WHO WE ARE AT SOUTHSIDE FITNESS

Located in the southern suburbs of Cape Town, Southside Fitness is a proud fitness gym that started in our garage. Since 2023 we have expanded and grown into a gym offering personalized small-group functional training. Our approach combines the intimacy & attention of personal training with the dynamic & supportive environment of group classes. Focused on functional fitness, we tailor workouts to enhance strength, flexibility, & endurance for real-life activities. Whether you're new to fitness or an experienced athlete, our welcoming community & expert coaching provide a unique & effective path to achieving your health & fitness goals.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO DARE GREATLY

"Daring greatly" is a concept popularized by Brené Brown, & is our guiding value at Southside Fitness.

To dare greatly means to courageously engage with life, to take risks, to be vulnerable, & to pursue one's goals & dreams despite the possibility of failure or criticism. It involves embracing vulnerability, being willing to step into the arena of life, & facing challenges with courage & authenticity. It's about recognizing that failure is a natural part of growth & that true success comes from daring greatly & being willing to put oneself out there, despite the uncertainties and risks.

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MEET OUR COACHES

Smiling woman in fitness gear at a gym with brick walls.

Domonique Jason

Coach Dom, co-owner of Southside Fitness, combines her expertise in functional training with her professional background as an Occupational Therapist to offer a holistic approach to fitness. Her unique perspective as an OT specializing in mental health allows her to create a training environment that nurtures both physical and mental well-being.

Coaching Style:

Domonique’s coaching style is empathetic & supportive, focusing on the overall well-being of her clients. She emphasizes the importance of a healthy mental state in achieving physical fitness goals, creating a balanced & inclusive approach suitable for all fitness levels.

Community Focus:

As a co-owner of Southside Fitness, Domonique is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive community. She values the role of a nurturing environment in personal growth & ensures that Southside Fitness is a place where everyone can thrive.

Qualifications:

CrossFit Level 1: Certified since January 2021, with six years of CrossFit experience.
Occupational Therapist: Specializing in mental health, integrating mind-body wellness into fitness coaching.

Muscular man in a sleeveless shirt at a gym with arms crossed.

Kyle Jason

Kyle Jason, co-owner of Southside Fitness, is a dynamic fitness professional whose coaching style is a unique blend of intensity, encouragement, & building mastery. With a career spanning over five years in CrossFit, coupled with substantial experience in bodybuilding and martial arts, Kyle brings a diverse & comprehensive approach to fitness & well-being.

Coaching Style

Kyle is deeply committed to creating a positive and motivating environment. He takes pride in seeing his clients achieve their goals and surpass their own expectations. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced athlete, Kyle is dedicated to helping you on your fitness journey with expert guidance, unwavering support, & a touch of fun.

Qualifications:

CrossFit Gymnastics Level 1 : Certified November 2023

Lee Stemmet

Coach Lee Stemmet brings over 7 years of experience in CrossFit training and competition, combining deep practical knowledge with a highly approachable coaching style.

Known for his empathetic nature, Lee creates a supportive and welcoming environment where athletes of all levels feel comfortable from day one.

His laid-back, friendly approach makes him easy to connect with, helping members build confidence and enjoy their training journey. At the same time, Lee has a strong ability to challenge individuals when it matters most—pushing them beyond their comfort zones to unlock real progress and growth.

With a balance of encouragement and accountability, Coach Lee is passionate about helping every athlete become stronger, more capable, and more resilient—both inside and outside the gym.

Matthew Wilson

Coach Matt is known for his calm, patient, and welcoming approach—making him especially well-suited for those new to training or stepping into the gym for the first time. His gentle coaching style creates a safe and supportive space where members can learn, grow, and build confidence at their own pace.

Matthew takes the time to break down movements thoroughly, ensuring each athlete understands the fundamentals before progressing. His attention to detail, combined with genuine encouragement, allows him to connect with members on a personal level and support their individual journeys.

With his CrossFit Gymnastics Level 1 certification, Matthew brings added expertise in movement quality and body control, helping athletes develop strong foundations and improve their skills with confidence.

Melanie Jonkers

Melly brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the coaching team, combining her expertise as a physiotherapist with her passion for CrossFit. With her CrossFit Level 1 and Burgener Strength Weightlifting Level 1 certifications, she offers a unique approach to training that blends performance with injury prevention and long-term health.

As our resident physio, Melly has an exceptional ability to guide athletes through movements with a deeper understanding of the body. She helps members train smarter, move better, and stay consistent—whether they’re beginners or experienced athletes.

Beyond her knowledge, her warm, upbeat personality makes everyone feel instantly comfortable, and her sense of humor keeps sessions fun and engaging. She creates an environment where people can work hard, feel supported, and enjoy every step of the journey.