Who are you?

I’m Sebastian Ellis, CEO and co-founder of Elements4Life. We are a movement dedicated to promoting holistic wellness by fostering the ideal conditions for every aspect of our fitness and lifestyle to thrive.

How did you get involved in the health and fitness industry?

I was always in sport growing up and played at competitive levels throughout my teens and early 20s. But I’m also a business guy always looking for growth. I wanted to build a career and a lifestyle that allowed me to do what I love most, which is to move well and help my community do the same.

Are there any upcoming projects you’re working on?

Elements4Life has grown from one to three gyms in the last four years so expansion is obviously always front of mind. There’s also our purpose-built SmartStudio space, which offers a controlled, distraction-free setting for full-body functional training in a team environment.

Who has been the biggest influence in your career?

Honestly, I’ve been the biggest influence on my career and I’m the one who motivates myself to get up every morning. While I love learning from others, my drive is very internally motivated.

What’s your morning routine?

I get up between 4 am and 4.30 am every morning and get ready to work hard on/in the business until the early afternoon. The rest of my day is spent on wellness, whether it’s my own or others’.

The Elements4Life community is passionate about creating a supportive environment that encourages every member to achieve their personal best. Photo: Elements4Life.

What’s your favourite book?

It’s a tie between Sell Like Crazy by Sabri Suby and The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay.

What are three words you would use to describe Canberra?

I’ll give you three Cs for this one: central, convenient and country-town-ish.

What’s your advice for someone starting in their career?

Be prepared to do different things, be agile, put in the work, and if you don’t like what you’re doing, get out.

If someone had 24 hours to spend in Canberra, where should they go and what should they do?

Start with an early breakfast at ONA Coffee House in Manuka before an 8.30 am tour of Parliament House. Pop over to the Australian War Memorial at 10 am, then walk or cycle around Lake Burley Griffin with a stop in at the National Carillon.

The Boat House will give you a brilliant view of the lake for lunch. Afterwards, enjoy exploring the National Gallery and interactive fun at Questacon. Finish off the busy day right by watching the sunset from Mount Ainslie Lookout before heading over to Akiba for an Asian-inspired dinner.

For the late-nighters, I recommend an evening stroll along Kingston Foreshore, a nightcap at Betti Bravo’s or The Dock, or maybe check out a live performance at Canberra Theatre Centre.

Elements4Life offers three smart gyms in the Canberra region, located in Harrison, Belconnen and Murrumbateman.