Clinician Leader and Exercise Physiologist, Josh Miller has been in Hobart almost long enough to call himself a local.

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up in a small town on the edge of the Otways in Victoria called Colac. My wife and I moved to Hobart seven and a half years ago and now live in Blackmans Bay.

Tell us a little about your work? I am an exercise physiologist at Kieser Hobart, so I get to support people to become a healthier version of themselves. Generally, the people I see will be struggling with their mobility and weight, or illnesses like diabetes, lung and heart disease, cancers, pain and other chronic conditions.

What sparked your passion for health and fitness? As a kid I played every sport on offer to me, but predominantly I was a swimmer. Unfortunately as I progressed and was selected for various development squads, I suffered from shoulder pain which took me out of the water and ended my career. Seeing physiotherapists for many years during my career I became very interested in anatomy and physiology, and that passion and curiosity has never subsided.

How do you balance being an exercise physiologist, business owner, and your personal life? With incredible support from my wife Sam, who also works full time as an emergency nurse, and good communication with the people important to me. We make time for each other and the things we know give us energy and joy. Running, catching up with friends for coffee or lunch regularly, getting outdoors to rock climb and being grateful for every moment I get to spend with Sam and Mavis, my three year old daughter. Life can get busy, but each of these things are important they are a privilege to have.

What’s special about the Keiser method? Kieser’s method of allied health led strength training is very unique, but not new. The method of training we use isolates muscles and creates a very safe environment for high intensity strength work. Not huff and puff intensity, but slow and controlled strength exercises performed to the point of fatigue. This helps us create time efficient training, where you can achieve your strength goals in two to three sessions of just 30 minutes a week.

Any tips for those wanting to make health a priority? Think about “why” you want to make your health a priority; ask the deeper question. Human beings rarely act on the intellectual knowledge that being healthy is good for me so therefore I will do it. We need something that drives us, the “why”. It could be to walk/ run to the Point to Pinnacle, it could be to go on a holiday to New Zealand and hike a mountain, it could be to keep up with the kids or grandkids. Whatever it is, it has to be honest and something that would deeply disappoint you if your health was the reason you weren’t able to do the thing. Lastly, seek help. If you want to make your health a priority but you haven’t yet, or don’t know where to start, ask for help. I know some good people that would love to work with you!

What do you love doing outside work? Outside of work I love doing things outside. I have taken up trail and ultra running in the past couple of years and have loved the challenge of it, as well as the places my own two feet can take me. Recently I ran the Overland Track in a day and also ran 62km through Takayna and fundraised for the Tarkine Ultra.

Who do you admire? So many people – but broadly, those brave enough to write their own story.

Favourite podcast or tv show? My favourite podcast is The Drive with Peter Attia and television show is Mindhunter.

Secret vice? A late night snack.

What are you reading now? I just finished reading The File on H a very interesting satirical novel by Ismail Kadare.

What gets your goat? The destruction of our natural environment for economic gain.

What was your first job? My first job was sweeping floors and cleaning tractors at my dad’s farm machinery business.

What are your daily news/social media habits? I don’t look at news daily, it will distract me from what’s important. Social media – I only use Instagram, and according to my phone I use it 32 minutes a day.

Your favourite place (in Hobart) for… Breakfast: Bear With Me. Lunch: Sunbear. Dinner: The Winston.

Favourite team? Chicago Bulls.

Favourite Hobart secret? Where to find the best coffee…

Parting words? Choose Life.