Source: ExerciseNZ
The Exercise New Zealand Industry Awards 2025 were held on Saturday 29 November in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, hosted at the luxurious Hilton on the vibrant waterfront. For over two decades, the Awards have shone a light on the incredible work happening across Aotearoa’s exercise sector.
This year, Sierra Ryland’s remarkable dedication to uplifting others has been recognised with the Personal Trainer of the Year Award for 2025. The Personal Trainer of the Year Award recognises professionals who demonstrate exceptional commitment, capability, and impact within their communities. Sierra’s remarkable dedication to empowering women, and her specialised expertise in MumSafe training, postpartum running and female-specific performance has been recognised with the Personal Trainer of the Year Award for 2025.
Judges praised Sierra for her professionalism, resilience, and deep sense of purpose:
“Tēnā koe Sierra. Good to see the custom prescreens for this defined niche and resulting focused programmes. How you have managed to grow your business so successfully from a wheelchair and crutches is beyond me. And what an inspiring bunch of achievements. Well done.”
Sierra’s dedication to client care was also highlighted as a defining strength:
“Your client care and purpose for helping others is evident throughout your application.”
Her technical capability was acknowledged too, particularly in programme design:
“Great breakdown of the side plank and its progressions and regressions… Overall, you’ve shown a strong connection to what your clients’ motivators are and a firm awareness of your scope of practice.”
Sierra’s story is one of resilience, determination, and genuine care for people. Her ability to overcome significant challenges while building a successful business and delivering meaningful outcomes for clients is a testament to her character and professionalism.
At ExerciseNZ, we celebrate Sierra’s inspiring contribution to the exercise industry and congratulate her on being named Personal Trainer of the Year 2025. These awards continue to highlight the dedication of individuals and organisations committed to empowering New Zealanders through movement. For more information on the Exercise New Zealand industry awards, or to view all finalists visit https://www.exercise.org.nz/2025-finalists/.
