More than fitness: Building resilience and connection for the female defence community
When Army veteran Ramon joined the Women in Fitness HIIT Program, she wasn’t just looking for a way to stay active, she wanted to find a space that supported her mental wellbeing, strengthened her connection with her daughter and introduced her to a community that understood the unique aspects of military life.
Having served in the Army for 16 years and deployed on multiple tours, including East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan, Ramon understood the importance of resilience and discipline. However, transitioning to civilian life presented its own challenges. Female veterans often face unique barriers to reintegration, including a greater risk of mental health struggles and feelings of isolation.
The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has highlighted that female ex-serving members who served in combat or security roles are 452% more likely to die by suicide compared to the wider female population.
Recognising the need for programs that address the unique female experience of service-related trauma, Invictus Australia partnered with the Australian Institute of Personal Trainers (AIPT) to create the Women in Fitness HIIT Program, a structured initiative designed specifically for female defence community members. This program has been funded by the QLD Government’s Sport and Recreation department, providing those in the area to have improved access to gender-specific services that foster well-being, resilience and social connection.
The Importance of Regular and Structured Exercise
Regular exercise is widely recognised as a powerful tool for improving both physical and mental health. For veterans, physical activity can help manage stress, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression and create a sense of routine aside from military service. For families, shared exercise strengthens bonds, fosters healthy habits and provides a positive outlet for managing life’s challenges. Programs like the Women in Fitness HIIT Program are particularly valuable because they combine structured training with a strong community, ensuring that participants feel supported both physically and emotionally.
Having spent years in the Army, Ramon understood the benefits of structure and teamwork and was interested in finding a space post service where she feels recognised and understood. When she found out this opportunity was open to family members as well, she wanted her daughter to experience those same benefits in a positive, empowering environment.
I participated in the program with my daughter and together, we experienced profound benefits. Not only did it help us improve our physical health, but it also provided critical mental health benefits, such as stress relief, enhanced emotional resilience and an overall boost in wellbeing.”
The program quickly became something they looked forward to each week as a way to connect and proactively manage their wellbeing.
“I recall one particular afternoon after school when my daughter wasn’t feeling very energetic but was determined not to miss out on the program because of how much she enjoyed participating. Moments like these underscored the program’s positive impact—not just physically, but emotionally as well.”
By engaging in regular exercise together, Ramon and her daughter not only improved their fitness levels but also strengthened their emotional connection. The program provided a structured, encouraging space where they could push themselves, support each other and experience the uplifting effects of movement and community.
Connection and Belonging Found Through Movement
The initial program offered two 10-week fitness training blocks in key locations across Queensland. Led by highly qualified female trainers, these high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions were designed to enhance physical strength within the community. However, for many female veterans like Ramon, the impact extended well beyond fitness.
This program goes beyond physical fitness, offering essential opportunities to improve mental health, foster resilience and build meaningful social connections within a supportive and understanding community.”
The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) have both acknowledged that a sense of belonging is crucial for female veterans, who often feel overlooked within the broader veteran community. With structured training and expert guidance, the Women in Fitness HIIT Program provides a space where female veterans and their families can share their experiences, support one another and replace isolation with connection.
“By engaging in the Women in Fitness HIIT Program, women veterans and their families gain more than fitness; they find a network of shared experiences, a sense of belonging and a strengthened sense of solidarity.”
How to Get Involved
After the success of the initial program, the Women in Fitness HIIT program will continue in Cairns, Townsville, Toowoomba and Brisbane in late April. To sign up for this program once advertised, follow your local Facebook group:
Read more:
- How a Queensland fitness program is empowering female veterans and families
- AIPT and Invictus Australia team up to empower veterans through fitness education
Looking to get involved in sport in your region? Connect with our staff through your regions Facebook group
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