Mapule Ndhlovu, aka ‘Queen Fitnass’, is reinventing wellness for a new era of fabulously fit South Africans. 

In the social media space and fitness world at large, Mapule Ndhlovu, better known as Queen Fitnass, is celebrated for her strength, resilience and ability to inspire others – not to mention her dazzling smile and positive aura. As the face of our ‘Reinvention’ issue, she reflects key values to embrace this year: a fresh outlook, a renewed sense of purpose, and a balanced approach to wellness. Rising from humble beginnings in Alexandra, Soweto, to become one of Africa’s most impactful ‘fit-fluencers’ and an Adidas brand ambassador, Mapule’s journey is truly inspiring.  

Journey to Fitness 

Though she was born in Soweto, Mapule moved around quite a bit during her childhood, circling Alex, Tembisa and Brits. An only child on her mom’s side, she was brought up by strong women like her mother, aunt and grandmother. “I come from a very colourful family! Even with their differences, they tried to raise me the best way they could. I went to seven different schools and lived with various family members,” she says.   

Fitness was the last thing on her mind. “I mean, growing up in Alex, health and fitness is not something that one is really exposed to,” Mapule admits. “Running, to me at the time, was an emotional release, and I decided to also join the aerobics class offered by one of the local gyms just to keep myself active.”  

In 2012, Mapule got a life-changing opportunity when she was sponsored to study exercise science at the Institute of Fitness Professionals (IFP). This then led to her studying sports management too. At the same time, Mapule worked as an instructor at Broadacres Virgin Active in Fourways. Not long after gaining this momentum, the fitness fundi set her sights on personal training. “Gym is my happy place… Because I really love what I do, it’s easier for me to make the time for my clients and training because I’m at the gym the whole day,” she says. 

Mapule has gained recognition as one of the first black female personal trainers to work at the Virgin Active Alice Lane Classic gym in Sandton, and Africa’s first Women’s Health Nextfit star (in 2016). She’s also gained international experience, especially with regards to group training (Group RX). 

We live in a society where people tend to want quick fixes and instant gratification; people don’t have patience any more

Work & Wellness 

Mapule has grown over the years, creating a brand that positions her as one of the most influential trainers in women’s fitness in South Africa. She’s worked with the likes of actor Amanda du-Pont, model Neo Kgolane and Touch Central radio host Rorisang Thandekiso. 

If you visit Mapule’s social-media platforms, you’ll be in awe of all the amazing workout tips and motivation she shares with her followers. Her workouts are approachable yet challenging, catering to everyone from beginners to fitness enthusiasts. She’s constantly reminding her audience that fitness is a personal journey – one that should fit into your life, not the other way around. However, she doesn’t see herself as a content creator per se. 

“I genuinely focus on myself and try not to be or act like someone else. It’s easy to compare yourself with others and lose yourself in the name of creating content,” she says. “Authenticity means everything to me. I’ve started channelling my energy towards things that bring me joy, like focusing on becoming a better version of myself.” For this gym guru, it’s all about listening to her body and giving it what it needs, while maintaining a healthy state of mind and sense of self-worth. 

“We live in a society where people tend to want quick fixes and instant gratification; people don’t have patience any more… I sometimes do blame us trainers because we don’t openly share the truth,” she admits. 

“A healthy lifestyle improves one’s overall quality of life. Once people realise that the physical body transformation is just the cherry on top, I believe we will have more people choosing to make the necessary, holistic lifestyle changes.” 

Partnership meets Purpose 

Mapule has quickly become known as the beauty with muscle, who has the voice and presence to advocate for positive change. Collaborating with brands like Totalsports, Deep Heat, Verve Card, Medshield SA, Powerade, Huawei and Red Bull, she’s been in a powerful position to reshape minds and educate a new generation.  

As an Adidas brand ambassador, Mapule doesn’t just wear the title; she lives it. She aligns with the brand’s philosophy of inclusivity, innovation and pushing boundaries, which is evident in her training style and messaging. 

“The most memorable project I’ve consistently worked on is with Adidas, in various campaigns. Being given a platform to inspire people from all walks of life to elevate themselves and their health means everything to me,” she says. “Now, I even get to travel all over the world, sharing my love and passion for fitness.”  

She’s an integral part of the AdiClub, promoting concepts like ‘More than lifts. It’s a lifestyle’, and keeping her fans in the loop about the latest apparel launches. 

So, what’s next for this busy body? “My big goal for 2025 is to become an online fitness coach so I can help people all over the world.”  

An Empowered Body 

For Queen Fitnass, working out and going to gym isn’t about perfection, but about finding balance, strength and self-love. Her approach to health is holistic, emphasising physical, mental and emotional well-being. This balance is what she most wants to share with others, particularly in an era where wellness can often feel inaccessible or commercialised. She encourages women to listen to their bodies, prioritise rest and fuel themselves with intention. “Don’t make drastic changes. Start small and set realistic goals. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Invest in yourself. You can’t pour out of an empty cup,” she reminds us. 

When it comes to fuelling her own body, Mapule states that having a realistic, logical relationship with food has made all the difference. “With my diet, I try to keep it very simple and consistent. When I stopped feeding my emotions and started learning how to fuel my body correctly, my relationship with food became a game changer.” 

Mapule also prioritises downtime to limit her stress levels, which can take a toll on her, mentally and physically. With a vision to launch community fitness events and online wellness workshops, she aims to push the narrative that ‘fitness is for all’. “I want to create spaces where women, especially young girls in communities like Alex, feel seen and inspired to chase their own dreams.”  

As we step into a new year, Queen Fitnass’s message to us all is clear: reinvent yourself, embrace every challenge, and prioritise your well-being. For her, 2025 is about pushing boundaries and rewriting the narrative around fitness and health so that it’s accessible, sustainable and empowering for all.  

When I stopped feeding my emotions and started learning how to fuel my body correctly, my relationship with food became a game changer

Quick Q&A 

• Style Staples: I love my shorts and crop top matching sets. A new favourite is adding track pants, just for vibes. 
• Favourite snack: Plain yoghurt with honey. 
• Happiness is… Choosing to do the things that bring me joy, peace and contentment. 
• Best training hack: Have a dope playlist – the rest will follow. 
• The mantra you live by: The goal is bigger than the obstacle… Don’t compare yourself with others, and always strive to become a better version of yourself. 
• Favourite book: As a Man Thinketh by James Allen. 
• 3 Things you can’t live without: Music, gym and food! 

Keep up with Mapule

Instagram: @queenfitnass
Facebook: Mapule Ndlovu
X: @queenfitnass
TikTok: @queenfitnass1

Words by: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photos: Courtesy Images, Supplied