Gabriele Montinaro: The Man Behind Italy’s New Wave of Fitness and Wellness
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
At just 25 years old, Gabriele Montinaro has already made his mark as a fitness entrepreneur and athletic trainer for US Lecce, a Serie A football team. With a passion for promoting physical and mental well-being, he founded the Infinity Wellness Club, a project that combines personalized fitness, nutrition, and holistic care to help people transform their lives. In this exclusive interview, Gabriele shares his journey, values, and vision for the future.
1. Gabriele, who are you, and what inspired your journey?
“I’m a 25-year-old entrepreneur and athletic trainer for US Lecce. Seven years ago, I decided to introduce a new concept of physical and mental well-being. That dream led me to found Infinity Wellness Club with my business partner, Serena Rizzato. Located in Vernole, it’s more than a fitness studio—it’s a space where people can start a new life path.”
2. What is the mission of Infinity Wellness Club?
“Our mission is to improve people’s lifestyles. We do this through personalized workout plans created by our team, which includes trainers like Roberto Montinaro and Giada De Blasi. We also provide customized nutrition programs with biologist-nutritionist Domenico Capoccia and body rehabilitation and reshaping treatments with Dr. Elisabetta Addante. Together, we offer a comprehensive approach to health and wellness.”
3. How has your education shaped your career?
“My degree in sports science played a crucial role. It allowed me to join US Lecce as an intern, eventually leading to my first contract as an athletic trainer. I owe much of my growth to Romualdo Corvino, who guided me, and my university professor, Paolo Fontò, who mentored me during my first year at Lecce. For personal training, it was my experience that made the difference. My first client was my current business partner, Serena, and that’s when I realized my passion for this work.”
4. What values do you aim to instill through your programs?
“Perseverance is key. Training consistently helps clients achieve their goals, and reaching those goals builds self-confidence. That confidence doesn’t just change how they feel physically—it transforms their lives, helping them become the best version of themselves.”
5. What has been your experience with US Lecce?
“I joined US Lecce in 2018, and it was a transformative experience. Being around seasoned professionals helped me grow personally and professionally. My biggest challenge was starting at just 19 years old, with no experience, in a world of experts. I had to step up quickly and assert myself—and thankfully, it worked out.”
6. What sets your training programs apart?
“I don’t claim my programs are better than others. What makes them special is the passion and dedication I bring to my work. That’s why people trust me.”
7. What have been the most significant milestones in your career?
“Two dates stand out: October 17, 2023, when we officially launched Infinity Wellness Club, and January 28, 2024, when we opened our first location. These moments represent the realization of a dream.”
8. How do you balance personal training with athletic training?
“It’s challenging because both require immense physical and mental energy and occupy most of my day. But when you have clear goals, you always find the strength to pursue them.”
9. What’s the biggest mistake people make when starting their fitness journey?
“Expecting results too quickly. Transforming your body takes patience and consistency.”
10. How important is personalization in training?
“It’s essential. You need to understand the individual’s goals and current situation, then tailor the program to meet their needs. Personalization not only keeps clients engaged but also makes training a mentally refreshing break from their busy lives.”
11. What are your goals for the future?
“I want Infinity Wellness Club to become a nationally recognized brand. My goal is to introduce a new idea of well-being that combines fitness, nutrition, and body reshaping technologies to help people prioritize their health and achieve their goals.”
12. What advice would you give to those turning their passion into a career?
“‘Great sailors have always known how to use the storm because storms inflate the sails. After the storm, the sun awaits.’ My advice? Never abandon your dreams, even when the going gets tough. Be resilient and persistent—if you truly want something, you can achieve it.”
13. How does athletic training differ from personal training?
“Athletic training follows a structured path based on the sport, with consistent guidelines to improve performance. Personal training, however, is more variable and must be adapted to each individual’s goals, physical condition, and preferences.”
14. What keeps you motivated?
“My strength comes from the people around me—those who support and believe in me. But above all, it’s the trust my clients place in me. Without them, Infinity Wellness Club wouldn’t exist, and I wouldn’t be here giving this interview.”
15. What’s your message to your followers?
“Always strive to improve yourself, even when you lack motivation. Do it for self-love and for the people you care about. A healthier lifestyle means a better quality of life, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones and the things you love.”
Gabriele Montinaro’s journey is a powerful example of passion, perseverance, and the transformative power of fitness. From his early days as a 19-year-old intern at US Lecce to founding Infinity Wellness Club, Gabriele continues to inspire others to embrace a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle. With his dedication and vision, there’s no doubt that his influence will only grow in the years to come.
