Welcome to our Q&A series, where we delve into the journeys of entrepreneurs, business owners, and individuals passionate about branding and visual storytelling. Today, we're thrilled to kick off this series with our first guest and long-term client, Johnny Gisagara, the founder behind J.G. Fitlife, a fitness training and lifestyle brand.

What inspired you to start J.G. Fitlife?

J.G. Fitlife was born from a deep-seated passion for health and fitness. In early 2017, amidst battling moments of depression and stress, I found joy and empowerment in the gym. As fate would have it, my journey as a personal trainer began shortly before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

How easy or complicated is it to maintain clients and keep them motivated?

Maintaining clients and keeping them motivated in the fitness industry can challenging. Interest often fluctuates depending on various factors such as seasons or individual needs. Many clients come with specific goals and timelines in mind. However, from my experience, I emphasize the importance of finding enjoyment in the fitness journey itself rather than solely focusing on the results. Motivation can waver, but I encourage clients to prioritize discipline and cultivate healthy habits, as these are more sustainable in the long run. I also incorporate different workouts so that they are not used to the same routine. And adding music really helps.

Why did you start running?

I started running as a natural extension of my lifelong love for soccer. However, it became more significant after undergoing ACL surgery, during which I set a personal goal to run a 10K race within six months of my surgery. This commitment drove me to work diligently toward my recovery and eventual participation in the race. Following this milestone, I discovered a supportive running community in Boston called Pioneers, which further fueled my motivation to continue running. Each year, I found myself drawn to the challenge of increasing my distances, finding in running a new avenue for personal growth outside of the gym. Combining running with strength training has proven to be a perfect balance, enriching both my physical and mental well-being.

How was your experience running your first world major marathon, the Boston Marathon?

Running my first World Major Marathon, the Boston Marathon, was an incredibly special experience for me. Having completed my first marathon (26.True) the year before, I was familiar with the distance but lacked a structured training plan. For the Boston Marathon, I enlisted the help of my brother, who coached me through a rigorous 16-week training cycle. This training period marked numerous firsts for me, including track workouts, tempo runs, and learning about proper fueling and recovery strategies. The training itself became a cherished part of the journey.

Preparation is key but you also had some lessons along the way. Can you share tips with those running their first marathon?

Absolutely! Here are some essential tips for those embarking on their first marathon journey:

1. Approach marathon training with a sense of curiosity and wonder about what your body can achieve. Enjoy the process of discovering your capabilities and pushing your limits.
2. Marathon preparation requires consistent and dedicated training. Aim for a minimum of 16 weeks to adequately build your endurance and strength for the race day.
3. If feasible, hiring a coach can provide personalized guidance and support tailored to your needs and goals. However, if hiring a coach isn't an option, there are plenty of free training plans available online from reputable sources.
4. Training with others can offer motivation, accountability, and camaraderie. Look for local running groups or clubs to connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and gain valuable support throughout your training journey.
5. Don't underestimate the importance of rest and strength training in your training plan. Listen to your body, incorporate gym sessions days, and prioritize sleep, nutrition, and hydration to optimize your performance and prevent injuries.*
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What advice do you have for those wanting to start their running journey?

For those embarking on their running journey, my advice is to embrace the freedom that running offers. Find joy in running at your own pace and distance, and don't hesitate to challenge yourself along the way. Understand that improvement comes with consistency, and initially, it may feel difficult until your body adapts. To prevent injuries, prioritize recovery, maintain a healthy diet, and incorporate strength training into your routine. With perseverance and a balanced approach, you'll discover the immense rewards of the running journey.

Why is branding, including professional videos important for your brand?

In the context of our fitness brand, investing in branding, which includes professional videos, holds immense importance. It's a powerful tool for establishing our unique identity in the competitive fitness industry. With a professional video, we can effectively communicate our brand story, values, and the transformative journey we offer to our clients. These videos not only showcase our professionalism and commitment but also resonate with our audience on an emotional level, inspiring them to join us in their fitness endeavors. Its been a pleasure working with Shax Media to bring our visual storytelling vision to life. With Instagram putting more emphasis on Reels, posting professionally shot and engaging videos has strengthened our brand presence.

What’s in the pipeline for J.G Fitlife?

This year, I'm absolutely thrilled to unveil my brand-new training app. It's set to revolutionize the way my clients approach fitness, offering seamless access to check-ins, video demos, and their tailored workout plans – all conveniently housed on their phones. And here's the kicker – it's been put through its paces by my incredible regular clients over the past few months. As for me, I've got a flurry of races lined up as I continue my pursuit of fitness goals. Oh, and here's a little secret for you: there's whispers of a possible comeback for our outdoor boot camp this summer! Keep your eyes peeled and be sure to follow us for all the juicy updates!