Today we’d like to introduce you to Richie Petruziello
Hi Richie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey into the world of health and fitness began in 2010. This was fueled by a desire to make a positive impact on my community by promoting physical and mental wellness. From a young age, I was immersed in athletics, learning about balance, coordination, agility, strength, speed, and recovery. I loved how movement made me feel and wanted to share that passion with others.
At the gym, I noticed many individuals who needed guidance—people approaching me with questions about equipment usage, injury prevention, and effective workouts. Each time I helped someone find their way, I felt a deep sense of gratitude and fulfillment. This experience sparked a realization: I could be more than just a fitness enthusiast; I could be a catalyst for change.
I joined Equinox in 2010, where my commitment to helping others flourished. I was committed to climbing the ranks to become the top trainer at the Palos Verdes location. In 2014, I earned recognition as the #1 Trainer at the Palos Verdes branch, and by 2015 was ranked one of the Top 100 National Trainers within the Equinox network. My training methods reinforce my core values: to seek innovative fitness strategies while making wellness accessible to a broader range of communities. I tailor my approach to each individual’s unique needs, goals, and capabilities.
In 2020, I took a bold step and launched my own training business during a pandemic, which was very challenging. Two years later, I discovered EMS (Electric Muscle Stimulation) technology. Recognizing its potential to enhance workouts, I became certified and integrated this cutting-edge method into my training sessions. EMS training maximizes efficiency, delivering incredible results in less time, allowing me to take on more clients, and is perfect for those with busy lives. My services include In-home training, Online training, Nutrition coaching, EMS training, and In-Studio Training.
As a certified EMS Performance Coach, NASM CPT, CES, and Precision Nutrition Level 1 practitioner. True wellness comes from a harmonious blend of exercise and nutrition. I am dedicated to creating customized meal plans that complement training to ensure achievable sustainability and well-rounded transformations.
My mission is to support clients every step of the way on their fitness journey. I aim to unlock their true potential, overcome obstacles, and celebrate victories—big and small. I embark on this transformative journey together and make fitness goals a reality.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road to becoming a personal trainer has been filled with challenges, both mentally and financially. I’ve had moments where everything felt like it was falling apart—like when my car broke down, leaving me stranded, or the times I worked three jobs just to barely cover my bills and afford food. There were days when it felt like failure was all around me, and the only option that made sense was to pack it up and go back home.
But through all that adversity, something inside me kept pushing forward. I knew that my journey wasn’t over, that there was something more for me. Each challenge, no matter how difficult, became an opportunity to learn, grow stronger, and stay focused on what I could control—my preparation and my availability for when the right opportunity came along.
The mental toll was heavy, but I’ve always believed that those tough moments were leading me toward something greater. And they did. Now, I get to help others transform their lives, reduce their pain, and feel more confident in their health and fitness. It’s those very struggles that made me appreciate the reward of what I do today.
Every setback was a setup for the next step in my journey. I had to trust that even in the darkest times, I was being prepared for something better. That optimism and belief in the bigger picture is what kept me moving forward, and it’s why I’m here now, doing what brings me joy. I have been blessed with a great core group of clients who promote me and I see them as part of my family.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?When it comes to what I do, it’s not just about fitness—it’s about creating a lifestyle that supports your overall well-being. I offer a variety of services to meet different needs: from in-home and in-studio personal training, to online coaching, EMS (electro muscle stimulation) training, and nutrition coaching. Whether you’re looking to improve your strength, mobility, or overall health, I tailor my approach to fit each individual’s goals and lifestyle.
Beyond fitness, I see life as a beautiful and exciting journey. I’m driven by self-motivation, always working through my bucket list and living fully through my experiences. I believe in moving with positive energy and music is a big part of that for me.
I also love the simple pleasures: great-tasting food, spending time in cafés, relaxing on the beach, laughing at a good comedy, and dancing. Health and fitness are at the core of my life, and I thrive on being active daily. Whether it’s a workout, a hike, moving my body around, or just doing some breathing exercises, I believe in staying engaged with life.
Good company is equally important to me. Spending time with friends and family is a priority because the people around us make life’s moments richer. Everything I do, from training clients to enjoying the world, is about living in a way that feels vibrant and full.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I read a lot of self-help books. I am currently reading Eckhart Tolle “Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose”. Some others are “Zen” by Chris Prentiss, “Finding Flow”, by Mihaly Csikszentmahalyi, “Muscles and Meridians” by Phillip Beach. The Trail Guide To Your Body by Andrew Biel.
I like Duolingo, Luminosity, Headspace, Calm, and Wimhoff.
I like Ben Greenfield, Prehab Audio Experience, and Bulletproof Radio.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.richfitems.com
- Instagram: richiepetruziello
- Facebook: richie petruziello
- Twitter: richie petruziello
Image Credits
Samantha Wong – Photographer
edited by weareadx.com ADX – Advanced Digital Experts
