Rising Stars: Meet Anthony Garcia of Gilbert/Scottsdale

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Garcia.

Anthony , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, growing up in the 80s and 90s—a time when the city was filled with violence, addiction, and countless distractions that could have easily pulled me down the wrong path. Like many kids in that environment, I was faced with constant challenges, but I made a choice not to let my circumstances define me.

I eventually moved to Colorado, seeking a fresh start and a better environment to build my future. That’s where my life truly began to transform. I met my wife, started my family, and discovered a new sense of purpose and drive. Becoming a husband and father gave me a reason to push harder, to break cycles, and to create opportunities not just for myself, but for those I love.

Over time, I grew into an entrepreneur, driven by the belief that hard work and vision could change everything. What started as survival turned into building something meaningful. Today, I’m proud to own and operate two very successful private training facilities in Arizona. These aren’t just gyms—they’re communities where independent trainers can thrive, where clients can grow, and where the culture of perseverance, mentorship, and family continues to live on.

My story is about more than just business. It’s about overcoming adversity, creating opportunity out of hardship, and proving that no matter where you come from, you have the power to write your own future.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. In fact, the struggles are what shaped me the most. Growing up in Los Angeles in the 80s and 90s, I was surrounded by violence, gangs, and addiction. There were moments where it felt like the odds were stacked against me, and just making it out of that environment was a victory in itself.

Even as I began to build a better life, the challenges didn’t stop. Moving to a new state meant starting over from scratch—no network, no handouts, just grit and determination. When I started my businesses, there were setbacks: financial struggles, long days with little sleep, juggling family responsibilities, and plenty of moments where it felt easier to give up than to push forward.

But every obstacle became fuel. I learned that the hardest times teach you the most about who you are and what you’re capable of. Those struggles gave me resilience, discipline, and vision. Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to build the kind of facilities I have today—places that not only help people train physically but also give them a supportive environment to grow personally and professionally.

So no, it hasn’t been smooth. But I wouldn’t trade the bumps in the road for anything. They made me who I am, and they remind me that success isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about what you overcome to get there.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
What I do is more than just running gyms—I build communities. I own and operate two private training facilities in Arizona, but these spaces are designed differently from the typical gym model. Instead of memberships and cookie-cutter programs, we specialize in giving independent trainers a home to grow their businesses and impact more lives. It’s a facility built for entrepreneurs, by an entrepreneur.

I’m known for creating an environment that pushes culture before everything. At SelfMade, it’s not just about fitness—it’s about mentorship, independence, and opportunity. Trainers here get the support, resources, and freedom to succeed on their own terms, while clients get access to some of the best coaches in the state. I’ve poured myself into making sure the culture is one of family, accountability, and excellence.

What I’m most proud of is seeing people grow inside our walls. I’ve watched trainers come in struggling to make ends meet, and within months they’ve built thriving businesses that change their lives and their families’ lives. I’ve seen clients not just transform their bodies but gain confidence, discipline, and belief in themselves. That’s the impact I care about most.

What sets me apart is that I understand both sides of the struggle. I didn’t come from privilege, and I’ve had to fight for every step forward. That’s why I relate to the trainers and clients who walk through our doors—I’ve lived the grind, and I know how important it is to have someone believe in you. My vision isn’t just to build gyms, it’s to build platforms for people to rise.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My biggest advice for anyone just starting out is this: don’t wait for the perfect time, because it doesn’t exist. Start where you are, with what you have, and trust that consistency will get you further than talent ever will. Too many people let fear or self-doubt hold them back, when the truth is, you learn the most by being in the game, not sitting on the sidelines.

When I was starting out, I thought success would come quicker—that if I worked hard enough, things would fall into place fast. What I’ve learned is that success takes patience, sacrifice, and resilience. There will be sleepless nights, failures, and times when you question yourself. But if you keep showing up, keep learning, and keep pushing, those small steps compound into something big.

I wish I knew earlier that relationships are everything. Surround yourself with the right people—mentors, peers, and even competitors who push you to grow. Your circle will shape your mindset, and your mindset will shape your results.

And finally, don’t lose sight of why you started. If your only goal is money or recognition, you’ll burn out. But if your purpose is bigger—whether it’s to change lives, provide for your family, or build something that lasts—then that purpose will carry you through the toughest times.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://gilbert.selfmadetrainingfacility.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smtfgilbert?igsh=NjIxOXJoNTcyN21j
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@selfmadearizona?si=rMnMdQLMBpwA1Zwr

Image Credits
IronGang Films LLC