Elyssia Antonatos
ICN NSW Figure & Figure International Overall
“I first started working with Daniel at the beginning of this year after deciding that I wanted to realise my goal of stepping on the bodybuilding stage. Whilst I have been training consistently for the better part of six years, I knew I needed to find a coach that was a step above and would bring out my best for my debut season.
From the get-go, I was amazed by DC’s extensive knowledge, professionalism and attention to detail. His approach to training and nutrition, underpinned by a focus on data and science, is very impressive. For the first time, I truly felt like an athlete. I immediately noticed changes in my physique and mindset even after a short offseason period before starting our contest preparation.
Whilst prep is often considered an incredibly difficult endeavour, my experience throughout the seven month period was very positive and didn’t feel a lot more challenging than a regular offseason. I credit this to Daniel’s tailored programming which was also very reactive to any changes or curve balls that came up along the way.
I would describe the whole process as seamless and am sure I would not have achieved such great stage results without having him in my corner. I am very excited to continue working with Dan for my offseason/build phase and can’t wait to see what I am capable of with such a great coach and mentor by my side.”
Guile Da Costa
INBA Australia Men’s Physique Overall
PNBA Men’s Physique PRO Card
“Training under Daniel Chapelle aka DC , for the past year has been one of the biggest and most important experiences in my bodybuilding journey. As someone who’s been in this sport for a while , it’s not easy to find a coach who can guide you through a full stage prep with real precision, HONESTY , and true care. But DC did exactly that.
Stage prep is not only about macros, posing, or steps. It’s about trust. Trusting the plan, trusting the changes, trusting the timeline, and trusting the man who’s guiding you on the days when your body feels empty but your purpose feels strong. From the first week of prep , DC earned that trust. Every adjustment had a reason. Every check-in was clear. And in the hardest moments, he always had the right words to keep me going.
He reminded me how much of a privilege it is to live the bodybuilding lifestyle – the discipline, the routine, the grind, and the little daily victories that most people never see. DC didn’t just make the process possible, he made it meaningful. He pushed me, guided me, and helped me raise my standards in every part of my life as an athlete.
If you want a coach who really understands this sport and knows how to bring the best out of an athlete, DC is that coach. He won’t only prepare you for the stage – he’ll teach you to trust the process, respect the lifestyle and most importantly honesty and a true love for bodybuilding and his athletes. Thank you DC for making me a better athlete!”
Trent Greer
OCB Australia Bodybuilding Overalls & PRO Card
NBA Asia Pacific 1st PRO Master’s Bodybuilding & Classic Physique
“I’ve been coached by Daniel Chapelle (DC) at HYPERTROPHIQ for ~18 months. Although this was my first competition season under DC, it was my fourth season overall – and the difference was obvious. I’m about to turn 50, and DC’s programming precisely complemented my needs as a more mature athlete: smarter workload management, joint-friendly exercise selection, intentional deloads, and recovery protocols that let me train hard while staying healthy.
Having worked with other coaches, I can say confidently that DC is, in my view, an industry leader in competitive health and fitness. His knowledge is second to none, and I truly appreciate the time he takes to explain the ‘why’ behind every training and nutrition decision.
DC brings a phenomenally positive outlook that lifts more than your physique – it lifts your mindset and life outside the gym. During my season he was travelling internationally to compete himself, yet he still prioritised his clients’ needs without missing a single check-in or being even marginally late. That level of commitment and professionalism is rare.
If you’re looking for a coach to take your physique or performance to the next level – especially if you’re an older athlete who values longevity as much as results – DC has the skill set, standards, and care to get you there. An absolute professional, a gentleman, and a pleasure to work with.”
Ajay Sharma
INBA Australian Nationals Classic Physique Overalls
As of today Daniel and I have completed 2 epic competition seasons together across 2023 & 2025, with the inclusion of my first structured improvement season between these years. Together we were able to make my DREAM in bodybuilding come true this year, earning my Classic Physique Pro Card and competing in my first international debut – the PNBA Natural Olympia!
Morgan Blake
NBA QLD 2nd First Season
NBA QLD 3rd Novice
NBA QLD 3rd Open Class A
Gabrielle Eastwood
Season B 2024 Achievements:
WNBF Australia Figure Overall Champion & PRO Card
WNBF Australia Fit Body Overall Champion & PRO Card
ICN Australian Nationals Figure Overall Champion & PRO Card
ICN Australia Nationals Figure PRO Champion
“Absolutely love having DC as a coach! He has been incredibly professional from the get go, and brings such a positive attitude. His knowledge of bodybuilding – and everything it encompasses – is next level. His passion for the sport & as a coach is palpable.
I came to Daniel with the idea of doing one competitive season only, and as soon as I finished that season, I was thinking about the next. In my first season competing with Daniel as a coach, I was able to win pro cards in both the federations I competed in, which was wild to me & just made me so excited for what we could achieve next time!
He is very receptive to my feedback, so the prep felt more like a collaboration which was very manageable and actually enjoyable. I have full trust in the plans Daniel provides, and knowing all I have to do is tick the boxes to get the desired results gives me a lot of confidence. There’s really not much more you could ask for from a coach!”
Taylor Gibbon
Season B 2024 Achievements:
NBA Swimsuit PRO Card
ICN Australian Nationals Bikini Overall Champion & PRO Card
ICN Australia Nationals Bikini PRO Champion
“DC took me on in July 2023 as a newbie to everything nutrition and training and turned me into an ICN and NBA PRO by October 2024. DC has an unbelievable amount of knowledge in his field and took the time to teach me everything I needed and wanted to know. He filled my toolkit with so many tips and tricks and gave me invaluable knowledge that will benefit me in every area of life.
In our 8 month build before starting prep, DC juggled my physical commitments as a competitive cheerleader tailoring a perfect plan to ensure we were still optimising progress from a bodybuilding perspective. Coming into the prep I felt so confident in my ability to stick to the plan as he listened to me and crafted a plan that perfectly suited my life and got me where we needed to come peak week.
Besides all of this, my favourite thing about having DC as a coach was that he not only taught me everything to know about nutrition and training, but he taught me that your mindset is the most important aspect of a prep. As a coach, DC shaped my mindset to focus on self-belief and resilience, helping me to stay focused and feel comfortable in the uncomfortable aspects of a prep.
More importantly, at times when I was overwhelmed or doubting that I was good enough to step on stage, DC motivated and supported me not only as a coach, but as a mentor and a friend. DC understands prep from a first timer’s perspective and shaped me into an athlete capable of completing a prep and feeling confident in myself.
DC would always say I was in the driver’s seat and he was the passenger guiding me along the way but the truth is DC was the primary driving force behind the success of my first prep, he was the driver and by following his every word I achieved so much as an athlete and as a person.”
Jong Lee
Season B 2024 Achievements:
NBA National Fitness Overall Champion & PRO Card
NBA National Fitness PRO Champion
“Thanks to Coach DC, 2024 became a breakthrough year for me. I won multiple competitions, earned my Pro Card at the NBA show, and even went on to win my Pro debut.
Over the past four years of bodybuilding and preparing for competitions, I managed my own training and nutrition without much difficulty. However, as I aimed to push beyond my limits and view myself more objectively, I decided to invest in a coach.
At one past competition, I saw a competitor and thought: “If I ever hire a coach, it has to be him.” That person turned out to be my coach, DC.
Over the course of five months, DC quickly assessed my physique and provided precise, tailored feedback to steer me in the right direction. From the moment I chose him as my coach, I placed complete trust in his judgment, and that trust paid off. He helped me achieve one of the best conditions. I have ever brought to the stage.
Anyone with real experience in bodybuilding or competition prep knows it’s not just about the workouts or diet. It’s about having a coach who understands how to fine-tune every detail and support you mentally when it matters most. DC did exactly that. He provided the coaching style I was looking for: detail-oriented, honest, and fully committed. The difference between preparing alone and preparing under his guidance was night and day. Thanks to him, I was able to express my absolute best on stage.
Even backstage, right up until the moment I stepped onto the stage, DC never stopped supporting me – mentally and physically. For that, I’m sincerely grateful. If you’re planning to step on stage and considering hiring a coach, I wouldn’t hesitate for a second to recommend Coach DC.”
Lochie McCorry
Season B 2024 Achievements:
OCB Australia Bodybuilding Overall Champion
OCB Australia Bodybuilding PRO Card
“Working with Daniel has been an incredible experience in my bodybuilding journey. His unwavering support and meticulous attention to detail played a huge role in helping me bring my best physique to the stage and win the OCB show last year.
Daniel’s phenomenal nutrition guidance and targeted training plans helped me achieve the best results I’ve seen to date. His knowledge and dedication to my success made me feel like a top priority at all times.
Even with a lot going on behind the scenes in my personal life, his encouragement kept me focused and confident throughout the entire prep.
Winning the OCB show and earning my pro card was a dream I’ve had since I first joined the gym as a teenager back in 2014 and I truly couldn’t have done it without Daniel’s expert guidance.
If you’re looking for one of the best coaches in Australia to help you reach your bodybuilding goals, I couldn’t recommend Daniel and his coaching more highly.”
Chloe Tanzer
Season B 2024 Achievements
ICN QLD Wellness Open Class Winner
“From the very beginning of my journey with DC through to competition day, I experienced not only noticeable progress in the gym but also meaningful personal growth. DC took my goal of stepping on stage seriously, helping me set a realistic and structured timeline to achieve it. Their approach was grounded, supportive, and tailored to my individual needs.
What stood out most was how smooth my prep felt. I often hear about the intense “suffering” that comes with competition prep, but my experience was quite the opposite. Because DC had already established strong tracking habits and structure during the off-season, transitioning into prep was seamless and surprisingly enjoyable.
Every step of the way, I felt guided, supported, and part of something bigger. I have loved every minute of my bodybuilding experience and upon reflection I’m elated and filled with nothing but gratitude for DC. He made this such a positive and fulfilling journey. The friendships I’ve built with fellow competitors have been invaluable, and being part of this team has made me feel truly welcomed and connected with like-minded, driven individuals.
I can’t recommend DC enough for anyone looking to pursue bodybuilding in a balanced, empowering, and sustainable way.”
Selwyn Lawrence
Season B 2024 Achievements
NBA Master’s PRO Card Winner
“After a 25 year break from competitive bodybuilding, I decided to compete again. The fire that once burned within me had been rekindled, and I couldn’t ignore the longing to step back onto that stage.
From the very beginning, Daniel took the time to understand my aspirations and tailored a comprehensive training and nutrition plan specifically for me. which pushed me beyond my limits, constantly challenging me to strive for excellence. His knowledge of the sport and attention to detail ensured that every aspect of my preparation was meticulously planned and executed.
On the day of the competition, I felt confident and well-prepared, thanks to Daniels’ meticulous planning and attention to detail. His guidance during the posing routines and backstage support helped me showcase my hard work and dedication on stage.
I am incredibly proud of the results I achieved, and I owe a significant part of my success to Daniel THE MAN, my coach. Daniel’s expertise, dedication, and unwavering support were the driving forces behind my transformation. I am forever grateful for his guidance and mentorship, and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking to achieve their fitness goals. Thank you, coach, for helping me become the best version of myself.”
Leanne Dodsworth
Season B 2024 Achievements
ICN Sunshine Coast Sports & Fitness – Top 3 Placings
CN QLD Sports & Fitness – Top 3 Placings
ICN Australia Nationals Sports & Fitness – Top 3 Placings
“I’ve had the privilege of working with DC for the past two and a half years, and the level of coaching I received was truly unmatched. Dan’s positive attitude, expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for his athletes are incredibly inspiring. He brings a perfect balance between empathy and accountability – always supportive yet focused on getting the job done.
Competing in 2024 was an absolute highlight for me. Every phase from off-season to pre-prep, contest prep, show day protocols, and recovery—was meticulously planned and delivered. Even during a post-injury recovery period, I felt fully supported and encouraged, with thoughtful modifications to my training that kept me motivated and progressing.
Dan, I think we ticked a lot of boxes! The knowledge and best practices you’ve instilled in me over this time have made a lasting impact, and for that, I’m very grateful. You’re an exceptional coach and a true role model to the team around you.”
Evelyn Pochapski
Season B 2024 Achievements
ICN Sunshine Coast Swimsuit & Bikini – Top 3 Placings
CN QLD Swimsuit & Bikini – Top 3 Placings
ICN QLD – Posing Award
“I started working with DC when I decided to do a bodybuilding competition. From the first phone call, I knew we would be a great match because of his kind and welcoming energy. Bodybuilding was completely new to me. DC took the time to explain the ins and outs and was patient with me while I navigated it all. We started with an offseason, where he taught me how to macro track, pose, and execute exercises correctly. I have always enjoyed the gym, but working with DC made me truly fall in love with training hard and achieving my goals.
As a first timer, entering a prep was terrifying but DC made it exciting for me. He was always there to answer the 100’s of questions I had and motivate me to tick the boxes everyday. It was so great to know that your coach is by your side, whether it’s taking the time to go with me to a posing workshop, or even just someone to talk to on the hard days when nobody else understood. DC was always there for me, as he is for all his clients.
Show day was an absolute blast! DC was there the whole day to help me feel relaxed and excited. I was so lucky to be apart of such an amazing team and got the opportunity to make lifetime friends. There is nobody else I would rather have getting me up on stage for the first time, I am so grateful for getting to work with DC.”
Vyncent Chau
Season A 2024 Achievements:
ICN Australian Nationals Fitness Open Class Winner
ICN Australian Nationals Fitness PRO Card
“I have been working with Daniel for the past 9 months or so and I have got to say, it was the best decision that I have ever made for myself as an athlete. The pin-point accuracy, immense backstage support, complete transparency and fountain of knowledge that I have picked up within the short time span of 9 months, I will carry for the rest of my life.
Not only did Daniel bring out my best physique on stage as promised but he also has made me a better coach to my own clients through his guidance, protocols and insights. I cannot recommend Daniel enough to any athlete who is looking to elevate their overall performance, physique and knowledge in bodybuilding.”
Elissa Abbott
Season A 2024 Achievements:
IFBB Australian Nationals True Novice – 1st
IFBB Australian Nationals Novice – 2nd
IFBB Australian Nationals Open’s – 3rd
“I have been working with Daniel for over a year now and have just completed my first comp season under his guidance. I had the best experience for my first prep! I thoroughly enjoyed the process, and the attention to detail Dan gave through every check in/email/phone call was next level.
He ensures I understand the why for everything we do, and always has in-depth answers for any question I have. Post-show, I still have the same level of detail and support from Dan to guide me through my next phase. He is a wealth of knowledge, and just an all round great dude.
I’ve had the most positive introduction to my bodybuilding career being coached by Dan, and I’m super grateful to have him in my corner!”
Hieu Diep
Season 2024 A Achievements:
ICN Sunshine Coast Classic Physique Overall Champion
“After suffering a severe lower back injury post my first bodybuilding competition in 2014, and battling mental health issues for a few years, I decided to embark on my journey back to the stage. I commenced coaching with Dan, whose unwavering support and expertise brought out the best in me. With aspirations of securing top 3 in my bodybuilding classes and seizing the overall title for Classic Physique Division, I placed my trust in Dan, and he exceeded all expectations!
Dan’s coaching wasn’t just about nutritional updates, sets and reps; it was a deeply personal journey of growth and achievement. His meticulous attention to my nutrition and training instilled a sense of confidence and assurance, making every step of the process meaningful and rewarding. Working alongside Dan was an absolute privilege, and his passion for excellence inspired me to push beyond my limits.
I’m profoundly grateful for Dan’s guidance and mentorship, which not only helped me achieve my goals but also enriched my understanding of bodybuilding and self-discipline. Without hesitation, I wholeheartedly endorse Dan to anyone seeking not just a coach, but a trusted partner in their personal fitness journey.”
Sean Stewart
Season A 2024 Achievements
NBA QLD Bodybuilding Overall Title
“As someone who was already somewhat in to my training and nutrition I knew I wanted to take it to the next level and enter bodybuilding properly with help from a coach, but I only wanted to do it with the best who were more meticulous and deeper in to it than myself, and from working with Daniel that’s exactly what I got.
His systems and data management for athletes was so well crafted and executed we knew exactly where we were heading or where to improve on at all times with the ability to plan and predict things months ahead. From structuring my training, nutrition, posing and much more he helped me craft my approach behind the scenes so I could make progression through all of it whilst continually learning the science and developing a long-term philosophies I’ve been able to integrate in to the sport and life.
Working with Daniel was imperative to accomplishing what I did in my season and in the offseason, I wouldn’t have been able to get the gains or the level of conditioning I did without him in my corner. Having Dan as my coach gave me more than just that but also gave a studious mentor who could share with me the best science and research in the field and someone who could push me and keep me accountable to the goals I wanted to achieve.
I was able to develop a better mindset for bodybuilding and see both long and short sighted visions to truly build the physique and attitude I wanted to in this sport and understand it holistically. In getting to the stage and having a productive offseason having Dan there was priceless, what I’ve learnt I’ll have the knowledge of forever and will be able to stay a lifelong contender of this game whether on or off the stage.”
Christian Couper
Season A 2024 Achievements
ICN QLD Men’s Fitness First Timer’s Winner
“I’ve been with Daniel for almost 2 years now and can say with confidence that joining his coaching was the best decision I’ve ever made. I started in 2022 with the initial goal of stepping on a bodybuilding stage. Daniel closely guided me through my off season and into my first ever competition in season A of 2024.
From every aspect of my diet, training and even mental state Daniel tailored everything to what I needed to accomplish my goal and become the best version of myself.There was never a question that went unanswered and I always felt listened to, you can tell that Daniel really cares about his athletes.
Not only was Daniel my bodybuilding coach, but to me he was also a mentor, through the passion he brings to his work – he’s also just a great human being. After I achieved my goal of stepping on stage I ended up placing in every category I enrolled for and even won my Men’s Fitness First Timer’s.
I couldn’t have been happier with the results but the lessons I have learned throughout have been priceless and I can’t wait to further improve in my offseason and bring an even better package next time!”
Georgia Cook
2023 Season B Achievements:
ICN ACT Wellness Overall Champion
ICN Australian Nationals Wellness Champion
“2023 was my first season under Daniel. When Joining I had already competed 2 seasons with 5 shows even though placing well I felt like I was missing something. What originally prompted me to move was the attention to detail in programming I saw from another of his client’s.
Daniel instantly made me feel comfortable and at ease, having a conversation with DC was so easy and he asked me all the important questions and as a coach they are the things I need to be aware of. Daniel took on what I want to achieve as an athlete and he pushed me like I wanted.
After finishing the season we ended with 2 state titles and an Australian Nationals Championship. Now into the off-season and couldn’t be happier with Daniel, I’m learning everyday. Nutrition, training and mental health I’m sorry to tell him but he will be stuck coaching me for a long time
If you want to level up I would recommend Daniel any day. He actually cares.”
Tom Watson
Season B 2023 Achievements:
ICN QLD Fitness Open Class Winner
“Working with Daniel Chapelle was a complete game-changer for me. His coaching took my training, nutrition, and mindset to another level.
Daniel’s attention to detail and genuine passion for what he does made all the difference in my prep.
He didn’t just write a plan and walk away. He was there every step of the journey, adjusting when needed, pushing me when I needed it, and backing me fully throughout the season.
Winning the Open Class was an incredible achievement, but more than that, it was the process and growth that meant the most to me. Daniel played a huge part in that.
He taught me how to approach bodybuilding like a true professional while keeping it personal and purpose-driven.
I couldn’t recommend him more. If you want to level up, this is the coach you want in your corner.”
Joshua Wall
Season B 2023 Achievements:
ICN Australian Nationals Physique Junior Champion
“DC took the time to go through my previous training history, strong & weak body parts and daily schedule in order to develop a training plan specifically to address my goals and needs. He also dissected my diet and developed a meal plan based around my likes and dislikes tailored to the macro and micronutrient requirements he decided optimal for the phase.
DC came to all the shows with me, developed a clear and concise show day plan and was an irreplaceable mentor on the day helping with tan, pump up, posing and much more. We had a great season, taking out 1st in my first timers class, 1st in the open class in ICN Tropix & ICN QLD, placed top 3 at ICN Nationals and took home the U23 QLD & National title. I was absolutely over the moon with the placings for my first season and wouldn’t have been able to do it without the guidance of DC.
I could not recommend Daniel high enough if you’re thinking of undertaking a competitive bodybuilding endeavour. If you follow the plan you will be more conditioned then you could imagine whilst holding the maximum amount of muscle. You know you have a good coach when other competitors at shows compliment him on how conditioned he gets his athletes, a step above the rest.”
Tyla Arnold
Season A 2023 Achievements:
ICN & NBA QLD – Swimsuit & Bikini Top 3 Placings
“Before starting prep I had only been training for 10 months on and off. Looking back at progress pictures from the start of prep compared to my end result is honestly insane. Daniel provided me with so much knowledge about training, nutrition, lifestyle balance and what I am truly capable of achieving.
Daniel always helped calm my nerves and would regularly check up with me to make sure I was ok. It’s honestly the smallest gestures he did which made him the perfect coach for me. I always felt comfortable talking to Daniel about my worries and concerns. I am also vegetarian and found Daniel so professional and knowledgeable when providing nutritional plans that catered to my needs.
I had four back to back competitions in which Daniel ensured I was prepared for. He always listened to me and knew when was the right time to push me and when I needed time to breathe. Being a great coach to your own competitors is one thing, but being a genuine and humble coach to other competitors and coaches is what truly demonstrates leadership and integrity.
I never thought I would be walking away with the amount of medals I did. Even though the medals were definitely a bonus, the biggest win during prep for me was learning patience, sportsmanship and discipline. These wins would never have been achieved without Daniel being an amazing coach and person I will forever look up to and admire.”
Taejin Min
Season A 2023 Achievements:
ICN VIC Bodybuilding Overall Champion
ICN VIC Classic Physique Overall Champion
”I have worked as a trainer for 10 years and have prepared for competitions several times on my own. However, I have never been able to achieve satisfactory conditioning. I thought about getting coaching for the first time, and Daniel became my first coach.
You may have heard that online coaches are often uncommitted, but Daniel meticulously checks my condition every week, manages my mental state, and designs plans for me. Thanks to that, I was able to make progress every week.
I always focused on only one category, but this time, I competed in bodybuilding and classic physique together for the first time. The result was that I became an overall champion in both categories. If you are with Daniel, you will definitely achieve your desired goals.”
Michael Li
Season A & B 2022 Achievements:
ICN QLD Men’s Physique Overall Champion
NBA Australian Nationals PRO Card Winner
ICN Australian Nationals PRO Card Winner
“I worked with Daniel in both season A & B of 2022 with the goal of winning a PRO card in Men’s Physique in my 40’s.
The year started with an overall win at the season A ICN QLD show. From this win I knew I could achieve my goal, so I decided to continue my prep into season B.
We then ended up winning two PRO Cards at both NBA Australian National Titles & the ICN Australia National Titles.
It was amazing how we did it without stress and we had never miss a peak on any of those 3 shows.
Most importantly we were more like a family than coach and client. This is definitely the A team for me!”
Nick Tankey
Season B 2021 Achievements:
ICN ACT Bodybuilding Overall Champion
ICN ACT Bodybuilding Gold Class Champion
ICN Bodybuilding PRO Card
“Working with DC has been an absolute pleasure! Leading into my shows last year, he was a great source of information and always there to lend his advice and an extra set of eyes even though I wasn’t his client!
Moving into the off-season, we have worked well together and he has provided me with exceptional coaching, always available when I need him! He has always worked around any issues that I may have in and out of body building! I’m more than excited to have him steer the ship as I move into my next contest prep!
I cannot recommend him highly enough to anyone who would like to begin their body building journey, or for those who are keen to take that extra step and be in contention against the very best!”
