Welcome to GBF Fitness: Your Gym Best Friend In Sarasota!
Hey there, and welcome to GBF Fitness—short for Gym Best Friend! I’m Steve, a 38-year-old certified personal trainer, nutrition specialist, and (most importantly) your cheerleader in and out of the gym. I’ve built this space because I know firsthand how scary stepping into a fitness journey can feel—especially if you’re worried about judgment or unsure where to start. My mission is to make fitness fun and accessible for the gay community (and all friendly folks!) in Sarasota and beyond.
My Story & Why I’m Here
A little over two years ago, I was 80 pounds heavier, struggling with body dysmorphia, and completely intimidated by the idea of working out in public. On top of that, I’d just begun my sobriety journey and found myself swapping alcohol for sugary treats—leading to even more weight gain. The turning point came when I met a friend who became not just my personal trainer, but my “gym best friend.” With their guidance, I discovered that exercise doesn’t have to be terrifying or joyless—it can be empowering, playful, and life-changing.
I’ve since lost those 80 pounds and found a passion for helping people—especially queer men who’ve felt unsafe or unwelcome in traditional gym spaces—build healthier, happier lives. I’m here to guide you through the process, cheer you on, and provide the knowledge and accountability you need.
What You Can Expect at GBF
1. Authentic, Inclusive Vibes
At GBF Fitness, everyone is welcome—no bro culture, no judgment. I’m openly gay myself, and I’m committed to creating a space where you feel safe and motivated to be your best self. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned gym-goer looking for something fresh, this blog is for you.
2. Fitness & Nutrition Tips
You’ll find posts about effective workouts, nutrition hacks, and how to fit healthy habits into your busy life. From resistance training basics to macro-friendly recipe ideas, I’ll be sharing practical advice you can actually use (without all the confusion or overwhelm).
3. Mindset & Motivation
Losing weight and building strength aren’t just physical processes. They’re deeply tied to how you see yourself and the story you tell yourself every day. I’ll delve into topics like beating gym anxiety, overcoming negative self-talk, and celebrating small wins—even if it’s your first time trying a push-up.
4. Community & Events
I may be based in Sarasota, but I’m excited to connect with a broader community. Expect updates on local events, group workouts, or meet-ups—like playing kickball with SRQ Kickball. Fitness should be fun and social, right?
5. Behind-the-Scenes
Ever wonder what goes into designing a custom workout plan or brainstorming new fitness challenges? I’ll give you an inside look at how I approach personal training, from progress tracking to accountability tools.
Moving Forward
Thank you for stopping by my corner of the internet—whether you found me through word of mouth, a curious Google search, or your local LGBTQ+ circles. If any part of my story resonates with you, I’d love for you to stick around and explore. And if you decide you’re ready to make a change—no matter how big or small—I’m here with open arms, a friendly smile, and plenty of workout ideas to share.
Feel free to drop a comment below or reach out via my contact page if you have any questions or just want to say hi. I’m all about building a supportive community, one rep (and one friendly convo) at a time.
Let’s have some fun and get stronger together—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Welcome again to GBF Fitness, and stay tuned for more posts soon!
