Getting to Know Chris Fenet

If you've heard a friendly french accent floating around the studio, you've probably stumbled upon one of our newest Stretch family members - Chris! Although he arrived in Australia as a mechanical engineer, you'll now find him teaching yoga, playing music, competing in triathlons and working as a massage therapist!

We had a quick chat with Chris to find out more about what yoga means to him. 

When were you first introduced to yoga?
Originally from New Caledonia, I arrived in Australia in 2014 and discovered yoga then - first at my local gym and then at a local yoga studio. Yoga quickly became the anchor that helped me balance my busy professional life. After 4 years in the corporate world, in 2018 I decided to shift my focus to being a full time yoga teacher and have been teaching since!

What has helped you stick with it?
Beyond the physical benefits that yoga provides, the practice has prepared me to be uncomfortable and has helped me to deal with life's challenges! Yoga is practiced as much on the mat as it is off the mat! I love movement and its relationship with breath. Chris's classes are fun and will make you feel good!! Hobbies: Triathlon (Chris is preparing for the Ironman 70.3 in September 2021), playing music, and...yoga! Fun fact #1: As well as being a yoga teacher and an engineer, Chris is also a massage therapist. Fun fact #2: Don’t get fooled by the Irish twang that he picked up from living in Belfast for 6 years, he is from New Caledonia and some of his friends call him “Frenchie”.

Which pose is your favourite and why?
There are many, but one that challenges me every time and brings me joy after I’ve done it is Headstand.

Would you say that yoga has changed your life?
Yoga definitely kept me sane during my corporate time, and to some extent did change my life, as it is now a big part of it being a full time yoga teacher!

What is your favourite thing about teaching at Stretch?
The students! Interested, curious and engaged!

What 3 poses would you recommend for a beginner to practise daily?
​As much as asana is a big part of yoga, I would recommend practicing pranayama daily for at least 5 minutes (alternate nostril breathing is a good one). Followed by 5 Sun Salutations A!