Today we’d like to introduce you to Marisol Garcia.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am Marisol Garcia, a 27-year-old proud Latina from McAllen, Texas, where my Mexican heritage runs deep. My journey has been a complex tapestry woven with threads of determination and unwavering passion. I’ve faced challenges that tested my resilience, shaping me into the person I am today—a journey I wouldn’t trade for anything in the world.
Growing up, I grappled with issues related to body weight and body image. It was a tough path, filled with obstacles, but these experiences were instrumental in molding the person I’ve become. My life took a transformative turn when I discovered cycling. It was more than just exercise; it became a profound source of empowerment, self-discovery, and a sanctuary for my mental well-being.
Throughout this remarkable journey, my boyfriend and I, together for nine years, have become the ultimate power couple. He’s been my rock, my steadfast supporter through every twist and turn life has thrown our way. With his background as a concert producer, graphic and visual artist, advertising and media expert, and my own expertise in architecture, construction, and design, it was only natural for us to combine our talents and bring iiCE to life. Together, we’ve weathered storms and celebrated triumphs, and his unwavering support has consistently given me the strength to push boundaries and pursue my dreams.
My story is one of transformation, empowerment, and turning challenges into opportunities. My journey from architecture and aviation to fitness entrepreneurship reflects my versatility and unwavering determination. Through iiCE Fitness, I have created a space where individuals can transform their lives, drawing inspiration from my own resilience and passion. My story is not just about fitness; it’s about believing in oneself, pursuing dreams relentlessly, and turning obstacles into stepping stones toward success.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey has been marked by its fair share of obstacles and challenges. Among the most significant was a life-altering accident that led to the amputation of my toe. This setback could have easily deterred me, but I am not one to back down from a challenge. Instead, I turned adversity into an opportunity and discovered a profound love for cycling, ultimately making it my workout of choice.
The process of opening and establishing iiCE Fitness presented another monumental challenge. Balancing a full-time job with the demands of entrepreneurship is no small feat. However, I was not alone in this endeavor. I assembled an incredible team that supported my vision and helped transform it into a reality. Together, we navigated the intricacies of construction, logistics, and all the nuances of starting a business.
My determination to overcome these challenges speaks to my resilience and unwavering commitment to my vision. These experiences have instilled in me a non-conforming attitude, a spirit of relentless innovation, and an unwavering belief that no obstacle is insurmountable.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about you and iiCE Fitness?
My professional background is indeed diverse and unique. I hold a degree in architecture from the University of Texas at Austin, and what sets my journey apart is that I simultaneously obtained my private pilot license during my time there. This unique combination allowed me to merge my passion for aviation with my architectural expertise, opening up exciting possibilities. This phase of my life was marked by a deepening love for aviation and a growing appreciation for the ways in which architecture and aviation could intersect. After completing my education, I embarked on a successful career as an Architectural Designer and Aviation Project Specialist at one of the leading architecture firms in the nation. I found inspiration in the idea that these seemingly distinct fields could come together to create something truly innovative.
As I continued to explore my professional journey, I discovered another passion: indoor cycling. This has been my cherished hobby since I was just 16 years old. Now, 11 years of cycling experience and 9 years of certification, my love for cycling eventually converged with my architectural background and aviation experience to give birth to iiCE Fitness. This fusion of interests and expertise resulted in the creation of a fitness studio that goes beyond the ordinary, offering an immersive indoor cycling experience that is both innovative and empowering.
I have poured my heart and soul into every aspect of iiCE Fitness, from its design and construction to its production and technology. It is a space that embodies my core values, and I am not merely the founder; I am the creative force behind it all. iiCE Fitness offers a transformative workout experience that takes riders on a journey like never before. What sets us apart is the careful orchestration of various elements that come together to create a truly immersive experience.
Our production values are second to none. We invested in top-tier production, ensuring that every ride is a transformative adventure. From the music that fuels your spirit to the dynamic lighting that sets the mood, every detail is crafted to enhance your experience.
Our skilled instructors are the guiding stars of this journey. They bring passion, energy, and expertise to every class, motivating and challenging you to reach new heights. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and they create an atmosphere where you can push your limits while feeling supported every step of the way.
But iiCE Fitness is more than just a workout; it’s a welcoming environment. We’ve cultivated a community that embraces diversity, where riders of all backgrounds and fitness levels come together to achieve their goals. It’s a place where you can be yourself, find inspiration, and build lasting connections with like-minded individuals.
The reason I opened iiCE Fitness is rooted in a larger context within the United States and especially in Dallas. I noticed a significant gap in the fitness industry – there were very few, if any, cycling studios owned by Latinas. This realization sparked a desire to break the mold, to step out of the “boutique” fitness world where I never quite found my place, neither as an instructor nor as a member of a community that truly embodied inclusivity, diversity, and genuine warmth toward the Latinx community.
With iiCE Fitness, my mission was clear: to create a space that is authentically welcoming. I wanted to veer away from the intimidation that can often accompany the experience of boutique fitness studios. My vision was to establish a fitness haven where individuals of all backgrounds could feel not only invited but embraced.
iiCE Fitness, in essence, became a platform for me to shatter stereotypes and carve out a new narrative in the fitness world. It’s not just about offering exceptional cycling workouts; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging where everyone feels valued and celebrated for who they are.
In this endeavor, I aspire to inspire others to break barriers and redefine norms. iiCE Fitness represents a commitment to creating positive change within the fitness industry and the broader community. It’s more than just a studio; it’s a symbol of empowerment, diversity, and the belief that fitness should be accessible and welcoming to all, regardless of their background, where they come from, or what they look like.
In my day-to-day work, I am dedicated to crafting a unique fitness environment where every rider leaves feeling invigorated and empowered. My commitment to providing top-tier production enhances each rider’s performance and ensures they depart iiCE Fitness with a sense of accomplishment and renewed energy.
The diverse experiences and skills I’ve gathered throughout my career have contributed significantly to the unique vision and approach of iiCE Fitness. It’s a testament to how a diverse background can lead to innovative and groundbreaking ventures. I’m excited to continue this journey of creativity and empowerment, and I look forward to the exciting chapters yet to be written in the story of iiCE Fitness.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
My favorite app is the “Motivation” app! I love that I can customize it to pop up quotes of different topics throughout the day!
Pricing:
- $125- Unlimited Founding Membership
- $75- 5 Class Promo
- 1st Class FREE for VoyageDallas readers! Use code: “VoyageDallas”
Contact Info:
- Website: iicefitness.com
- Instagram: @iice.fitness @noresistancenoresults
Image Credits
Alan Baron
Joe Delgado
