Call us today on  0433 961 462

Ben Longley

Meet Ben and learn more about him

Ben has been a PT for over 15 years and has worked with hundreds of clients over that time in both a private and group setting. Ben has a certificate IV in fitness & studied Health Science (Human anatomy & physiology) at La Trobe University.

He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) with the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) and is certified to conduct the Functional Movement Screen (FMS), a ranking and grading system that screens movement quality and movement patterns that are key to normal function & injury prevention. The FMS is used world wide amongst professional athletes and sporting teams including NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA, as well as Special Ops military personnel.

Ben is also a Precision Nutrition certified Level 1 coach. Ben has always had a strong interest in the human body and the many facets of health, fitness, performance & nutrition. He adopts a mindset of ‘constant learning’, with a love & appreciation of science and critical thinking, and an open mind that likes to ‘think outside the box’.

Ben has an eclectic approach to his training style, and draws from various training modalities to help his clients reach their goals, ranging from:

– General Strength & Conditioning
– ‘Functional Movement’
– Corrective exercise & rehab
– Powerlifting
– Bodybuilding
– Martial Arts (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Kickboxing)

Whilst cliched, the Bruce Lee quote ‘Adopt what is useful, reject what is useless’ has always resonated with Ben and perfectly describes his approach to health, fitness, training and life in general. Ben is married with 3 boys aged 13, 10 and 7 so needs to stay fit & strong to keep up with them!

WHAT WE DO

1 on 1 Personal Training

A completely individualized service with the focus and attention on YOU from start to finish.

Group Training Sessions

We run small group PT sessions every morning and evening, consisting of between 4-8 people.

Functional movement screen

The Functional Movement Screen is a world renowned ranking & grading system.

I’ve been training at Fitstop for a few years. The team are really awesome and focus on individual needs and help you to work towards and achieve your goals. It suits all levels of fitness and it’s a fun place to be after work with a group or early in the day in a private session.

Noeline Bugaj

I have been training at The Fit Stop twice a week for a year now and I can’t recommend it highly enough! I had never been to personal training before and was a bit scared but that soon disappeared as The Fit Stop is such a welcoming, supportive and friendly environment! My goal was to simply tone up my body and I can definitely see significant changes and definition in my arms, legs and glutes. Ben is a wonderful trainer and I have learnt so much about the body, exercise and correct technique from him. I look forward to setting new goals for myself and with the teams help at The Fit Stop I know I can achieve them.

Georgia Latham

The Fit Stop is the first gym I’ve been to where I’ve actually achieved real results and got a healthy outlook on weight loss and exercise! The team are very professional and welcoming and experts in their field. Highly recommend training here.

Leonie Dawkins

Really great trainers and good environment for achieving your goals

Hamka Fadhilla

Matt and Ben are great trainers!! I highly recommend them. Small classes, emphasise technique, and very knowledgeable!

Leanne Clayton

Ben and his team at Fit Stop are fantastic. Very personable and have created a great, friendly and no intimidating environment to train. I’ve had gym memberships etc. before but would only go for a couple of months at a time and then give up. So when I started at Fit Stop, my only goal was to keep turning up. I’ve been training at Fit Stop twice a week for over four years now and love it!

Chris Beattie

I have been training with Ben & Matt for over three years and it has been without a doubt the best training I have ever done (and I have been a long term fitness/gym participant!) Focus is around creating long term, sustainable health routines and I love how strong it has made me. Group training is more fun than solo but the small group sizes also allow for individual tailoring if you need something more/less or are carrying an injury. Thanks FitStop I highly recommend you!

Sonia

I’ve worked out with Ben and Matt at The FitStop for more than four years now. They’re not only knowledgeable trainers—they also genuinely care. Ben and Matt have helped me modify my sessions to deal with my chronic knee issues, and my pain has decreased through building strength. I kept working out with The FitStop during and after my pregnancies too. They kept me feeling motivated and healthy both pre and post bub. I can’t recommend The FitStop highly enough for anyone looking for functional training in a super welcoming environment!

Kendall Richmond

Great place to increase fitness and strength. Staff all very knowledgeable and helpful

Julia Doughty

Ben and Matt at The Fit Stop are both very knowledgeable and passionate about your fitness and general well being. I do the small group training but they take the time to adjust this to accomodate your personal needs. They are also motivating and supportive. You’ll find loads of great guys at this gym who have trained with Ben and Matt for a long time which I think is testament to how great The Fit Stop is. If you’re looking for a place to train and find the fitter you, you won’t find anywhere better in St Kilda East.

Angela Masterton

I’ve been going for 5 months now and it’s incredible, trainers are class, really seeing results and there is a lovely vibe. Everyone is friendly and approachable. Highly recommend to anyone that wants to train efficiently and see results.

Michelle O'Reilly

I have been training at The Fit Stop for almost three years now. Originally encouraged by Ben, after being quite sick and niggling back issues. From my initial hesitation because it had been so long since I had been at the gym I have grown in confidence and strength. The expertise as the trainers guide you through either a ‘one on one’ or ‘group session’ is fantastic. The program for training varies in each class and technique and movement is closely advised. I love training at The Fit Stop for the results it has brought to my health and wellbeing.

Elizabeth Sparrow

All of the trainers are so professional and well credentialed. Whether you are looking to do a group class or a one on one I highly recommend the Fit Stop. I like the fact that one of the trainers will go through an introduction with you to see where you are at and then place you in a training environment that will benefit you the most. All of the equipment is state of the art and up to date.

Robert Kirkham

Highly recommend The Fit Stop for anyone looking for a fun, friendly place to learn great technique. Ben and the team are very knowledgeable and take the time to tailor the small group sessions to individuals. They’re super family friendly too!

Louise Kirby

I have been going to these guys twice a week for nearly three years. As a man in his sixties with arthritic knees Matt devised a training program that has enhanced the muscles around my knees which has dramatically lessened the pain while toning the rest of me up. I have since moved interstate so unfortunately can not now attend but would recommend Ben, Matt and Fit Stop St Kilda for not only their professionalism but for the friendship that grew!
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Trevor Pickard

6 years here and still going strong. The best trainers around.

Neil Ritchie

Working a corporate role means long days and sedentary work. Joining the Fit Stop several years ago has allowed me not only to build incredible strength, but provide a space where I can also build resilience for work and home. I could not recommend all of the trainers more highly for their care, expertise and passion for what they love.

Emma B

I’ve been training at Fit Stop for around 8 years now. It’s welcoming and down to earth, and the trainers are great. Ben, Matt and the team always push me to get the best out of my sessions, and regular training has sorted out my back problems. Highly recommended!

Kris H

This is a truly excellent gym. Ben, Matt and the other trainers are highly qualified, and their deep understanding of physiology, fitness and the pressures of our busy lives make them thoughtful and patient in their holistic approach to exercise. I really like the way that they focus on rigorous technique, and as a result, I’ve been able to achieve things that I never would have expected for myself. Ben and Matt are really lovely guys, who make the experience a very welcoming one. They know when to push you, and when to give you alternatives to account for injuries or limitations. Since having a kid, it’s been wonderful to get back into exercise in a safe and methodical way. It’s a wonderful place

Katherine Cozens

I’ve been training at The Fit Stop for 9 years. The expertise and skill of Ben and his team is exceptional, as is the personalised support. But equally unique is the sense of community – it’s such a supportive, friendly and welcoming place to train. No big egos or skimpy gear here! I trained right through my pregnancy and returned 5 weeks after having my daughter, who regularly comes with me to the gym and has always been more than welcome! I’m stronger than I was before having a child. I can’t speak highly enough of The Fit Stop.

Katrina Alford

I’ve been doing small group training at The Fit Stop for nearly five years now. This is the only gym I have ever stuck with long term and its been a great investment in my health and fitness. The guys are friendly and super knowledgeable. Ben and Matt will tailor programs to meet your needs and ability, plus there is a real sense of community here. I highly recommend giving The Fit Stop a go!

R Olle

I’ve done a mix of the small group training and private PT sessions with Matt and Ben for years now and would highly recommend The Fit Stop! Their attention to technique is fantastic and Matt’s PT sessions have been fantastic in building strength to help with lower back issues. Plus a friendly atmosphere to top it off!

Natalie Sparkman

Great guys who I completely trust and always go the extra mile. They’ve always accommodated to my personal needs and care about you succeeding. Highly recommended.

Robert Powell

Fantastic trainers who are really passionate about helping clients get fit and strong. I have been training at Fit Stop for around 8 years now and love it. Every session we do different things which keeps it fresh and challenging. The group numbers are limited so the trainers can keep an eye on individuals and assist with technique or modify the excercise to suit. Its a great environment with a friendly and approachable team. And its fun. Give it a try!