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(CNN) — Almost 20 years ago, Joey Gonzalez He reluctantly entered his first class at Los Angeles Barry’s Bootcamp fitness studio. “It was very nerve-wracking and a real barrier to entry because I thought it would be too difficult,” he says. But after leaving the class, her heart races for another reason: “I set the best time even though I wasn’t the fastest or the strongest. I loved the feeling of being surrounded by like-minded, warm and friendly people.
Gonzalez returned again and again, going from client to instructor to studio manager. He soon became so personally invested in Barry’s that he decided to invest his own money in the business and open a few studios.
Now Gonzalez is the global CEO of At Barry’s and oversees 85 sites in 14 countries.
“I think a lot of brands and companies struggle to touch the minds of consumers, but Barry’s isn’t one of them,” he says. “I can’t take credit for it. A lot of people at a leadership level here all have that passion for the brand. We have all seen our lives transformed by Barry’s.
For the uninitiated, a typical course at At Barry’s (he gave up “Bootcamp” in 2014), consists of high-intensity cardio and strength training. But Gonzalez points out that despite its original militant image, the experience is now “much more enjoyable”.
“Everything has been renamed,” he says. “Instructors teach differently. And we really pay special attention to beginners to dispel any myths. We always tell you not to be a hero and go at your own pace. But you can still measure your success and progress.
Gonzalez speaks first-hand: He still takes three to five classes a week and teaches a few times a month in various locations. Before starting his day in Los Angeles, he detailed his seven workout must-haves for CNN Underscored.
Don’t underestimate this pair of cushioned socks. “You can walk around in it and it looks really cute with a nice pair of shoes and if you put on some running shoes and do eight miles you’ll be comfortable,” Gonzalez says. Each pair is made from 92% nylon and 8% spandex to target compression and reduce the risk of blisters. (There’s no pesky seam in the toe, either.)
“I really don’t like the fabric crossing my knee,” Gonzalez says. That’s why he opts for these lightweight, lined 5-inch gym shorts. The sweat-wicking garment features a flexible knit waistband that’s soft to the touch and zippered phone pockets on both hips to prevent bouncing. And during weightlifting, he adds, “You can actually see your musculature on your legs and quads.”
Gonzalez singles out this relaxed-fit tank top, which is “tight and loose in all the right places.” Wicking sweat and drying quickly, it also features “No-Stink Zinc” technology to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Additionally, Gonzalez raves about the open cut in the back: “A lot of men’s tank tops cover you up, but here you can see the muscles. I’m not the most modest, just to be honest!
On a recent trip to Mexico, Gonzalez wore this set of three resistance bands that includes a resistance band (for the arms), a booty band (for the ankles), and a mini band (for the thighs). “They’re easy to carry because they’re so light,” he says. Each uses body tension to work a different muscle group to help improve strength and agility – with less risk of injury compared to free weights.
“I’m pretty dedicated to running shoe brands that have dedicated their existence to running,” Gonzalez says. Mizuno? Yeah. Saucony? Certainly. He’s also a fan of his black Brooks Running trainers, designed to be comfortable and breathable with their Creel Warp mesh fabric and cushioned midsole.
Because sometimes old-fashioned crunches just aren’t enough. “It’s one of my favorite ways to do abs because you work your chest, shoulders, triceps and more,” he says. “Basically, you get down on your knees, hold the handles, and stretch out like you’re Superman.” (This compact wheel has rubber handles for easy grip). Gonzalez recommends doing three sets of 20 roll-outs per session: “You’re going to feel it the next day!”
“They’re pretty awesome,” Gonzalez says of his ultra-modern frames. In addition to providing sun protection, these blinds are equipped with a state-of-the-art audio system and microphone. You can also slide your fingers along the right temple to adjust the volume and double tap to access your phone’s voice assistant. Plus, a rechargeable battery provides up to five and a half hours of playtime.