Where Fitness Is Working Out
Jimmy Castillejos
Owner of Kauai Muscle and Fitness
Please tell us about your business. Kauai Muscle and Fitness is a 24-hour gym with membership access. Once members join, they have 24-hour service. This is a workout facility for anyone from beginners to advanced. We have many different machines and equipment available for use, such as Hammer Strength, Star Trac, Pre-Cor, Life Fitness and Magnum. We have weight machines, tread-mills, ellipticals and bikes. The facility is for men and women and includes a place to change and shower.
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- Jimmy Castillejos
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- Some of the cardio equipment available for use at the new Kauai Muscle and Fitness Lihue location | Coco Zickos photos
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- Castillejos encourages people to work out at least two to three times per week
How did you start this business? I was born and raised here, and my wife Alison wanted to move back from Oregon in 2008. The economy crashed and I couldn’t find a job, so we took a chance opening the Kapaa gym. We put all of our money into it and pretty much lived off of bread and water for awhile until business started to pick up.
Why did you start this business? All of my friends had nothing to do after 8 p.m. I noticed some of them were heading in the wrong directions, so I wanted to give them a better outlet and something to do.
What sets your business apart from others? I always make an effort not to charge outrageous prices. I don’t want to do that because I like working out myself and I couldn’t afford it. So we’ve kept our rates low – I want it to be affordable for everyone. I try to provide more for less and give people as much as I can for a low price.
What is your background in fitness? I’ve been competing in bodybuilding for about 14 years. I have done more than 30 shows on the Mainland.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of this business? Having people thank me for having a facility they can afford to come to.
What’s the most challenging aspect of this business? I don’t think there is a challenge. The more I take care of the people, the more they take care of me.
What makes you get up every day and go to work? My son Colton and my soon-to-be baby, who is due in February.
How important is it for people to work out? It’s extremely important. Ironically, the people who can’t afford to work out need the gym the most. So I try to give people the most reasonable rates so they can afford to come in here. Working out changes your entire lifestyle and brings you less stress. It also helps you eat better.
How often do you recommend working out? Two to three times a week for about 45 minutes to an hour. I’d recommend using weights and doing cardio as well.
If people want to join, what do they need to do? Stop by one of the facilities from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or call 822-2021.
Kauai Muscle and Fitness 951 Kipuni Way, Kapaa 3-3215 Kuhio Hwy., Lihue
