In this episode of Inspire and Move, I’m joined by my favorite co-host and husband, Matt Arruda, to share how we turned our dream of owning a gym into the thriving community that is Benchmark Fitness. We talk about the challenges we faced, like buying the gym just before the pandemic and navigating lockdowns, to how our passion for creating a space where people feel seen and supported kept us moving forward.

We reflect on how having a clear vision helped us push through the toughest times. From rebranding the gym to creating a holistic wellness club with options like red light therapy, cold plunges, and member socials, every decision was made to better serve our community. We also share the sacrifices and strategic investments it took to turn our vision into reality, and why building genuine relationships was at the heart of it all.

Tune in to hear more about:

• How having a clear vision can guide you through even the toughest challenges.
• The importance of investing in your community and creating a space where people feel truly connected.
• Why resilience and the ability to pivot are crucial for any business owner.
• The impact of reimagining what a gym could be by integrating wellness, recovery, and community events.
• How making sacrifices and strategic investments can accelerate growth.

If you've got a dream that feels out of reach, I hope this inspires you to keep going! If you felt encouraged by this episode, it would mean the world to me if you could share this with a friend and leave a review or rating! Stay tuned for new episodes weekly & connect with use on socials @AlliArruda and @Matt_Arruda!

Upcoming Events:
GIRLFRIENDS WALKS are back!
Next Walk:
-Arizona - Sunday August 17th
-Oakville - Wednesday August 20th
It’s more than a walk—it’s an opportunity to build authentic connections, meet like-minded women, and even spark collaborations or new business opportunities.
Check www.inspireandmove.ca/store to get tickets & join me for the next one!

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