Meet Carmalita Ruffin | Owner & Co-Founder of Live Like You Give A Fit

My brother and I started Live Like You Give a Fit when we noticed the absence of genuine care for client health when it comes to fitness. Health and Wellness is a fad term these days, and you have trainers and coaches alike who are truly taking advantage of the clients by ignoring end to end solutioning when it comes to their fitness/wellness goals. Diet and exercise are critical pieces, but they are not the only ones. A clients mindset, their mental health, day to day life challenges, obstacles, etc. all of these things play a role into a clients ability to be successful. Some clients need all components, and some clients need only a few, but no matter what we take the time to understand what each client needs a build a holistic strategy that will lead them to success.

I have been an avid lover of all things fitness since I can remember. But as I got older, I realized that it is way harder to keep active. Thats when I started coaching. While coaching, I would hear stories from class members of their day to day struggles with fitness, trying to stay healthy, and life itself. I begin to quickly understand that clients needed help beyond the gym. So that’s when Live Like You Give a Fit was born. We not only provide programming and nutritional guidance, but provide an environment that also supports emotional and mental needs.

First day of landing when friends and family come to Houston, the first place we must go to is Lupe Tortilla. Hands down the best fresh tortillas and margaritas. Yes, there are other “really good spots” but Lupe stands the test of time. A great “welcome to texas” beginning. Definitely on the itinerary list would, enjoying some of the hidden trails in Memorial and Bayou Parks., especially the Biking trails. Definitely have to catch good shopping in Post Oak Village and Galleria. But go to the Galleria during the week, way less crowded. For first timers definitely have to see Kemah Boardwalk so we could make a day out of that. Hit the salsa night at Glorias in uptown. Head downtown to the hidden garden and enjoy some delicious drinks and oysters. Im a fan of the natural science museum so I love going there. Night outs would definitely include EADO, Midtown and Downtown. For downtime, we would definitely catch a movie at IPIC or take cooking classes at Sur La Table.

I would like to thank my Husband, who has been my ultimate cheerleader. Through all the hardship, going back to the drawing board to help figure out what works, late nights, bad business decisions, all of it.. he has never given up on me and I truly truly thank him.

My brother and partner, for a couple of years now we have been talking about starting our own business and keeping our clients as priority and doing things the right way! He has never let life keep us from moving forward. I truly thank him.

Last but definitely not least, to my power circle. I have circle of strong entrepreneurial women who have POURED INTO ME!! Late night conversations, shoulder to lean and cry on, advice givers and all out encourages. I thank God for them.