Meet Justin Barington of Vital Fitness Studio and Equinox

Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Barington.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
It’s so hard to believe now, but I was a shy, self-conscious, introvert growing up. I never would have dreamed I’d be in the roles (both part-time and full time) I’m in today. I was so scared of being my true self, in fear that I would be judged or hated for being different. I built a shell exterior to hide, and I was content. It wasn’t until college that I started understanding how dark and lonely that life was going to become.

When I came out, my world changed forever! It was terrifying but amidst the hardship, it felt like I was truly breathing for the first time. People could finally see me for me. More importantly, I could finally see myself. I began opening up to people and build confidence in speaking and listening to their stories. I found, that like me, everyone had their own version of a “shell” or struggle in their life they were constantly battling.

Fast forward to about two years ago, I found myself in a place of change. New city, job, life, it was stressful and I needed an escape. I found that escape in an indoor cycling class at The Ride House (boutique studio in Dallas). In 45 minutes, I rode a stationary bike and was quickly captivated by the music, light show, and instructor. Each element created more than a fitness experience but a therapeutic journey.

The way I see it, cycling class is a lot like life. It’s a journey that takes you through steep hills and low valleys, where we’re surrounded by people (both friends and strangers) that are all just trying to do the best they can. We laugh, scream, sweat, cry and no matter how easy or challenging… we make it. We always do.

Today I am so honored to be a part of the Dallas Fitness Community as an instructor at Equinox and Vital Fitness Studio. I definitely never take being on these platforms for granted. My goal for each of my classes is to help people with not only their fitness goals but to just LET GO of all that may be holding them back. Reminding each rider that we’re all going through our own struggles and we are not alone.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?

In my thirty years, I’ve learned to welcome challenges and struggles. I have had many dreams and goals that didn’t play out the way I had hoped, but now I’m finding myself in opportunities far better than I ever dreamed of. It’s all about trusting the process.

Please tell us about Vital Fitness Studio and Equinox.
I am a Group Fitness Instructor for Equinox and have fallen in love with the “can do” attitude it promotes for both employees and clients. Equinox is so much more than a gym. It’s a community of people from all walks of life and all levels of fitness, all celebrating each step as they move closer to their goals.

I also teach Indoor Cycling for Vital Fitness Studio. My class is a 45 minute, choreographed, sweat drenching indoor cycling experience that helps you escape the outside world and focus on you. Going to a new gym or studio can be intimidating, Vital breaks down all of those self-built walls. From the moment you walk into the door, you become part of a family, our family. It’s a good time!

If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I don’t regret my experiences. But if I could go back and do it all over again, I would work on not being so hard on myself and put more energy on celebrating the small wins in each day.

Image Credit:
Headshots: Kourtney Davis Photography

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