WORDS BY ERICA NEWTON, MYFIRSTGYM CO-FOUNDER
For years I ran around as the classic Uber-driver-part-time-chef-full-time-problem-solver (also known as a Mum/Mom/Mama). If you’re anything like me, you’ll know just how easy it is to fall into the trap of signing up for a million classes, only to spend your life in your car, racing from one activity to the next. Meanwhile, your bank account quietly weeps. Let’s be honest, kids change their minds faster than they change socks, so the last thing I wanted was to sign up for a season or year-long commitment that ended up feeling more like a chore than a fun experience.
There had to be a better way. (And spoiler! Dry those eyes: there’s a special code below.)
I wanted to create a space that would make both kids and parents happy. A place where kids could try out fun activities without the huge commitment or bank-breaking costs. Somewhere parents didn’t feel like they were on the verge of a meltdown every time they thought about school pick-ups, drop-offs, and the dreaded never-ending schedule.
And so together with my husband Dan, MyFirstGym was born.
Why We Started the MyFirstGym
It all came down to one simple thing: convenience.
We wanted something flexible. Something that allowed my kids to dip their toes into new activities without feeling they had to choose one thing and stick with it for the next six months (or longer!) We also wanted to make sure it wasn’t going to cost an arm and a leg, because let’s face it: the cost of living crisis is hitting us all.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), inflation reached 6.8% in 2024, continuing to affect everyday Australians. The cost of living is now at its highest point in over 30 years, which has made budgeting even more challenging for families. The increase in the prices of basic goods and services, including housing and food, has left many struggling to find affordable options for their children’s activities (ABS, 2024). In fact, 70% of Australian households have reported cutting back on non-essential expenses, like extracurricular activities, to make ends meet.
A One-Stop Shop for Busy Parents.
That’s where MyFirstGym comes in. It’s not just a gym; it’s a place where your kids can try everything from gymnastics to dance, ninja warrior-style obstacle courses, and even some yoga – all in one spot. The best part? You’re not paying months of fees for something your kid will hate next week. Book classes one at a time, so if your child decides they love gymnastics but then want to try something else next month, no problem! There’s no long-term commitment required, and we won’t be sending you a bill for the entire year upfront.
Our memberships provide parents with maximum flexibility:
- No lock-in contracts.
- Visit either 1, 2 or 3-4 classes per week.
- Use the handy MyFirstGym app to make your class bookings.
- Book classes to suit your family schedule, no matter what’s happening during the week (music recital, anyone?)
- Utilise our ‘drop&go’ system, date nights (aka MyFirstGym babysitting) and experience a friendly, community vibe.
We’re all about flexibility here – both for your kids and for you, the parent. Think of it as your ‘one-stop-shop’ for all things kids’ activities, where you don’t have to deal with the hassle of multiple bookings, different locations and uniforms, and endless paperwork.
I mean, who’s got time for that? Not me, that’s for sure. So why should you have to?
Affordable, Flexible, and Fussy-Kid-Approved.
Nearly 72% of parents reported that the rising cost of living, especially in housing and groceries, has made them more cautious about their spending, including limiting or cancelling subscriptions and activities that aren’t strictly necessary (AIFS, 2024). It’s a challenge we all face: I feel it every time I go to Colesworth or open the electricity bill. The rising cost of childcare and education has added even more pressure! According to a report from the Australian Child Care Alliance, childcare fees have risen by 16% this year alone, leaving many families unable to afford high-quality care and programs for their kids (Australian Child Care Alliance, 2024). As a result, families are turning to more affordable, flexible alternatives like MyFirstGym, which can offer a safe, active environment without the hefty price tag. The bonus? We’re inspiring
Our Offer To Busy Parents!
MyFirstGym wants to help Aussie families right now, which is why our current promotion is an absolute winner: $0 Enrolment fees. With no lock in contract and no set class times, you can make kids fitness work for you. Join now at a participating club on any of our flexible memberships and pay no enrolment fee. Just use the code FLEX$0 at checkout!
The Bottom Line: More Fun, Less Stress.
I’ve learned the hard way that being a busy parent shouldn’t mean sacrificing quality experiences for your kids. If you’re looking for a gym that your kids will love (and will ease your state of panic trying to juggle everything) MyFirstGym is for you. No more worrying about expensive, long-term commitments or feeling like you’re constantly running on empty. We’ve got you covered.
You don’t have to be a gym expert to love our classes. All you need is the desire to make life easier, and we’ll take care of the rest!
Look for a branch near you and join up today!