Toni Sassine

About Coach

Toni Sassine has been a dedicated part of the fitness industry since 2013.His journey began on the rugby league field, where he played for 13 years, representing teams like the Parramatta Eels and earning the privilege of playing for Lebanon in a test match against Canada. Known for his leadership qualities, Toni captained nearly every team he played for, demonstrating his natural ability to inspire and guide others toward success.

Toni’s passion for helping others started on the rugby field, where he thrived on supporting his teammates and steering them toward greatness. This passion seamlessly carried over into his coaching career, which began as a hobby while he was still playing football. What started as a side project quickly gained momentum, and Toni made the bold decision to go all in on his coaching business, STEPUP Health & Fitness.

In addition to being a successful coach, Toni discovered a love for competitive fitness. In 2019, he proved himself as one of Australia’s fittest athletes, finishing 3rd in the F45 National Playoffs. His journey then led him to CrossFit, where he has consistently ranked in the top 2–3% of athletes across Oceania. Toni also found success in the global Hyrox fitness community, qualifying for the Hyrox World Championships two years in a row, further solidifying his status as an elite-level athlete.

Toni firmly believes that fitness begins with the mind. His mantra is simple yet powerful: "If you can see it, believe it, then you can achieve it." With a passion for inspiring others and a wealth of experience as both an athlete and a coach, Toni is committed to helping people unlock their full potential—both physically and mentally.

Turning Point

In 2016, I hit a low point in my life. I had gone into business with another gym, but our visions didn’t align, leaving me feeling stuck and without direction. I ended up working on a jobsite, falling into bad eating habits, gaining weight, and living without structure or purpose. I felt completely lost.

One hot summer day, I was shovelling sand with my shirt off when I caught a glimpse of myself in a mirror. Around me, my co-workers were drinking cans of energy drinks, eating junk food, smoking cigarettes—living a lifestyle I knew wasn’t me. At that moment, I realised I needed to change.

In 2017, I found a job at F45 and re-opened STEPUP Health &Fitness, reigniting my passion for coaching and fitness. Shortly after, I entered the F45 Playoffs competition, an experience that completely transformed my life. Competing at Manly Beach that day, I hit rock bottom physically—I had never felt so exhausted and defeated. I sat there for 30 minutes, almost ready to pass out, but something in me ignited. As I looked at the competition floor, I made a promise to myself: I will become a champion in this sport one day.

From that moment, I overhauled my life. I committed to eating only wholefoods, training relentlessly for 2 hours a day, and giving everything I had to this new chapter. I transformed my body, going from over 20% body fat down to 4%, and with that transformation, the magic started to happen.

That turning point not only changed my life physically but also gave me purpose, direction, and a relentless drive to inspire others to achieve their own greatness.

Motivation & Passion

When I first opened STEPUP Health & Fitness in 2013, my mission was clear: to improve the health and well-being of individuals in my community. Over a decade later, that goal remains unchanged, and I’m incredibly grateful to have transformed hundreds of lives during my journey as a coach.

I believe that every person is put on this earth for a reason, and we all have unique potential within us. My purpose is to help people unlock that potential—to become fitter, stronger, and the best versions of themselves, both physically and mentally.

Throughout my coaching career, I’ve witnessed incredible transformations. I’ve seen clients shed over 40 kilograms, go from struggling to lift an empty barbell to deadlifting more than twice their body weight, run their first City to Surf, and even compete in their first fitness competition. I’ve watched parents regain the energy to keep up with their kids, individuals gain the confidence to step outside their comfort zones, and so much more. These moments fuel my passion and remind me why I love what I do.

I’m passionate about coaching individuals who are ready to commit to the process, work hard, and embrace the challenge of self-improvement. Whether you’re taking your first step into fitness or looking to reach new heights, my goal is to guide and support you on your journey. If you’re ready to show up and give it your best, I'd be honoured to be your coach.