Dr. Susan Baxter, PhD
Speaker · Educator · Consultant
Building Strong Systems for Real People
With a PhD in exercise for chronic illness and over 16 years in the fitness industry, Dr. Susan Baxter is a speaker, educator, and consultant who has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between academic research and real-world practice.
Susan works with studios, coaches, fitness brands, and organisations to build systems that are evidence-based, practical, and built to last. Her specialty lies in helping fitness professionals understand chronic conditions, neurodivergence, fatigue, rehab — and how to coach clients through all of it without burning out.
"I don't just teach people how to program. I teach them how to lead."
PhD • 16+ Yrs
"Not just how to program. How to lead without burning out."
Credentials & Approach
PhD in Exercise for Chronic Illness
Research-backed methodology for working with clients who have chronic conditions, pain, fatigue, and complex health histories.
16+ Years Industry Experience
From one-on-one coaching to studio systems, corporate wellness, and keynote speaking — Susan has done the work at every level.
B2B Consulting Focus
Specialising in helping fitness professionals build sustainable businesses through better systems, smarter programming, and deeper client relationships.
Where You'll Find Her
Services for Fitness Professionals
1:1 Coach Mentoring
Sharpen your coaching brain. Understand chronic conditions, neurodivergence, fatigue, and rehab. Build longevity into your practice and your career.
"Not just how to program. How to lead without burning out."Book a Discovery Call
— Thom Moore, Client
Coach Mentoring
Studio & Gym Consulting
Onboarding systems, staff development, class design, and operational workflows that turn your studio into a scalable, sustainable business.
"Good systems don't rely on vibe. They scale because they work."Let's Talk
— Lisa Streeter, Client
Studio Consulting
Corporate Wellness
Sustainable movement strategies for organisations. On-site and remote solutions designed around real workplace cultures and needs — not cookie-cutter programs.
- Culture-led movement interventions
- On-site & remote delivery options
- Evidence-based wellness architecture
Corporate Wellness
Speaking, Panels & Keynotes
Academic credibility meets real industry experience. Susan brings depth, energy, and actionable insight to conferences, panels, workshops, and corporate events.
- Keynote presentations
- Panel discussions
- Workshop facilitation
Speaking & Keynotes
Systems & Programs
Proven frameworks designed for fitness professionals who want to level up their business and their impact.
Mastermind Membership
An exclusive community of fitness professionals committed to growth, accountability, and evidence-based practice.
Lead Generation
51+ proven methods to attract and convert the right clients — tested in real studios, refined over a decade.
Client Retention
Systems that keep clients coming back. Reduce churn, build loyalty, and create lasting results.
Client Acquisition
Strategic frameworks for filling your books with clients who are ready, willing, and aligned with your approach.
Star Quality
Semi-private and small group training models that deliver premium experiences at scale.
Business Structures
From sole trader to scalable entity — understand the business architecture that supports your growth.
Trusted by Fitness Professionals
Thom Moore — Client
Susan is Melbourne's best holistic personal trainer and coach. Susan's doctorate qualifications in physiology, nutrition and psychology translate seamlessly into a science-based, individualised program. Susan combines a keen intellect with the most wonderful people skills and inspiring levels of energy and enthusiasm. She is passionate about her vocation and cares deeply about her clients and their progress. I am a busy professional, but in 10 months Susan has transformed my physique, replaced bad habits with good, heightened my self-awareness and significantly improved my wellbeing. All done in a combination of private development sessions and with great team members in a fully equipped studio, involving lots of fun and support.
Lisa Streeter — Client
I started training with Susan in July 2021. My initial focus was to work on niggles that were related to my hypo-mobility particularly my “winging” shoulders and the issues that they created. My goals were to move more freely, build strength and become leaner. Susan provided expert advice, support and coaching together with some “humour”, all of which has been wonderful in helping me achieve my goals. In addition to the workouts, Susan has guided and supported me in changing my diet which has been an easy transition and results have been amazing. I am leaner, stronger and feel great.. thanks to Susan. Susan is professional and friendly...... and a fabulous PT. Highly recommend.
Richard Pearson
I cannot recommend Suze more highly. She is highly qualified but she also cares deeply about her individual clients and their progress. I started working with her when I had a bad back, which is now better. I am much fitter and stronger and have lost over 10kg. I now feel so much better about myself and my future. Highly recommended.
Ready to Build Better Systems?
Whether you're a studio owner, a coach, or a corporate leader — let's talk about what's possible.
Book a Free Discovery Call