Missy Robinson

Introducing Missy Robinson, the winner of our inaugural annual Women’s Fitness Cover Star competition! Missy has had a major glow-up in recent years, and is the perfect example, at 46, of how you can change your life with hard work and discipline. This made her the perfect winner, and we’re so happy to share her journey.

STATUS UPDATE: 


FULL NAME: Missy Robinson
HOMETOWN: Gold Coast
BORN: 7 March 1979
INSTAGRAM: missyrobinson_
Website: www.missysworld.com.au
SNAPCHAT: shivering_gold

So, Missy, you won our Cover Star competition. Congratulations! How did it feel to win?
Winning the Women’s Fitness Cover Star competition was so surreal! When I found out, I had to do a double take—I couldn’t believe it was real. Out of 1,500 international entrants and 10 finalists, I was chosen, and that feeling was absolutely incredible.
This win is so much more than just a title—it’s a full-circle moment in my journey. I’ve completely rebuilt myself—physically, mentally, and emotionally—and to now be recognised in this way is proof that resilience, hard work, and self-belief can take people places they never imagined. I’m beyond honoured and grateful for everyone who supported me through this!

You’ve had a massive transformation, what caused you to do it and how?
My transformation was about so much more than just weight loss—it was about reclaiming myself and my life after losing my way. As a result of a traumatic incident during my time in the Australian Army, I developed a complex mental illness that completely shifted how I saw myself and the world around me. I felt disconnected, stuck in survival mode, and over time, I gained a lot of weight and lost myself. The weight gain wasn’t just physical—it was emotional, mental, and symbolic of everything I was carrying.
I reached a point where I knew I couldn’t keep going like that. I was tired of feeling trapped in my own body, tired of letting my struggles define me. I had a choice—stay stuck or fight for the life I deserved. I knew what I wanted for myself and my future so I chose to fight.

How did I do it? By rebuilding my life in a way that felt right for me. I focused on movement that I actually enjoyed—dancing, walking my dog daily, and being active doing the things I love, like getting out on the water and jet skiing. It wasn’t about forcing myself into gym sessions I hated or following strict rules—it was about finding joy in movement again.
I also took control of my diet getting a Certificate in Food and Nutrition to understand what I was putting in my mouth and what it did to my body. I stopped chasing quick fixes and did the deep work—mentally and emotionally—so that my transformation wasn’t just about looking different, but actually feeling different from the inside out.
Yes I lost 60kg and have been able to keep it off, but the mental transformation I feel is much more significant.
I now have a program and resources available to teach others how to do the same. Being able to transform my trauma into triumph and inspire and help others has been so empowering.

Do you have a morning routine that you swear by?
Absolutely! My morning routine is non-negotiable because it sets the tone for my entire day. I wake up at 6:15AM every morning and the first thing I do is take my dog for a walk. It’s not just about getting my steps in—it’s my way of clearing my head, setting my intentions, and starting the day on a strong note.
That time outside, moving my body, breathing in fresh air, and just being present helps me shake off any stress and get into the right mindset for the day ahead. It’s a small ritual, but it makes a massive difference in how I show up—not just for myself, but in my work, my goals, and everything I do.

How do you stay motivated on days when you don’t feel like working out?
I don’t believe in forcing myself to do workouts that feel like a chore, so I never feel pressure or guilt if I’m not in the mood. My movement is built around fun activities I actually enjoy—jet skiing, dancing, roller skating, walking my dog—so it never feels like a punishment or something I have to do.
On days when I’m not feeling it, I listen to my body. Some days that means moving in a different way—maybe a slower walk instead of something intense—or just resting completely. I’ve learned that movement should be something you love, not something you force. That’s what keeps me consistent in the long run.

If you’re not in activewear at the gym, where can we find you and what are you most likely to be doing?
If I’m not in activewear at the gym—because let’s be real, you’ll never find me there—you’ll probably find me out with friends, travelling or doing some kind of fun activity like shark cage diving or swimming with whales and seals.
I’m all about adventure and experiences, so I’m often out trying new restaurants, going to unique events, or planning my next trip. I also love a good bucket list challenge, so if there’s something exciting or adrenaline-fueled happening, I’m probably in! And of course, when I need to recharge, I’ll be at home with my dog, balancing all the social energy with some much-needed quiet time

We live in an age of social media where people have more access than ever to our lives and are quick to judge. How do you handle negative comments or criticism online and in real life?
I’m lucky that I don’t really experience much negativity, whether online or in real life. I think a big part of that is because I’ve worked hard to be authentic in everything I share—the good, the bad, and the ugly. I don’t just show the highlight reel; I keep it real, and I think people resonate with that.
When you’re genuine and unapologetically yourself, people either connect with you or they move along—and I’m totally okay with that. I don’t waste energy worrying about judgement or negativity because at the end of the day, I know who I am and what I stand for. I’ve worked too hard on myself to create my dream life and being well, that I don’t have time for judgement from others. At the end of the day you can’t control what people think or say so focus on doing you and being happy.

What self-care strategies do you use to maintain positive mental health?
For me, self-care is about doing things that genuinely make me happy and prioritising what fills my cup. It’s not just about bubble baths and face masks (though I love a good pamper session); it’s about living in alignment with what brings me joy.
That means spending time doing the things I truly love and enjoy and surrounding myself with people who uplift and inspire me. I also make sure to take time for myself—whether that’s setting boundaries to protect my energy or simply allowing myself to rest when I need it.
Most importantly, I’ve learned to listen to myself—if something feels draining, it’s a no. If something excites me, it’s a yes. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential, and it’s a big part of why I can show up as my best self every day.

What’s a fitness myth that you wish would go away, and why?
One of the biggest fitness myths I wish would disappear is the idea that the gym is the only way to get fit and lose weight. It’s simply not true. You don’t need to be lifting weights or doing structured workouts to be active and strong.
Fitness is about finding movement that fits your lifestyle and brings you joy. There are so many ways to stay fit—whether it’s outdoor adventures, recreational sports, or just being active throughout the day. The key is consistency, not suffering through something you hate.
At the end of the day, movement should feel natural and enjoyable. When people stop believing they have to go to the gym to be fit, they realise there are endless ways to stay healthy that actually make them feel good.

What is your approach to nutrition? How do you maintain balance and still enjoy your favourite foods?
My approach to nutrition is all about balance and sustainability. I don’t believe in extreme restrictions or cutting out entire food groups—because let’s be real, that’s not enjoyable or sustainable long-term. Instead, I focus on fuelling my body with fresh nutrient-dense foods that make me feel strong, energised, and at my best.
Learning to cook has played a massive part for me and I absolutely love it!
At the same time, I still enjoy my favourite foods without guilt. It’s about finding a balance that works, not following a rigid set of rules. If I want something, I have it—I just make sure it fits into my overall goals.
For me, nutrition isn’t about perfection—it’s about consistency, self-awareness, and making choices that align with how I want to feel. When you focus on nourishing your body instead of punishing it, everything changes.

What’s your go-to treat?
I’m an absolute sucker for a cheeseburger and I love Coca-Cola—but my ultimate weakness? Lollies. Give me a bag of mixed lollies, and I have zero self-control!
I’m all about balance, so I don’t deprive myself of the things I enjoy. Because at the end of the day, food is meant to be enjoyed, and a little treat here and there never hurt anyone!

Who inspires you?
My biggest inspiration would be my family, but mostly my Mum. We are incredibly close. My parents have the most incredibly adventurous spirit—they’re always travelling, trying new things, and truly living life to the fullest. I love that they’ve never let age or fear hold them back, and that mindset has definitely influenced me now I’m older.
They’ve shown me what it means to be resilient, fearless, and open to new experiences. Their ability to embrace life, take risks, and chase what makes them happy is something I deeply admire and strive to embody in my own journey.

You’re working out – what are you listening to?
When I’m getting my steps in, true crime podcasts are my go-to—I love a good murder mystery to keep me entertained while I move. There’s something about diving into a gripping story that makes the time fly!
Otherwise, my Spotify favourites are on repeat, and honestly, it’s a total mishmash of genres. One minute it’s throwback R&B, the next it’s rock, house, or even a bit of country. It all depends on my mood, but variety keeps things interesting!

Reflecting on your whole journey to date, what are you most proud of – personally or professionally?
The thing I’m most proud of—both personally and professionally—is simply being alive and being who I am today. I was once told by specialists that I wouldn’t be able to have a normal life, let alone an extraordinary one. But I refused to accept that as my reality. I pushed through, rebuilt myself, and proved that I define my own limits.
I’m incredibly proud of turning my story into a business—not just to inspire, but to help others create real change. Through coaching, resources, and community, I guide people to find their own strength and purpose. Becoming an international speaker and sharing my journey on a global scale is an achievement I hold close. Knowing my experiences can empower others is the most rewarding part of everything I do.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is simple but powerful:

“Nothing changes if nothing changes.”

It’s a reminder that if you want a different outcome, you have to take action—even if it’s uncomfortable, even if it’s messy. Waiting for the perfect moment or overthinking won’t get you anywhere. The only way to create real change is to just start.

What’s next for you?
More travel, adventure, and stepping into even bigger opportunities—especially in my professional life. Sharing my journey on international stages has been incredible, and I’m ready to expand my impact with more speaking engagements and business growth.
In May, I’m hosting a transformative retreat, focused on decluttering your life and mind to help women step into the best version of themselves. It’s not just about clearing physical clutter, but also releasing the mental and emotional weight that holds people back. This has been a huge part of my own journey, and I know how powerful it is to create space for real change.
I’m also focused on growing my brand, reaching more people through my program and resources, and building new opportunities that align with my mission. And in June, I’m off to the USA for a holiday, which I’m super excited about—not just for the adventure but also for the potential opportunities that could come from it. There’s so much ahead, and I can’t wait to see where this next chapter takes me!

Photographer: Corrina LOUISE
Hair: Ben Mitchell, The Base Hair LabHair Lab
Make-up: Kirstie Roche
Make Up Stylist: Collette Emily Stylist
Location: CHANGE, Gold Coast

For the full article grab the April/May 2025 issue of Women’s Fitness Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.