VANDERBIJLPARK. — Local fitness trainer, Simo Supana, is following closely in the footsteps of Elsa Storm, the famously demanding former Kaizer Chiefs fitness coach.

Storm made history in the mid-2000s as the first woman to work in the male-dominated Premier Soccer League (PSL), setting a standard for others to follow at a time when it was not fashionable to do so.

Inspired by that legacy, the 33-year-old Supana has built a strong reputation as a personal trainer, fitness coach, and entrepreneur over several years in the industry.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Supana explained that her business, Simo Wellness Co (formerly Fit-nessBySimo), focuses on weight loss, weight management, toning, shaping, and various other wellness needs. Rather than promoting restrictive diets, she advocates for healthy, sustainable eating habits with a heavy focus on hydration and whole foods.

Supana achieved national recognition during her breakthrough year in 2017, when she was named a top five finalist in the Women’s Health South Africa ‘Next Fitness Star’ competition and appeared on SABC’s Expresso Show.

Today, she also volunteers to provide fitness training for local development teams to promote a healthy lifestyle within her community.

Looking to the future, Supana aims to bring her expertise to the highest level of South African football.

“It is my dream to help these players reach their highest level of competition,” she said.

Supana credits Storm for proving that women can succeed in men’s football, noting that Storm’s influence motivated many female fitness trainers working in the industry today.