In today’s fast-paced world, fitness is often seen as just another item on the to-do list—something to fit in between work, family, and responsibilities.vBut what if training your body was about more than just looking good or staying in shape? What if it was the foundation for building mental resilience, strengthening relationships, and becoming a better leader—at home, at work, and in life?
That’s exactly what Cody Hunter, a seasoned fitness professional, former New Zealand athlete, and advocate for personal transformation, believes. In our latest episode of The Zeducation Podcast, Cody shares his inspiring journey—from overcoming career-ending rugby injuries to pioneering the fitness culture in South Korea and coaching men to become stronger, more intentional fathers.
From Setbacks to Strength: Cody’s Story
Cody’s journey hasn’t been an easy one. Growing up in New Zealand, he struggled with fitness early on, constantly coming in last in school races. But instead of giving up, he used his challenges as motivation. His resilience eventually led him to rugby, where he played at a competitive level—until injuries forced him to reconsider his future.
After multiple knee surgeries and even full facial reconstruction, Cody’s rugby dreams came to an end. But rather than seeing this as a defeat, he pivoted. He turned his passion for fitness into a career, moving to South Korea, where he opened multiple CrossFit gyms and led a movement to redefine fitness as more than just physical training—it was about mental toughness, community, and family leadership.
"Fitness isn’t just about training your body—it’s about training your mind to push through discomfort in life."
Why Fitness Is More Than Just Physical Strength
For Cody, fitness isn’t just about muscle gains or hitting the gym five times a week. It’s about training yourself to handle life’s challenges—whether that’s a tough day at work, financial struggles, or difficult moments in relationships.
He explains that when we push through discomfort in training, we train our minds to push through discomfort in life. Whether it’s waking up early to hit the gym, choosing healthier meals, or showing up for our families when we don’t feel like it, these small acts of discipline create a ripple effect in every aspect of our lives.
"If you can train your body to endure discomfort, you can train your mind to overcome adversity."
Fatherhood, Leadership & the Role of Men
One of Cody’s biggest passions today is helping men—particularly fathers—step up and become the leaders their families need.
He highlights a crucial issue: many fathers are physically present but emotionally absent. Work stress, social expectations, and personal struggles often pull men away from truly engaging with their children and partners. Cody challenges men to redefine masculinity—not as toxic or outdated, but as strong, dependable, and emotionally intelligent leadership.
A powerful example he shared:One of his clients, a father, once admitted that he avoided the swimming pool with his kids because of insecurity about his body. Instead of playing with them, he sat on the sidelines while another dad stepped in. This moment of realisation became the motivation for change.
"Your kids don’t care what shape you’re in. They just want you in the pool with them. Stop sitting on the sidelines of your own life."
Cody emphasises that fitness isn't about achieving the "perfect" body—it's about confidence, energy, and the ability to show up fully for those who matter most.
How to Build Strength, Resilience & a Thriving Family Life
If you’re a busy parent or a professional struggling to balance work, family, and self-care, Cody offers simple yet powerful strategies to start making a shift today:
Move every day. It doesn’t have to be a 90-minute gym session. A 10-minute walk, a quick set of push-ups, or stretching can make a difference.
Stop waiting for motivation. Discipline beats motivation every time. Show up even when you don’t feel like it.
Be present at home. Put the phone down. Engage in quality time with your kids. Listen. Create moments that matter.
Audit your behaviours. What habits are holding you back? Identify and replace them with behaviours that align with the person you want to become.
Surround yourself with the right people. Community is key. Find people who push you to grow, not those who hold you back.
Final Thoughts: Becoming the Man You’re Meant to Be
At the heart of Cody’s message is ownership. If your health, mindset, or relationships aren’t where you want them to be, it’s on you to change them.
Imagine the man you could become if you fully committed to your growth—if you didn’t let self-doubt, bad habits, or outside opinions hold you back. Imagine meeting that version of yourself 10 years from now. Would you be proud? Or would you regret not taking action sooner?
The choice is yours.
Listen to the Full Podcast Episode
If you’re ready to transform your fitness, mindset, and leadership, don’t miss this episode with Cody Hunter. Tune in to The Zeducation Podcast now and take the first step toward becoming the strongest version of yourself.
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