau and a greater work-life balance were the motivation behind a break from a career as a self-employed rural midwife. Currently, I am undertaking post-grad studies towards a qualification as a Lactation Consultant. I was raised on a sheep and beef farm and this experience shaped my ‘can do’ attitude in life. Getting back to my love of fitness has been absolutely awesome. I also have more time in my flower and vegetable garden and enjoy preserving and cooking with my homegrown bounty. My other interests include; house renovations, reading gusty crime novels, and road trips on the motorbike with my partner.