Personal trainer moves to bigger digs in Brentwood

Name of business: Body By Santi

Type of business: Personal training

Owner: Santiago Lobec

Founded: September 2009

Address: 4525 O'Hara Ave., Suite B, Brentwood

Phone number: 510-478-3889

Hours: By arrangement

Number of Employees: 2

Products and services: Personal training and boot camp for athletes and weight control. Services include personalized exercise plans and nutritional programs. All age groups welcome, including children and seniors. Boot camps work with groups early morning and evening after work hours.

How did you get into the business: Lobec has been a personal trainer for 23 years. He started his career in Spain, where he was internationally certified to be a personal trainer. Lobec moved from Spain to California five years ago when he married a woman from the area. He opened Body By Santi in Brentwood at another location. He decided to move the business to a larger location on O'Hara Avenue. The grand opening for the new location was Oct. 9.

"I have a passion for life and keeping healthy," Lobec said. "I want to show my passion to them and help them with their personal goals."

Best part about the business: "Talking to people, working to get their goal and making the best workout plan for them," Lobec said. He explained that he works with individuals, and as such has to come up with the plan that works specifically for them.

"Every day will be different for them so that they will have fun and enjoy working out," he said.

Worst part about the business: Lobec said he is doing what he has always wanted to do and doesn't see a worst part.

Key to success: "Personality," he said. "It is what people are always telling me. That I have a good personality for this business."

Biggest misperception about the business: He said a big misperception is that "personal trainers are harder to work with." Lobec said one of the most important parts of keeping people on goal is to start off slow and work them into the program. He explained that many people want instant results, and that doesn't help people keep themselves in shape.
He also said it is important to work on a good nutrition plan when working on a weight-loss program.

Future plans: With the move, Lobec purchased new equipment and added more space to offer more room for his Boot Camp program.
— Roni Gehlke