Ex-Kiwi captain Pongia has taken on his own franchise of Bond Fitness, a London-based firm whose clients have included those pop princesses.

Since retiring from rugby league four years ago, Pongia has stayed in the area to work as a personal trainer.

He has studied about fitness extensively and has also kept himself in top shape – and is hoping to pass on his expertise.

"I reckon I'm fitter than I ever was as a player," he says. "I wish I was in my 20s again so I can still play the game! I'm feeling a
million dollars.

"It helps being an ex-pro but I've been studying for the last four years, because I didn't want to be seen as someone who finished in rugby league and just went straight into it. I wanted to be able to come from a science perspective as well."

Pongia, who lives in Manchester with his Wigan-born wife Susan, has been doing sessions with a few Super League players and would like to work as a consultant in the game in the future.

But for now, he is happy getting his new business venture off the ground. He visits and trains people across the region and also takes on pairs and boot-camps.

"I use a variety of techniques and work with all sorts of people," says Pongia, who played for Wigan in 2003 and 2004.
"Some people might not feel that confident or motivated in the gym, and
I've had people who think they're fit and they want to get fitter.

"Rugby league gave me confidence and training and being fit can do the same. I want to change people's lives for the better."

Pongia can be contacted via 07793 630241 or through bondfitness.co.uk.