07 Feb From Fitness Instructor to Studio Owner: Carina’s Journey in the Trades
For many, starting a career in a skilled trade is about finding something you love and growing within it. Carina’s journey in the fitness industry is an excellent example of how gaining experience in a field can lead to incredible opportunities—even business ownership.
Discovering a Passion for Fitness
Carina started her career as a dance and kinesiology major in college, unsure where her future would take her. She was required to take a Pilates class as part of her coursework. What started as just another requirement quickly turned into a passion, and she took the next step by earning her Pilates certification.
From there, she pushed herself even further, becoming a personal trainer and later a Lagree instructor at a fitness studio in San Diego. Over the next four years, she continued honing her skills, eventually gaining the opportunity to film for Lagree on Demand, an online fitness platform. Each step in her career helped her gain confidence, experience, and the ability to guide others through effective fitness training.
A Path to Business Ownership
Carina never set out to be a business owner, but through years of experience, she realized she wanted more. She loved the Lagree Fitness Method and knew she wanted to continue participating in it. Then, an opportunity presented itself: some used Lagree Megaformers (specialized fitness equipment) were going on the market.
Without hesitation, Carina traveled across the country to Florida to check them out. It was there that she saw her future clearly. With years of experience under her belt, she was ready to take the next step—not just as a fitness instructor, but as a studio owner. She secured the equipment and found a retail space, and today, she is the proud owner of Define Lagree in San Diego.
Growth, Challenges, and Advice for Others
Now managing a team of part-time employees, Carina is thriving as a business owner and mentor in the fitness industry. She is incredibly happy with her decision and only wishes she had taken the leap sooner. Looking back, she encourages others not to get stuck in perfectionism but instead to focus on the big picture—growth happens by moving forward, not by waiting for everything to be perfect.
Start Your Own Journey in a Skilled Trade
Carina’s story reminds us that careers in skilled trades can evolve in unexpected ways. Whether in fitness, healthcare, or another hands-on field, opportunities often come from gaining experience, building connections, and being open to growth.
If you’re interested in exploring a skilled trade and want guidance on where to start, Trade Works USA can help. A greatfirst step is taking our career assessment, where you can connect with a mentor and begin mapping out a path that fits your skills and interests.
Take the first step today by completing your FREE career assessment.
Your future in the trades is waiting, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.