Looking for a gym that actually meets you where you are? We sit down with Shay Shulman of HIIT It Fitness, a boutique small group training studio in Mission Viejo, to explore how smart strength, thoughtful conditioning, and a welcoming community help everyday people move better and feel confident. From the first hello, Coach Shay makes it clear: intensity is personal, not punitive, and the goal is lasting health, not quick fixes.

We unpack the most stubborn myths in fitness, including the fear that lifting makes women bulky. Coach Shay explains how building muscle boosts metabolism, supports bone density, improves posture, and protects long-term independence. She shares how HIIT can be scaled for beginners and seasoned athletes alike by adjusting load, tempo, range, and work-to-rest ratios—so you leave energized, not wrecked. You’ll hear why form-first coaching in small groups delivers both motivation and individual attention, and how structured programming turns good intentions into steady progress.

Community sits at the center of this story. Most new members arrive through referrals because people feel seen, supported, and challenged at the right level. Coach Shay talks about the studio’s culture—celebrating small wins, trying new workouts, and joining local races and events—and how her own self-care practices keep coaching fresh and empathetic. We close with practical ways to start: try a free class, check the studio’s Google reviews for real testimonials, and remember that you don’t need to be fit to begin; you begin to get fit.

If you’re in or near Mission Viejo and want strength training that respects your body and time, this conversation is your nudge. Subscribe for more neighbor-led stories, share this with a friend who needs a confidence boost, and leave a review to help others find the show.