Julio Salado, our September Trainer of the Month, joined the industry in 2004 when he fell in love with the science of movement and felt an empowerment to help others. Julio is founder of Fitnessfoundry.net, a leading online resource for health and wellness. For over a decade, he has guided countless individuals from all levels of fitness to achieve their body sculpting and personal training goals. He is also an educator and continuing education provider. His experience includes strength & conditioning training with disciplines in bodybuilding, TRX suspension training, Olympic lifts, kettle bells, power lifting, post rehabilitation, senior training, cross training, sports performance, Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan and personal training business development.
Certifications/Qualifications: NSCA-RCPT*D (National Strength and Conditioning Association Recognized Certified Personal Trainer with Distinction), USAW and USAPL Coach, Certified TRX and Kettlebell Instructor, CEU Provider and Mentor
Awards/Recognition: Voted #2 Boston Best Personal Trainer by The Boston A-List. Ranked out of 53 clubs from Boston and Surrounding Areas. Most recently, featured in PT Today (UK’s leading personal training magazine). Boston Globe, Boston Magazine, Local and National Syndicated Radio Shows, Podcasts, TV programs and this summer I created the “SPARTA Seniors Show!” carried by Malden Public Access TV
Author of 3 Books:
BREAK OUT of Breaking Even!: 3 Step Method for PROVEN Long-Term Weight Loss
How to Become an A-List Personal Trainer: Fundamentals for Optimal Service-Branding-Success
SPARTA SENIORS Synchronicity of Science, Perception of Limitations, & Movement: A New Method to Build and Support Intrinsic Capacity in Older Adults
Studio/Business Name: Fitness Foundry
Website: www.fitnessfoundry.net
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fitnessfoundry
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/fitnessfoundry
Twitter: www.twitter.com/fitnessfoundry
Instagram: www.instagram.com/fitnessfoundryUSA
YouTube: www.youtube.com/fitnessfoundry
What inspired you to start your business?
In 2004, I was gainfully employed with a 9-5 job and would regularly attend my local YMCA. I was approached by a trainer and was asked if I was a personal trainer. I looked over the AFAA book at that time and fell in love with the science of movement and empowered to help others.
What is one hard lesson you’ve learned in business you believe has been most valuable?
To practice self-care and know it is ok to not be #1 in training sessions for your club. There is trade-off with training many hours and it can affect your physical and mental health. It is ok to say no to clients; they usually understand and reschedule.
If I asked one of your clients why they choose you over other places/gyms/trainers, what would they likely say?
Listening. I listen to their SMART goals and for each session I listen to make sure the workout is safe and conducive to their goals.
Name one or two ways you are trying to raise the bar in the industry?
Educating new trainers about the differences of salary vs. commission positions. Knowing the difference will set expectations (e.g. sales vs. salary). Secondly, the importance of taking advantage of social media, social networking with local businesses and creating a brand. All it requires is some creativity and time. Building their own brand will not conflict with working for a club. It will only assist them in servicing a broader audience. We are service providers and can work towards the betterment of our community via videos, articles, podcasts, local events and more.
