Coaches

Train With Our Team of
World Champion Coaches

Train With Our Team of
World Champion Coaches

James Ross

James Ross

Founder, Head Coach &
Three-time Kettlebell World Champion

Founder, Head Coach &
Three-time Kettlebell World Champion

About James:

James Ross is a distinguished figure in the global strength community, blending high-level academic research with over 15 years of elite coaching experience.

As a three-time World Kettlebell Champion, James’s expertise goes beyond theory; he has lived the discipline required to reach the pinnacle of international sport. This unique perspective allows him to bridge the gap between complex sports science and practical, real-world application for his clients.

His approach is that of a "movement scientist"—meticulous, data-driven, and focused on the minimum effective dose required to see consistent weekly progress.

Whether he is coaching one of his six World Champion pupils or a beginner starting their strength journey, James prioritises technical mastery and a sustainable, "slow and steady" philosophy that respects the body’s long-term health.

At The Richmond Gym, James is dedicated to helping members achieve physical autonomy. He treats every client with a professional, adult-centered approach, working collaboratively to build lifestyles that balance high-performance training with sustainable nutrition and long-term wellness.

Qualifications

  • Master's Degree in Strength & Conditioning

  • Master's Degree by Research in the Kettlebell Snatch

  • Bachelor of Health Science

  • ASCA Level 2 Coach (Australian Strength & Conditioning Association)

  • ESSA Member (Exercise & Sports Science Australia)

Career Highlights

  • 3-Time World Kettlebell Champion

  • Coach to 6 World Kettlebell Champions

  • 15+ Years Experience | 5,000+ Classes Taught

  • Published Contributor to Men’s Health Magazine

Rhys Artridge

Director & Head of Athletic Development

Director & Head of Athletic Development

About Rhys:

Rhys’ journey into high-performance coaching began on the icy slopes of the FIS European circuit. As a competitive Alpine and Ski Cross racer, he experienced firsthand the gap between raw talent and structured physical preparation. At just 16, he began his formal education in fitness to bridge that gap for himself—a move that sparked a lifelong obsession with the science of human movement.

This evolution from athlete to scholar led Rhys to a Master’s Degree in Exercise Science (Strength & Conditioning) at Edith Cowan University. His research, specifically in athletic development and ACL rehabilitation, became the foundation for what is now the Snow Performance methodology. His periodized programs haven't just been validated by industry-leading coaches; they have been battle-tested by world-class athletes.

Over the last decade, Rhys has become a pivotal figure in Australian winter sports and professional athletics. He has managed the strength and conditioning programs for National Team Alpine skiers, Paralympic athletes, and rising stars on the North America Cup snowboarding circuit. Beyond the snow, his expertise has been sought out by professional tennis players on the WTA tour and elite cricketers within the Victorian Bushrangers system.

At The Richmond Gym, Rhys translates this elite-level "performance architecture" for the local community. He believes that whether you are an Olympic hopeful or an executive looking to maintain peak health, the principles remain the same: precision, evidence, and a relentless focus on longevity.

Qualifications

  • Master of Exercise Science (Strength & Conditioning) – ECU

  • Post Graduate Diploma in Exercise Science – ECU

  • Bachelor of Exercise Science – ACU

  • ASCA Level 2 Coach (Australian Strength & Conditioning Association)

  • AWF Level 1 Club Coach (Australian Weightlifting Federation)

  • EXOS Phase 1 Performance Mentorship

  • FMS Level 1 (Functional Movement Screen)

  • Diploma of Sports Development – GO-TAFE



Career Highlights

  • Australian development ski cross team member

  • Worked with professional athletes:

    • Varvara Lepchenko (Tennis, world rank 82)

    • Harry Laidlaw (Alpine Ski, 3-time Olympian)

    • Millie Bongiorno (Alpine Snowboard, Aus National team)

  • Strength and conditioning coach for

    • Team Hotham race squad

    • Mt Buller Race Club 

    • Falls Creek Race Club 

    • Snow Australia 

  • 15+ years in personal training 

  • Founder and director of Snow Performance

Sharif Long

Senior Strength & Conditioning Coach

Senior Strength & Conditioning Coach

About Sharif:

With over a decade of experience in the health and fitness industry, Sharif holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise and Sport Science. He has worked with a wide spectrum of clients—from professional athletes looking to optimise performance, to individuals managing injuries or disabilities requiring structured and supportive rehabilitation. His depth of experience allows him to confidently adapt training to suit each individual, ensuring safe, effective, and progressive outcomes.

Sharif takes a holistic and highly individualised approach to coaching. He places strong emphasis not only on physical training, but also on the key pillars of long-term health—nutrition, recovery, and mental wellbeing. His sessions are structured, engaging, and purpose-driven, designed to challenge clients while building confidence and capability.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science

  • Certified Functional Nutrition Coach

  • Powerlifting Coach - Level 1

  • Functional Movement Screen (FMS) - Level 1

Specialisations

  • Strength and conditioning

  • Powerlifting 

  • Boxing and kickboxing

1:1 Personal Training

At The Richmond Gym, personal training is not about "getting through" a workout—it’s about building a technical foundation that lasts a lifetime.

Whether you are navigating a busy career, returning to sport, or looking to move without pain, our 1-on-1 coaching provides the precision and data-driven programming you need to stop guessing and start progressing.

We offer a range of different personal training packages to help you meet your goals. Feel free to get in touch to help determine which is best suited for your needs.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD A STRONGER YOU

Book a free 45 minute class to start your transformation with The Richmond Gym

TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD A STRONGER YOU

Book a free 45 minute session to start your transformation with The Richmond Gym