Sam Wood Facing Domestic Violence Charges, Steps Down from Fitness Empire

Melbourne-based fitness influencer Sam Wood has been in custody on the Sunshine Coast since his weekend arrest, facing charges related to alleged domestic violence.

Wood, 46, was charged on Sunday with assault occasioning bodily harm and strangulation in a domestic setting. The charges stem from police reports of an incident at a Noosa property on Saturday night. He is scheduled to appear in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Thursday to apply for bail.

Wood's lawyer, Matthew Cuskelly, stated that his client intends to defend the charges and is concerned about his family. The matter briefly appeared in court on Monday, though Wood was not present. "The charges will be defended," Cuskelly confirmed.

The online fitness company Wood fronts, 28 By Sam Wood, announced on Monday that he has been stood down indefinitely pending the investigation. DBG Health, the parent company, issued a statement emphasizing its zero tolerance for domestic violence and expressing thoughts for those affected.

"While the matter is under investigation and before the court, Sam Wood is on indefinite leave from his duties," a DBG Health spokesperson said. Mark Watkins, COO of 28 Group, will lead the business in Wood's absence.

Wood gained national recognition as a star of the third season of The Bachelor in 2015. He later founded the successful home fitness business 28 By Sam Wood, reportedly sold in 2022 for over $70 million, though he remained its public face.

A statement shared on Wood's social media, also posted by his wife Snezana, indicated the family is cooperating with authorities during this "difficult time."