Name: Boris Sapone
Company: Colosseum Training Center
Title: Owner, lead coach
Describe your business.
Colosseum Training Center’s new 3,000-square-foot facility opened Oct. 26 at 3306 St. Rose Parkway, Suite 110, Henderson. We offer workout programs for all levels, from beginner to competitive athlete. Colosseum boasts world-class amenities in a clean and safe environment, as well as certified coaches who cater to each member’s goals and level of fitness.
You used to run your workouts outdoors in business parks. Why open a training center?
Although I enjoy the outdoors and natural environment, I found it challenging to meet my clients’ needs due to Las Vegas’ extreme weather. By opening a training center, I can provide my clients with the necessary tools to achieve their fitness goals in a controlled environment.
What was it like having clients work out in business parks?
It was challenging at first, and there was slight resistance. However, once we got started and developed a routine out of it, clients began to enjoy being outdoors, and the resistance dwindled. Even during the extremely hot months, most clients stayed committed to their fitness.
What attracted you to the fitness industry?
I discovered my passion for fitness while I was in sports programs at Green Valley High School. At first, my goal was to better myself. Exercise was a way to relieve stress from school and work. It allowed me to learn what my body could do.
After some time, I started helping others achieve their fitness goals, and it made me experience my own success over and over again.
What is the most rewarding part about helping people achieve their fitness goals?
After months or sometimes years of hard work and sweat, the day arrives when my client steps on that scale, fits in those jeans, or looks in the mirror and says, “Wow! That’s me! I did it!” That is the moment I find most rewarding.
What is the best business advice you have received, and whom did it come from?
A motto in my family was, “Aim for the stars. Worst-case scenario, you will land on the moon.” I am not sure who started it, but my mother would say it. It became how I start my day.
What challenges do you face doing business in the valley?
Competition is extreme, and there are many well-qualified trainers here.
If you could change one thing about Las Vegas, what would it be?
Las Vegas is a city of hopes and dreams. Unfortunately, there are unhealthy habits here. I want to provide a service that will help people deal with those habits and perhaps create better ones that will allow them to live healthier lives.
What are you reading right now?
“The Alchemist,” by Paolo Coelho. It’s the story of a boy and his journey to discover a treasure, the challenges he encounters on his travels, the people he meets and the choices he has to make to follow his dreams.
What do you do after work?
I try to spend as much time with my family and friends. Usually, it’s dinner and a movie on my couch. It often takes me two days to finish a movie since I tend to fall asleep.
Describe your management style.
I like to lead from the front line and by example. I want my employees to know that this is more than just a job. It’s a family of people who want to better their lives and the lives of those in the community.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
My goal is to help as many people as I can. So in 10 years, I would like to have multiple locations and a very long list of happy, satisfied and fit clients.
Whom do you admire and why?
My father is the hardest-working and most supportive man I have ever known. He’s stood by me through all the challenges that life has thrown my way.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Quitters. Life is full of challenges and when one chooses to give up, it’s not just themselves they let down but everyone around them.
What is something that people might not know about you?
I have been watching “Vampire Diaries” for the past few years. And I enjoy almond chocolate milk.
What advice do you have for people trying to get in shape?
Never give up on yourself, no matter the challenges. This is the only body you have been given, so treat it well and it will treat you well. Push your limits, and become the person you always wanted to be.