Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren DeStefano.
Hi Lauren, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My inspiration behind fitness came from a 10 year battle with anorexia and bulimia. I spent years battling with my disease, not knowing how to take care of my body or my mind. During my recovery process, I found a healthy form of movement. Instead of working out to “look” a certain way, I realized it was more about how it made me feel. It created a change from the inside out. Not only did I see a transition in the gym, I also became more confident, calm, consistent, and powerful in other aspects of my life outside of the gym.
Part of my training style is being a vessel for my clients to find that change within themselves. I refer to myself as a guide. I create programs for my clients tailored specifically to their needs, but they are the ones who put in the work. I strive to create safer space for people to tap into the power that already exists inside of them, and provide support as they reach their goals.
I believe there is always something to learn from ourselves and from others. Fitness is more than just working out, it inspires change, builds character, and promotes self love. And that is what I love most about it!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth road! But I wouldn’t be where I am today without the journey that got me here. I struggled with my confidence in terms of my abilities and experience. I often doubted myself and wasn’t sure how I was going to make it happen.
I knew I wanted to help people and be of service, but I wasn’t sure what that looked like.
I tried different opportunities and put myself out there multiple times, but I couldn’t find something that I felt completely aligned with.
Once I got into training, I knew right away it was for me.
The biggest thing I had to learn, was to be able to take direction and criticism, but also apply what I knew in my own way.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a personal trainer in Costa Mesa. I focus on strength and conditioning. I am also a certified yoga teacher and I like to apply those practices in my training.
I would say the biggest thing that separates me from others is that I work from the inside out. I try to be supportive and constructive while giving my clients the space to find their confidence within themselves. I’m there as a support and of course to focus on technical aspects of training, but I truly believe each person carries the strength within themselves to build the life they want; I’m not that powerful. I meet my clients where they’re at that day; if the program doesn’t align with how they’re feeling physically or emotionally, we pivot. I think it’s important to remember that simply showing up is work itself, and I like to encourage my clients to listen to their bodies.
I’ve witnessed this internal growth with my clients, and seeing them thrive is an amazing reward!
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Family and human connection matters most to me. My family is the most important thing in my life. No matter what, my family has always been my backbone in everything I do. Human connection is a privilege; sharing experiences, knowledge, and love is the greatest gift! You never know what someone is going through, and it’s important to be kind. By practicing self-love, we can show up better for ourselves and others, and that creates a ripple effect. Connecting with other people is a powerful thing.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Laurendestefano
