Matt was 37kg with a lung function of only 25% when he started. He couldn't even lift an empty bar when he walked into the gym, we had to start him on 3kg Dumbbells. Doctors had told him that it was nearly impossible for him to put weight on with his condition. Matt was born with cystic fibrosis, a lung disorder that has a life expectancy of early 30s. About 7 years ago the doctors told Matt his condition was worsening and needed to put weight on- but didn't know how he possibly could. Shayne disagreed with the doctors: he believed Matt could put on weight. Shayne saw Matt as a opportunity to prove the doctors wrong. Over the next couple of years Matt went from the extremely frail 37kgs with low self esteem to a 70kg man full of confidence an much improved health!

Devastatingly, Matt's journey was hindered again in march 2014 when the doctors said without a double lung transplant he would die. He went on the transplant list, and 3 days and some very emotional phone calls later he had new lungs. Shayne visited Matt in hospital and we knew we were in for some new challenges that we would have to overcome. Matt struggled after his op to get back to feeling normal and to regain all the muscle he lost from the surgery and the extensive hospital stay. Once out, Matt was extremely keen to get back in the gym - so keen he came back three days after he got home!

Matts doctors said he wouldn't be able to lift more than 2kg ever again, he now has a 85% lung function, is 78kg, 5% body fat and lifts double his body weight! He since competed in a powerlifting competition, he won his weight division.

Matt continues to train with Shayne, Jess and Nick the whole team at The Liftlab and betters himself with every session. Matt is an inspiration to our whole team and are glad we were able to help him in his amazing journey.

Matt Maartensz

Before my time with Shayne and his team, I had three years of experience in the gym. In July of last year, I decided to seek some professional assistance with weightlifting and nutrition as I was unhappy with my progress. I chose to take a ‘leap of faith’, so to speak, and I can thankfully say almost a year later that it was one of the best decisions I have made. I personally underwent a 12-week program that included four personal training sessions a week, plus a nutrition plan. Upon following the recommended principles of nutrition, alongside giving 100% in the gym, I can wholeheartedly say that my sense of general wellbeing improved dramatically. Initially the whole program appeared to be daunting and simply impractical. Despite this, I can assure anyone who is undecided that after a few weeks of dedication to the program it will seamlessly incorporate itself into your busy lives.

Lennox Saint

When you make a decision that you want to get fit, go on a diet, to lose weight, get toned or all of the above there is one thing you are never short of, and that’s advice and opinions. Everyone has their miracle juices, Benjamin Button injectables, paleo, low carb no carb high carb organic vegetable cleanse detox weight loss shake. There is so much noise out there and to be honest with my lifestyle and eating out all the time the chances of me sticking to any strict regime was just simply not going to happen.

John Elliott

I first commenced using LiftLab in early 2015 where I was looking to ‘change up’ my training program. We did several different training sessions spaced over various weeks and I found that I could really start to see change and enjoyed the training layout and style. From here I requested further information around nutrition and was able to receive guidance in the form of basics of ‘ Do’s & Dont’s’ of nutrition. I truly believe I would not be where I am today in my health and fitness journey without the assistance of such a great coach.

Roberta Westlund

My journey with the gym began many years ago, and for most of that time, it was a love–hate relationship. I’ve always been an active person, I play sport and run long distances. To me, the gym was where you went when you couldn’t do those things. It was for injuries, for bad weather and for the off-season. It was never the main event. That was until I found LiftLab. I began my journey at LiftLab the same way I began my journey at every other gym. I began injured, looking for a quick fix to get back to running. I never imagined I’d find so much more. What always drew me to sport and running was the sense of community. But in most gyms, I felt completely alone, awkward, unsure how to use the equipment, and constantly comparing myself to people who seemed stronger and more confident. So when I joined LiftLab, I was hesitant. Over the past 18 months, that has completely changed. I started with HIIT classes, learning how to move properly and build confidence. Then I did Technique, Personal Training and Women’s Semi PT, and with this came the expert guidance on how strength training could work together with running. I learned how important it was to fuel my body properly, something I had never fully understood before. As a woman in her late forties, I also received advice tailored to pre-menopause—practical, evidence-based guidance that helped me adapt my habits in a way that made sense for me. As someone with a demanding corporate career, I don’t have time for fluff. Everything I’ve learned at LiftLab has been clear, purposeful, and grounded in research, and that matters to me. The results have been incredible. I’m stronger, fitter, and my body, and most importantly- my mindset, has completely changed. I walk into the gym feeling confident. And the biggest surprise? My running has actually improved, I’m faster than ever and those repetitive injuries have disappeared. But more than anything, I’ve found my people. Community has always mattered to me, and now I have a team around me, supporting me, challenging me, and celebrating my goals alongside me. And that’s something I never expected to find in a gym.

Rebecca Kirkwood

The Lift Lab has been a total game-changer for me. As a full-time working mum, finding time (and motivation) to train consistently felt impossible, until I joined The Lift Lab. After just three weeks, I already felt stronger, more toned, and most importantly, happier! The owners and coaches are phenomenal, welcoming, supportive, and genuinely invested in your progress. The facilities are top-notch, and the training program actually works. One of the things I appreciate most is how family-friendly they are. On the days I don’t have anyone to look after my daughter, they’re more than happy for her to come along. It’s that kind of flexibility and understanding that keeps me coming back 💙🖤 Couldn’t recommend The Lift Lab more highly—thank you for helping me find myself again 💪

Catarina Guimarães

When I joined TheLiftLab I wasn't expecting to finally find a community of such welcoming and wonderful humans. From the moment I walked in the front door I was greeted by name, the group training is second to none and the level of expertise Shayne and Dee have is beyond that of any PT ive ever had. Actually, I shouldn't be speaking so nice because it'll just draw more positive attention! Jk, you guys rock. So glad to be a member, part of the Lil family.

Laura Anderson

Hands down, the best gym going. Led from the front by the very knowledgeable Shayne and Dee. Shayne has been fantastic with me helping with some lower back injuries and offering great advice for my own PT career. Dee is always on hand with a huge smile, driving her clients on with top-class coaching. They’re passing on their excellent work ethic and knowledge to their kids and younger staff, who are always keeping the gym spotless and helping members whenever needed. The best compliment I can give is that when I have my own gym someday, I’ll be basing it off The Lift Lab. 🫡

Conor Keegan

Having trained my whole life and been involved in semi professional sport when younger I never thought I needed a personal trainer. I still don’t, what I needed was a person and team and facility that genuinely knows their stuff, not only is Shayne a phenomenal coach but he cares, as do the rest of the lift lab team. I train twice a week with Shayne and the attention to detail, after training support is so far beyond a typical trainer that I won’t ever go back to thinking solo is the best way. Thankyou Shayne and the lift lab team. 🤜

Thomas Edinger

Moving to the Lift lab has been such a pivotal moment in my fitness journey. It’s an environment where you not only feel right at home but you are also in the best place to push yourself and create the best version of yourself day by day Walking into the gym and seeing all the smiling faces in Dee and Shane definitely gives the sense of belonging. You know you’re in the right place as soon as you walk in the door. There’s never a dull moment at the Lab Between Chleo darting around the gym floor or the girls greeting you at the door with smiles ear to ear. This gym really feels like a second home

Lucas Brown

I felt like my body was falling apart on me in my mid-30’s. I came to liftlab with back injury that mean I could not pick a feather up from the floor without pain to now being able to easily deadlift 100+kg. I came to lift lab with what my orthopaedic surgeon described as an “arthritic knee that looked like an 80 year old’s” (I’m in my mid 30’s) My programs have been personally tailored to build mobility and strength back to my knee whilst shedding extra kilos (15kg at time of post) PT sessions with Dee and a membership at lift lab has yielded the best ROI of any investment I’ve made! It gets a 10/10 from me on Cleanliness, community, classes, facilities, training programs and nutrition plans

Sam Hayes

For nearly 30 years, I wasn’t a gym person. I’d try going every now and then, but I never enjoyed it or felt like it gave me what I needed. I decided to try Lift Lab after hearing they had a gym cat (yes, really!), and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Over the past two years, training at the Lab has completely changed me—not just physically but mentally, too. Shayne and Dee create such a supportive, welcoming environment, no matter your fitness level. They also hold you accountable in a way that’s motivating rather than guilt-inducing, which makes all the difference. Their positivity and encouragement gave me the confidence to push myself harder than I thought I could and even join a few classes, which I never thought I’d do. Without a doubt, this is the best gym in Perth. If you’re on the fence, give it a go—you won’t regret it.

Michelle Falconer

Been coming to the liftlab for 3 years now and it's the first time I've actual had results. These guys are knowledgeable! Atmosphere is really friendly and welcoming. I used to get personal training elsewhere, it was cheaper but a waste of money, these guys took my bench press from 60kg with shoulder pain to 100kg pain free in 3 months. They work with old people, kids, injuries, body builders and people who have never exercised and tailor everything to your needs. The only thing id say is please don't join because I love that it's not too busy. Dina and shayne (owners) are absolute legends!

Saul Mendelsohn

I joined Lift Lab in August 2023 after struggling with a long-term hip injury that I couldn't shake. Over the years, I had seen surgeons, physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, and sports doctors, but none of them were able to make significant progress with my recovery. That all changed when I started working with Dina at Lift Lab. Dina is truly exceptional. From the very first session, she was dedicated to finding a solution and never gave up on me. Her approach is unique – she doesn’t rely on one-size-fits-all methods but continuously adapts her techniques and challenges me with fresh strategies. I’ve seen more progress under her guidance than I ever thought possible, and my quality of life has drastically improved as a result. Her persistence, knowledge, and personalized care have changed my life. In addition to Dina (and Shayne’s) expertise, the Lift Lab boasts a fantastic environment. The gym is fully equipped with advanced, high-quality gear, and the atmosphere is both motivating and supportive. The trainers are incredibly knowledgeable, and there’s a real sense of community where everyone feels encouraged and valued. If you're looking for a gym that combines excellent equipment, expertise, and a truly personalized approach to rehabilitation, I can't recommend Liftlab highly enough. Dina, Shayne and the team have made a world of difference in my recovery, and I’m beyond grateful for their commitment to my health and well-being.

Natalie Chaplin

I’ve been training at Lift Lab in East Perth for the past few months, and I’ve had an outstanding experience. The facility itself is top-notch—super clean, spacious, and packed with all the equipment you could need for any type of strength training, conditioning, or Olympic lifting. What stands out the most, though, is the level of expertise and support from the coaches. The trainers at Lift Lab are incredibly knowledgeable and approachable. They take the time to assess your form, adjust your programming based on your goals, and push you to improve without ever overloading you. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with more advanced experience, they cater to all levels and really focus on technique, which I think is key for long-term progress and injury prevention. The community vibe is another highlight. Everyone is supportive and encouraging, and it’s easy to get motivated when you’re training in an environment where people are genuinely interested in seeing each other succeed. The vibe is very much a mix of hard work and camaraderie. If you’re looking for a place that combines excellent coaching, state-of-the-art equipment, and a positive atmosphere, Lift Lab in East Perth is definitely worth checking out.

Reilly Bruce