AUSactive spotlights Life Member Dominic Yam’s commitment to fitness and community

AUSactive Life Member Dominic Yam, at 87 years young, has recently celebrated 20 years of his Fitness 50 Club in Perth. Yam isn’t just leading fitness classes - he’s changing lives one move at a time.

As the founder of Fitness 50 Club, he has dedicated the past 20 years to helping Perth’s senior citizens move, stay strong, and live with vitality.

His passion for fitness and community has impacted over 3,000 new members each year, making Fitness 50 Club a cornerstone of health, happiness, and hope for older adults.

AUSactive General Manager (WA), Mike Beeney who has witnessed Yam’s class firsthand, said it was truly inspirational to see the strength and camaraderie of the community he has built.

Beeney (pictured below with Yam) advised “his class participants are happy to share stories of the positive benefits they have received, motivated by his unwavering dedication and commitment. An amazing example of a true community build around physical activity.

Fitness 50 Club: Two Decades of Health & Community
What started as a small group of 10 participants has now flourished into a thriving community, celebrating 20 years of transforming senior health and well-being.

From humble beginnings, Yam and his wife Amy have grown Fitness 50 Club into a movement that provides exercise routines designed to improve fitness levels, aid recovery from medical conditions, and encourage social connection.

Yam said his classes, held at Hamersley Leisure Centre, Wanneroo Seniors Club, and other venues across Perth, offer a welcoming space where seniors can exercise with confidence, meet new friends, and reclaim their mobility and independence.

Yam shared “as we age, we tend to move less, which leads to weakness and a higher risk of falls. My goal is to help seniors keep moving, stay strong, and enjoy life to the fullest.

“We now have more than 30 regular people per class across three sessions each week – my clients love it as much as I do!”

“My longest attending client has been at the weekly classes for over 15 years, and they see it as a great social outing as well as keeping active in a safe environment where their needs are cared for.”

A Lifetime Commitment to Fitness
Yam’s journey into fitness began in 1981 when he discovered the benefits of aerobic exercise at Fletchers Fitness Club.

Over the years, he maintained his health through squash, badminton, and windsurfing, but it was the energy and camaraderie of group fitness that truly captured his heart.

After retiring in 2005, Yam saw a need for senior-focused exercise programs and took the leap to become a certified fitness instructor. From that moment on, Fitness 50 Club became his life’s mission - helping older adults stay active, maintain strength, and build resilience.

Blending Tradition with Modern Fitness
Yam’s unique approach to fitness goes beyond conventional workouts. His exercise routines blend modern fitness principles with traditional Eastern philosophies, incorporating:

• Tai Chi movements for balance and flexibility

• Qi Gong (deep breathing exercises) for internal strength and relaxation

• Foot reflexology for improved circulation

• Meditation for stress reduction and mental clarity

By integrating these techniques, Yam has helped his members improve not just their physical health, but their overall well-being.

Recognised for a Lifetime of Service
Yam’s unwavering commitment to the senior community has been recognised with multiple accolades, including:

• 2012 Australia Day Active Citizen Award

• 2020 Community Citizen of the Year Award

• 2021 AUSactive Life Membership – Recognising his contributions to senior wellness

• 2025 AUSactive Certificate of Appreciation – Honouring 20 years of AUSactive membership and his status as Australia’s oldest fitness instructor at 87 years old!

Despite undergoing open-heart surgery in 2012, Yam made an incredible recovery through exercise and discipline - a true testament to the power of fitness at any age.

“Exercise Keeps You Young!”

Yam’s message is simple yet powerful.

“I want to awaken seniors to the joy of exercise - it’s fun, good for your soul, and keeps you young!”

Through Fitness 50 Club, he has redefined ageing, showing that movement is not just about fitness - it’s about living fully, staying independent, and finding joy in every step.

As Fitness 50 Club celebrates 20 years, Yam remains as passionate as ever, welcoming new members with his signature energy, wisdom, and a smile. His story is a reminder that it’s never too late to start moving - and that a healthier, happier life is always within reach.

Images. Credit: AUSactive and Fitness 50 Club