By Pyc Fitness
©2004-2008
Daniel DeGuardi and Yare Molina are walking advertisements for the benefits of working out. It's not just something they do after work — it is their work.
DeGuardi and Molina own Body Glo Fitness, in a small slice of space in a strip mall at the northwest corner of North Oracle Road and North First Avenue.
"People don't feel comfortable in a bigger gym," said DeGuardi. "People want to get in, do their workout and get out."
They opened the fitness studio in April 2006 and are pumped up about their new venture.
"I love what I do. I love working out myself," said Molina, 34. Molina's family owns Casa Molina, a local restaurant mainstay. She has been a trainer for two years. "I took a huge turn, going from Mexican food to here," she said.
Deguardi, 27, has trained hundreds of people since he started his career in fitness 6 1/2 years ago. He stays current with new training techniques by attending seminars and conventions.
"We want to make Oro Valley a healthier population," he said. "I wanted to create a total health and wellness package."
Each client gets the complete tools to become healthy: nutrition guidelines, a cardio program, and workouts based on their needs and goals.
The colorful studio is packed with endurance-building, muscle-toning and core-strengthening equipment.
Ruth Cooper, 47, started exercising at the studio more than a year ago.
"I really like the personal attention. They match exercises to your ability so you can maximize your time," she said. "They always change the exercises and it's not boring."
Molina said varied workouts move more muscle and keep working out interesting.
"A lot of woman are self-conscious. It's easier to show them how to do an exercise in a smaller environment," said trainer Amy Cann, who has been working at the studio for about 14 months.
Client-turned-trainer Heather Peeler said, "It's very fulfilling. I'm contributing to other people's healthy lifestyles."
Nurse practitioner Rachel Gordon, 32, started working out at the studio about 10 months ago.
"After having the baby and having gestational diabetes, it was time for me to practice what I preach to my patients," she said. "I was able to reclaim who I was before my pregnancy."