The Power of Self-Determination and Fitness: A Journey for the Latino Community

Sergio Rojas, FAFS, CSCS, CNS

Certified Functional Health, Fitness, & Nutrition CoachMindset - Mindfulness - Leadership - High Performance

I remember being 24 years old, living in Chicago, when I caught an image of myself in the mirror after a night of drinking with friends and eating late-night pizza. I was out of shape, 35 pounds overweight, and feeling depressed. The next afternoon, while walking to the bus stop on my way to my restaurant job, I passed by a gym advertising a 90-Day Fitness Challenge with $1,000 in prizes.

I thought about how I used to be fit and in shape. I didn't expect to win the $1,000, but I knew I could at least start getting back to a healthier version of myself. More importantly, if I committed to 90 days of healthy living and cut out alcohol and drugs, I could finally save up enough money to buy a motorcycle—a lifelong dream.

The next day, I signed up for the challenge, which came with a discounted gym membership. Three months later, I had lost 33 pounds, felt better than ever, and saved $3,000—enough to purchase a used motorcycle. That night, I took my new ride out at 2:00 AM on Lakeshore Drive, enjoying the cool breeze, the sound of the waves, and the hum of the engine.

I thought to myself, "This is what I needed to overcome my depression and anger issues." But then, a wiser voice within me whispered, "It's not the motorcycle; it's the lifestyle you've been living for the past three months that has helped your mental health."

It was a revelation. I realized I hadn’t felt this good in years. It wasn’t just about losing weight; it was about gaining clarity, discipline, and purpose. That night, I made a promise to myself to take care of the gift of my body and mind—and to help others do the same.

Over the next few weeks, I noticed how many people around me were not just physically unhealthy, but emotionally too. That realization sparked my journey to become a fitness trainer, nutritionist, and mindfulness coach. In 1997, I landed my first job as a trainer and coach while pursuing a degree in Psychology from Loyola University.

Over the past 27 years, my commitment to health and fitness has brought me to incredible places and opportunities:

• I became part of the NBC5 Fitness Team, providing weekly health and fitness segments for 11 years, including for Telemundo.

• I served as the Strength & Conditioning coach for the WNBA's Chicago Sky during their inaugural season.

• I was honored to be appointed by the White House as the Executive Director for the President's Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition.

• I opened three fitness studios in Chicago and collaborated with organizations such as the YMCA, Chicago Bulls Charities, and Chicago Public Schools.

• I helped over 700 long-haul truck drivers drastically improve their physical and emotional health.

• I was featured on the Dr. Oz Show as a semi-finalist for 'Trainer of the Year.'

• I authored the book, "Say Goodbye to Belly Fat: Six Steps to Mastering Insulin and Losing Weight for Good," available in both English and Spanish.

  
  

Through all these experiences, I also faced my own struggles, gaining and losing weight multiple times. Navigating health and fitness isn't always easy, and there is a lot of conflicting information. However, I have learned that small, consistent actions make the biggest difference.

Empowering the Latino Community Through Fitness

The Latino community is filled with passion, love, and resilience, but we also face significant health challenges. Our rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease are among the highest. However, with the right mindset and simple lifestyle changes, we can take control of our health and inspire those around us.

Here are a few simple micro-habits you can adopt to start your own health journey:

• Walk briskly for at least 30 minutes daily. If it’s too cold outside, march in place while listening to music or watching your favorite show.

• Do ten squats (or sit and stand from a chair ten times) twice a day.

• Drink at least 80 ounces of water daily. Staying hydrated is crucial for overall well-being.

• Focus on whole, natural foods. Eat more vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and legumes while minimizing fried foods, sweets, and processed foods.

• Prioritize quality sleep. Aim for at least seven hours of restful sleep each night.

  
  

I firmly believe that taking care of our bodies and minds is a spiritual and divine responsibility. Your health matters—not just for you, but for your family, friends, and community. Together, we can redefine health and well-being in our community and create a legacy of strength, vitality, and self-determination.

No matter your age or current lifestyle, it's never too late to make a change. I look forward to walking alongside you on this journey to better health, fitness, and overall well-being.

Let's embrace our potential, honor our bodies, and empower our community to thrive!