Coaches Spotlight: Joel Zayas
Meet coach Joel.
Joel is one of the owners and coaches here at R3VIVE. Aside from coaching classes, Joel is the marketing director and assists with developing nutrition programs for his clients. When he’s not at R3VIVE, Joel is usually developing websites as a senior web developer, reminiscing about his break dancing days, or enjoying a craft beer.
Q: How did you get started in fitness?
Through my previous years of break dancing and gymnastics. I wanted my fitness routine to match the fun and intensity of when I would dance and flip on spring floors!
Q: What made you want to open up a gym?
I wanted to bring a higher value of service to an already thriving and established community of fitness lovers. The old gym I managed had weak ownership and I wanted to do more for our members and be close to the area I’ve lived in my entire life! Opening a gym to me was/is the best way to serve my community, by providing the service of health and wellness to all.
Q: How did you meet the other two owners?
We met at the old gym I managed, CrossFit on the Hill in Roxbury MA
Q: What is one thing you want the members to know about?
That I am willing to go above and beyond for everyone who walks through our doors! I highly enjoy seeing people transform, not just physically, but mentally, building the confidence to perform at a high level over the course of time as a member at R3VIVE. Making sure everyone has that same experience is something I thrive for.
Q: What is the meaning behind the name R3vive?
The name coincides with a new beginning. Our old gym had a great community of members, coaches, and staff, but was severely underserved by ownership. I thought the word REVIVE was the best way for us to describe what we were doing for them and for the community of Roxbury / Nubian Square.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about R3vive?
Without a doubt, our members. Everyone has a special being/pretense which they bring. It’s what makes me work hard and want to continue to provide the best quality of service for them. Since we’ve opened, I’ve been able to meet passionate, like-minded people that I can now call my friends.
Q: How has owning a gym impacted you? (ex. fitness, interests, etc.)
There have been some ups and downs, as with every business, especially since going through a pandemic not too long after opening. It’s helped me realize that if you are passionate about something, you are willing to go the extra mile to see it thrive. It’s shown me how capable I am when I’m focused.
Q: What do you want people to think and feel when they talk about R3vive?
I want them to reflect the passion we have for them when they talk to others. I want everyone who walks through our doors to have a sense of belonging, considering us as their “home” gym. I want them to feel safe and respected. I want them to know that ownership and staff all deeply care for their health and well-being.
Q: What is your favorite movement? Least favorite?
My favorite movement would be squats (any form of squatting really). My least favorite movement. would be running.
Follow on coach Joel on IG: @r3vivefitness_joel