In 1994, Mr Doherty left Bendigo to build on the existing Doherty's Gym brand.

Now, with six franchises in Melbourne Mr Doherty will return to Bendigo to share his experiences with local men.

Mr Doherty recently worked with Arnold Schwarzenegger to develop a fitness motivation program.

He said he is motivated by positive thinking and thought that was the best remedy for most illnesses.

He said it was important for people to do something for themselves.

He said he would preach the message of self-motivation.

"I will encourage people to do anything that helps them talk about psychological benefits of physical fitness," Mr Doherty said.

"A lot of people don't realise how good exercise is for you, mentally."

Mr Doherty said he hoped the presentation would open the minds of the audience.

"I don't even know where I would be without keeping healthy and fit," he said.

"It has kept me together through good and bad times."

His message has developed over the years into giving motivation for people to use fitness as a means of coping with stress.

"You don't have to be training as an elite athlete," he said.

"It's also not just about going to the gym.

"It's just about doing something - anything."

Mr Doherty hoped the audience would decide on making better life habits.

"A habit can be good or bad," he said.

"Your brain does not know the difference between a good and a bad one."

Mr Doherty said feeling good about yourself gave perspective to all of life's circumstances.

Mr Doherty will speak at the Men's Health Evening on Thursday, September 4 at the Capital Theatre.

For more information, call Bendigo Community Health Services on 5448 1600.