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Inspiring Conversations with Chris Tejeda of Chris Gets U Fit

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Tejeda.

Hi Chris, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Fitness has been central to my life since I first stepped into a weight room in middle school. As a high school powerlifter, I qualified for state competitions and discovered a passion for strength training that shaped my career. Early on, I had the privilege of completing a practicum at the University of Texas, learning under legendary coaches Jeff “Mad Dog” Madden and Donnie Mabe, and an internship at Train for the Game, where I became familiar with functional movement and three-dimensional training.

From there, I gained valuable experience working with a wide variety of clients at 24 Hour Fitness, Orange Theory Fitness, and Austin Simply Fit. Along the way, I rose to management, coached one-on-one and group sessions, and learned the ins and outs of gym operations.

Now, as the owner of my own fitness business, I combine years of experience with a constant drive to keep learning. I’m committed to staying on top of the latest research and training techniques so I can deliver effective, science-backed results for my clients. Fitness is always evolving, and so am I—because when I grow, my clients do too.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road hasn’t been smooth, and it still isn’t. I’ve been on my own for almost 10 years now, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that there’s no finish line. Things will always come up. You just get more equipped to handle them.

When I first started, fear was my biggest obstacle. Fear of stepping out of my comfort zone, fear of failing. I had people in my corner encouraging me to go for it, but it still took time to build the confidence to actually do it. I didn’t have a lot of money saved, just a small line of credit, loose change in a Roth IRA, and the willingness to bet on myself. Most of that money went to just getting the space functional; demo work, first and last month’s rent, and simple equipment.

I quickly realized running a business wasn’t just about training clients. It was LLCs, insurance, taxes, software, cash flow, website management, all of that. Every one of those came with a price tag and a learning curve.

Of course, like many small business owners, COVID brought its own challenges. Shutdowns and uncertainty, pivoting to survive.

Beyond that, one of the hardest lessons I’ve had to learn is that I can’t please everyone. I’m a people person by nature and I want everyone to have a great experience, to feel better after working with me. But I’ve learned that you can’t save everyone. You give your best, but some people just won’t be ready or they’ll move on. That part stings sometimes, and it can be draining.

Now, years later, I’m in a new location, and while I’m grateful, the challenges haven’t gone away, they’ve just changed. HVAC issues, plumbing problems, rising rent, the cost of managing and maintaining a website… it all adds up.
There have been stretches where money wasn’t coming in, and I had to pick up side gigs like dog walking, working third shift at FedEx, even serving tables at a comedy club. And while those jobs weren’t glamorous, they grounded me. They reminded me how much I love what I do and how much harder I need to fight to protect and build it.

At the end of the day, I’m still in it. Still learning and still evolving.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Chris Gets U Fit, we’re not chasing perfection, we’re building progress. This isn’t your typical fitness space. I created it to be a place where people feel seen, supported, and challenged in the right ways. Whether you’re are recovering from an injury, juggling a demanding life, or just trying to get back to feeling like yourself again. To know that I’ve been there, shit, I am there, and I get it.

What sets Chris Gets U Fit apart is that I don’t follow a one-size-fits-all approach. I specialize in personal training, small group classes, contrast therapy (cold plunge + sauna), and a no-ego atmosphere that meets you where you are. It’s about real-world fitness—being stronger, more mobile, more confident, and more capable in your everyday life.

I focus on smart, functional training that improves your body and your mindset.

What I’m most proud of is the brand’s honesty. I’m not a flawless example of fitness—I’ve had setbacks, injuries, doubts. But that’s exactly why this space works: it’s built with real people in mind. I want your readers to know that no matter where you’re starting, you’re welcome here. AND NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO YOU DO IT WITH CONFIDENCE!!

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
There are several ways people can work with me, collaborate, or support what I’m building through Chris Gets U Fit. You can train with me directly through personal training or join one of my small group sessions. I also offer contrast therapy—cold plunge and sauna sessions—for those looking to prioritize recovery and mental clarity.

if you’re a fellow trainer, brand, creator, or someone passionate about strength, movement and wellness, I’m always open to collaborations that align with my mission.

Supporting me can be as simple as spreading the word—sharing what we’re doing, tagging me online, leaving a review, or bringing a friend to class. Every little bit helps us grow the community.

You can connect with me on Instagram @chrisgetsufit, on Facebook at Chris Gets U Fit, or through my website at www.chrisgetsufit.com. If you’re in Austin, you can visit the studio at 10603 Metric Boulevard, Suite 106, Austin, TX 78758.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Brittany Photography

Kyle and Jenna Albright
Carolin Calderon
Kila
Stacy League
Chris Tejeda

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