The Ninja Warrior television series is “a sports entertainment competition that pits competitors against each other by competing in extremely difficult obstacle courses,” their website says. 

The competition has been around since the late 90s. It originated in Japan before becoming popular in America and spreading to Australia this year.

Thousands of athletes from more than 20 countries have competed since its inception, however only seven people in the world have managed to conquer the course.

The South Coast can boast two claims to fame in this season – Milton competitor Willow Firth and Batemans Bay coach Justin Bellchambers. Justin trains with Canberra competitor Jenna Douros, and coached her for one-on-one sessions.

He shared a bit about her approach to fitness, training and the Ninja Warrior challenge.

“Jenna has always been crazy when it comes to training and fitness, and she’ll be the first to admit it,” he said.

“That’s the way you have to be to compete in something like Ninja Warrior. 

“I haven't seen anything like it before - her passion and commitment are something else.

“I first met Jenna at F45 where I worked as a coach; she trains there every morning at 6:15am.

“She never missed a day. 

“We quickly became good friends and started doing a few one on one sessions,” he said.

Mr Bellchambers also provided some insight into the training required to attain an elite level of fitness.

“Jen never had a training schedule, as training for people like us is not something you have to do; we live and breathe it,” he said.

“Jenna's training was broken down into cardio mixed with body weight movements in the morning. Straight after work she would head back for a weight session. 

“I put her through some really tough sessions to build up her strength. She was already very fit as she loves the feeling of being breathless. 

“She trained seven days a week - if she's not training she’s doing some other crazy thing like bike riding or rock climbing. 

“Jenna does all of this hard work with a smile on her face. Her passion for fitness and health is incredible.

“You can’t not like her – she will go out of her way for anyone, that's just who she is.

“She brings out the best in everyone, including myself,” he said.

Milton competitor Willow Firth is another positive-minded competitor.

Ms Firth’s job as a social worker was part of the inspiration for her to put her hand up for the challenge. She runs free fitness programs through an Aboriginal women’s health and welfare organisation. 

“I did it for the women at work to prove to them anything is possible,” she said. 

“Part of my job is to nurture and facilitate change. I am always pushing people outside of their comfort zone and I had to do that myself. 

“For me it was about being the strongest I possibly can be both physically and mentally and to be a role model.”

Ms Douros had a strong start but didn’t quite manage to complete the “rings to cargo net” challenge. 

Ms Firth made it to the “box jellyfish” obstacle.