As we age, it becomes even more imperative to take care of our bodies through activity and exercise. Regular physical activity helps to preserve muscle mass, improve joint flexibility, and enhance cardiovascular health, all of which decline as we get older. Staying active also supports mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, boosts cognitive function, and provides opportunities for social interaction and community-building – all of which are important in senior populations. 

But, these are all things Ruben Pereyra knows well. Ruben is the Senior Fitness Director at WESLEY Senior Homes, where he is focused on promoting and improving the health and wellness of the senior residents. With a mission to “pioneer a movement that ensures fitness is accessible to all, regardless of age or physical limitations”, it is no wonder that Ruben was just awarded the 2024 IDEA Emerging Trailblazer of the Year.

Learn more about Ruben Pereyra in Coach360 Top 24 Most Impactful Coaches of 2024 report.

Tell us your story in as little or as much detail as possible. Why did you become a coach? What do you consider your “superpower”?

From a young age, I always felt a calling to help people, though I didn’t quite know how that would manifest until a pivotal moment in my life. While playing soccer, I suffered a significant injury, tearing my PCL ligament. The path to recovery led me to physical therapy, where I discovered the transformative power of movement and healing. This experience sparked my passion for fitness and health, setting me on a path to make it my career.

I pursued my newfound passion academically, earning a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from Cal State Long Beach University. This education provided me with a solid foundation to understand the intricate mechanics of the human body and the importance of movement in achieving overall wellness.

My career has been driven by a deep commitment to breaking ageism in fitness and redefining what senior fitness can be. I have a special passion for working with older adults, innovating and creating specialized programs that are fun and engaging and address the unique needs of those with chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. My goal is to bring senior fitness back into the spotlight and demonstrate that it is both essential and enjoyable.

What truly sets me apart in the fitness industry is what I consider my superpower: my infectious personality. I have a unique ability to make fitness sessions fun and engaging while creating an atmosphere of calmness and energy where everyone feels comfortable and safe. This allows my clients to not only achieve their fitness goals but also enjoy the journey.

Over the past 16 years, I’ve devoted myself to the fitness industry, championing the importance of movement and its profound positive impact on individuals’ lives. My journey has been one of passion and perseverance, impacting personal fitness goals and contributing to the wellness of entire communities.

As an accomplished entrepreneur, I offer various fitness services designed to cater to all age groups. These services include personal training, engaging group exercise classes, brain cognitive function training, and providing fitness direction for educational institutions and prominent corporations. My unwavering dedication to promoting physical activity and wellness across diverse populations underscores my commitment to enhancing the quality of life through movement.

I am not just a fitness professional but an award-winning fitness coach. I was recently honored as the 2024 IDEA Emerging Trailblazer of the Year. This prestigious recognition underscores my exceptional skills, dedication, and positive impact on countless lives.

In addition to hands-on training, I am a revered presenter at elite fitness conventions such as IDEA, DCAC, SCW Mania, LA Fit Expo, ACSM, and more. My informative and inspirational presentations empower other fitness professionals and enthusiasts to elevate their practices and embrace healthier lifestyles.

I continue to innovate within the fitness industry, particularly with senior programming. I am committed to educating, coaching, and inspiring senior fitness and low-impact participants ready to begin their fitness journeys. My mission is to pioneer a movement that ensures fitness is accessible to all, regardless of age or physical limitations.

My story is one of unwavering dedication, professional excellence, and an enduring commitment to improving the lives of others through movement. My ambitions and leadership in fitness are transforming bodies and elevating minds and spirits, paving the way for a healthier and more active world. Whether through personal training, corporate fitness programs, or my revolutionary new ventures, I continue to inspire and lead, making a lasting difference in the lives of those I encounter.

What was the turning point or motivation for you to become a certified coach?

The turning point in my journey to becoming a certified coach was rooted in a desire to find my true purpose, a calling that has always been to move, touch, and inspire individuals through the power of fitness and wellness. My experiences and observations made me realize this, mainly as I watched my parents and grandparents age.

Witnessing the aging process firsthand sparked a deeper motivation within me. I wanted to be an example of how fitness can truly transform one’s life, helping people age gracefully and become stronger. I saw the profound impact that movement could have on enhancing physical health and overall quality of life, and I felt a calling to share that knowledge with others.

I believe that there are no limits to one’s greatness when one puts one’s mind to it. This perspective drove me to pursue certification as a coach, ensuring that I had the skills and knowledge necessary to help people achieve their personal best through movement. I wanted to guide others in unlocking their potential, demonstrating that they could overcome obstacles and embrace a more vibrant, active lifestyle with dedication and the proper guidance.

Ultimately, my journey into becoming a certified coach was fueled by a passion to help others achieve greatness through movement and to inspire them to live healthier, more fulfilling lives at every age. This purpose continues to drive me in my work as I strive to touch and transform as many lives as possible through the empowering benefits of fitness.

What were some personal challenges you faced during your professional journey? How were you able to address and overcome these challenges? Please share as much as you are comfortable as your journey can be someone else’s guide to transformation.

Throughout my professional journey in the fitness industry, I’ve faced several personal challenges that have shaped me into the person and professional I am today. One of the most significant challenges I encountered was self-doubt. I often questioned whether I was good enough to be a part of this industry, wondering if I had what it took to make a meaningful impact.

Initially, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to make fitness my career, mainly due to concerns about financial stability and whether I would be paid my worth. The path to becoming established in this field requires continuous education and multiple certifications, which can be financially and mentally daunting.

As a young fitness professional entering the realm of senior fitness, I grappled with the reality that many people often value those who match their own age and demographic. This added another layer of doubt, as I wondered if I would be taken seriously and whether my age would hinder my ability to connect with and effectively inspire older adults.

To overcome these challenges, I focused on creating a supportive network around me. I sought out mentors and people willing to take me under their wing to show me the ropes. Their guidance was invaluable, offering expertise, reassurance, and encouragement. Networking and learning from the best in the industry became my priority, as I dedicated myself to perfecting my craft.

Self-evaluation was another critical tool in my journey. I asked for client feedback, practiced my presentations in front of the mirror, and continuously refined my approach. This process helped me find my niche, understand my “why,” and embrace my worth. It also allowed me to become comfortable in my own skin and be my authentic self, which ultimately resonated with my clients.

By surrounding myself with the right people, actively learning, and embracing continuous self-reflection, I’ve managed to turn those initial doubts into confidence. I now know my worth and my journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to oneself. My experiences have been transformative for me and those I have inspired along the way.

What kind of support and resources did you find most valuable during your journey to becoming a health, fitness and/or wellness professional?

During my journey to becoming a health, fitness, and wellness professional, several key resources and forms of support proved invaluable in shaping my career and enhancing my skills.

One of the most significant resources was attending major fitness conventions. These events provided an incredible opportunity to learn directly from other fitness professionals who excelled in my niche. Participating in workshops and sessions with industry leaders gave me valuable tips and tricks that I could implement in my classes. These insights propelled my skills and knowledge to the next level.

Obtaining certifications was another crucial step in my professional development. The specialized certifications increased my credibility in the industry and deepened my understanding of effective practices within senior fitness. This formal training complemented the practical insights I gathered from conventions and workshops.

Mentorship also played a pivotal role in my growth. Having mentors who could guide me, share their experiences, and offer advice ensured that I stayed on the right path. Their support, encouragement, and wisdom were fundamental in helping me navigate challenges and make informed decisions throughout my career.

Building a team at work that shared the same vision and mission was another cornerstone of my success. Collaborating with like-minded individuals equally passionate about pushing boundaries within senior fitness created a supportive and dynamic environment. This team effort allowed us to innovate and develop programs benefiting our clients.

Networking was also essential. By connecting with other professionals in the field, I was not only able to share experiences and strategies but also receive valuable feedback. This constant exchange of ideas helped me continuously refine my approach and improve my craft.

In summary, the combination of learning from conventions, acquiring certifications, mentorship, teamwork, and networking provided a comprehensive foundation for my career. These resources and supports were instrumental in helping me advance and succeed as a health and fitness professional dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives.

Based on your experiences, what advice would you give to aspiring coaches who are aspiring to have a career in the health, fitness, and wellness industry?

Based on my experiences, there are several key pieces of advice I would offer to aspiring coaches aiming for a career in the health, fitness, and wellness industry:

1. Be Your Authentic Self: Authenticity is your greatest asset. Embrace who you are and let that shine through in your coaching style. Clients are drawn to genuine individuals; being true to yourself will help you build meaningful connections.
2. Know Your Purpose and Your WHY: Understanding why you want to be in this industry is crucial. Your “why” is your driving force and will keep you motivated during challenging times. Reflect deeply on what inspires you to help others and how you intend to make a positive impact through fitness.
3.  Find Mentors Who Will Push You to Success: Having mentors in your corner can make all the difference. Seek out those who have achieved what you aspire to achieve, and learn from their experiences. A good mentor will guide you, challenge you, and help you grow both personally and professionally.
4.  Never Give Up on Your Dreams: The path to success is rarely straightforward, and setbacks are part of the journey. Stay resilient and committed to your goals. Believe in yourself and your vision; remember that persistence is key to overcoming obstacles
5. Find Your Niche and Perfect It: Discover the area of fitness that you are most passionate about and where you can offer unique value. Focus your efforts on becoming an expert in that niche. Pursue relevant certifications to enhance your credibility and continuously refine your skills to offer the best service possible.

By staying true to yourself, understanding your motivations, seeking guidance, remaining persistent, and perfecting your niche, you will be well-equipped to succeed in the health, fitness, and wellness industry. Your journey can inspire and transform the lives of others, just as you have envisioned.

Where do you see yourself in the health, fitness, and wellness industry in 5 years?

In five years, I envision myself playing a pivotal role in the rise and transformation of senior fitness. My goal is to develop and implement innovative senior fitness programs that are accessible to all, regardless of their physical condition. I aim to collaborate with other professionals in the health, fitness, and wellness fields to enhance and expand these programs, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of the senior population.

I see myself as a prominent figure in the industry, designing impactful programs and mentoring and inspiring the next generation of fitness professionals. I want to guide them in understanding the importance of senior fitness and how they can contribute to this growing field. By sharing my experiences and insights, I hope to empower others to champion fitness for older adults and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Ultimately, I aspire to be someone who moves mountains—breaking down barriers in senior fitness and educating others about its critical importance. My mission is to continue growing as a leader and influencer, making a lasting, positive impact on the lives of seniors and shaping the future of fitness and well-being for this vital demographic.