When Springbok and Sharks flyhalf Jordan Hendrikse decided to level up his training environment, he went all in. The result is a custom-built home gym that not only supports his physical development but also reflects his mindset around recovery, discipline and performance.
Why He Built It
“I’ve always dreamed of having my own space dedicated to health and fitness,” says Jordan. “It’s not just about staying active and living a healthy lifestyle. For me, the gym is where I recover and reset. It’s my personal zone for training, creating content and staying connected to the lifestyle I’m passionate about.” Fort Fitness helped bring that vision to life, but Jordan was hands-on from the start.
Designing a Space That Works
He didn’t just pick the equipment. Jordan was deeply involved in every part of the build. “It was important for me to create an environment that truly reflects how I train and recover. I even got stuck in with painting, installing the ceiling and setting up the lighting. I wasn’t just building a gym. I was creating a space where I could fully lock in and be in my element.”
READ MORE: How Jordan Hendrikse Finds Balance Between the Try Line and Personal Passion
What His Sessions Look Like
A standard training session begins with stretching or mobility work. Then it’s into strength circuits with one or two compound lifts, superset with core work. “It depends whether I’m doing upper or lower body,” he says. “And a good session also needs good music.” His favourite tool in the gym? The transformer machine. “It’s an all-in-one piece of equipment that lets me train any muscle group. I use it all the time.”
Training Like a Pro
Becoming a professional hasn’t changed his love for fitness. If anything, it has sharpened it. “I’ve always enjoyed being outdoors and moving my body. Becoming a pro helped me understand my body more and taught me how to train smarter.” At the moment, recovery is top priority. “It’s one of the biggest boxes I need to tick building up towards match day.” Jordan believes it starts with understanding your body. “From there, it’s about creating balance with the kind of training that fits your lifestyle.”
Training at Home Hits Different
“I actually find training at home more motivating,” he says. “I can get into my zone more easily.” In the off-season or recovery blocks, his days are structured and intentional. “First, I rest. Then I start with a running block in the morning, do mobility mid-day, and hit weights or gym work in the afternoon. I usually stretch again in the evening before bed.” Having a gym at home has changed how he thinks about training. “It’s always there when I need it. That makes a big difference.”
Advice for Young Players
Jordan’s advice is simple: “Take time to understand your body and train based on your goals. There’s a lot of good information online but make sure it’s from the right sources. You don’t need a fully-equipped gym for every session. Be patient with yourself and your progress.”
What Peak Shape Means
“For me, being in peak shape means I’m 100% ready to perform. It also means I’ve ticked all the small boxes that get my mind in the right space. That comes from preparation. And emotionally, it’s the passion I have that drives me. When I enjoy what I do, everything else follows.”
READ MORE: WATCH: The Ultimate At-Home Workout to Get Ripped
Quickfire Round with Jordan Hendrikse
- Favourite workout track: Malunde (feat. Springle) by Shakes & Les, 031choppa & Zee Nxumalo
- Go-to post-training meal: Chicken pasta
- One item he can’t train without: Water bottle
