Tarryn King’s Fitness Journey: From the Waves to the Gym Floor
If you’ve been around False Bay Fitness, chances are you’ve seen Tarryn powering through a workout with her signature energy and smile. As a world champion athlete, coach and mom, Tarryn brings an inspiring mix of grit, positivity and community spirit to every class. We caught up with her to find out more about her story and what keeps her coming back.
What made you decide to join False Bay Fitness?
I’ve always been really active and passionate about fitness. I used to work out a couple of times a week and spend most days in the water surfing or stand-up paddleboarding — that was my main focus. Then I went to a trial class with my mom and stepdad, and honestly, I was hooked right away! I signed up straight after and now I come to classes anywhere from three to five times a week.
For those who don’t know you, can you tell us a little about yourself, your family and what you do for a living?
I’ve been competing professionally in surfing and stand-up paddleboarding for the last 10 years. In recent years, I’ve taken it to the next level, competing on the Euro Tour, World Champ events, and other national competitions.
Alongside my athletic career, I coach surfing and SUP, and I also work with an online fitness company called Daily J, where I film and design workouts for our 21-day programs.
Outside of work, I’m a proud mom to two amazing kids — Koa (8) and Isabella-Rose (3) and wife to my husband Tom, who shares my love of the outdoors. Balancing family life, training and work keeps me busy, but I truly love it.
My goal is to inspire others to live active, happy lives and if I can make even one person smile or feel more confident, I feel like I’ve done something meaningful.
You’re a multiple SA Longboard Champion, SUP Champion, and World SUP Sprint Champion — so impressive! How does False Bay Fitness fit into what you do?
Strength! My work is physically demanding, and maintaining consistency with my Daily J filming has helped me build a strong foundation.
Joining False Bay Fitness has allowed me to take that even further pushing my limits through focused strength training. Since joining, I’ve seen an incredible improvement in my overall strength and endurance. I feel stronger than ever, and I genuinely enjoy the classes, which makes it easy to stay consistent and motivated.
Besides strength training, what keeps you coming back to the box?
I love the community so much! <3
Had you tried other gyms or programs before? How is this different?
I love how intimate the classes are, there’s such a great sense of community and connection. I honestly get serious FOMO when I can’t make a session! The energy, the people and the atmosphere are always so motivating. Even when the classes are fully booked, I find myself wishing I was there — it’s just that good!
How do the workouts here complement your time on the board or in the water?
My sports require strong legs and arms as well as good cardio - and that’s exactly what the PureFit classes do for me.
How would you describe the atmosphere at False Bay Fitness?
Motivating, inspiring, supportive and such a jol!
Is there a class that stands out for you?
Nope, I love them all! (Even the ones with the wall walks, haha!)
As a mom, you’re a role model to your two kids. How has your active lifestyle impacted them?
Yes, they always love joining in which makes me so happy.
Travelling often can bring a bit of mom guilt, but I remind myself that I’m leading by example. I want them to see that no dream is too big or too far out of reach, and that with passion, dedication and hard work, anything is possible. It’s also really important to me that they grow up understanding the value of living a healthy, active lifestyle - and I love that they’re already embracing that.
What achievement are you most proud of?
In 2018, I won the World Championship, definitely a highlight! But what means the most to me is the journey getting there. I was just 11 months postpartum with my first baby and the months leading up to the event were incredibly challenging.
I was juggling early mornings with very little sleep and having to leave my newborn to train was tough. It was a huge sacrifice, but looking back now, I’m so proud of how I managed to push through.
That experience taught me so much about resilience, patience, and what’s truly possible when you’re determined and I wouldn’t change it for anything.
How do you balance competition training with regular gym sessions?
I’m not competing as much these days, mostly just local events so on most days, I do both (that FOMO strikes again, haha!). I try to get in the water most mornings and then hit the gym in the afternoon.
When a big international event is coming up, my training becomes more focused on competition, but my gym sessions stay consistent because they’re so important for my overall performance.
How do you look after your body between intense training sessions?
I generally follow a good diet most of the time, but when my training ramps up, I make sure to fuel my body properly with the right nutrition to support the extra effort.
What’s your favourite class or time slot to train, and why?
Usually the 4 or 5pm classes!
If you had to describe False Bay Fitness in three words, what would they be?
Inclusive.
Energetic.
Encouraging.
Lastly, tell us something fun that other members might not know about you!
Fun fact, I actually studied beauty therapy after school! I’ve never used the degree, but I love the beauty industry and everything it has to offer. Oh, and I love a bit of retail therapy too!
We’re so lucky to have Tarryn as part of our False Bay Fitness family. Her drive, warmth, and positive energy are contagious and we can’t wait to see what she achieves next, both in and out of the gym.
