Member Spotlight: Stephanie Bozella & Andrea Vargas

When people ask us what we love most about owning and running Ola Kai, Jimmy and I always say the same thing—the community! There’s nothing better than watching members come in not knowing anyone and quickly build friendships that go beyond the gym. With so much of life happening online, having a space to connect face-to-face is more valuable than ever.

Steph and Andrea are a wonderful example of this! They met as strangers, partnered up in class, and quickly discovered how much they had in common. Both shared how naturally they could be themselves around each other and how they bonded over their love of books, food, and, of course, exercise.

We love seeing their smiling faces every week and the energy they both bring into the room. Read more about them below!

Stephanine Bozella

What brought you to Ola Kai? 

I moved to Brigantine in 2020 and was looking for ways to connect with like-minded people on the island. As soon as I heard that a class-based gym was opening, I knew I was signing up! I was constantly checking Ola Kai's social media, patiently waiting for an opening date. (*We specifically remember Steph being one of our first followers!*)

What is your favorite thing about Brigantine?

The people, without a doubt. We have such a tight knit community here and I feel so grateful to be a part of it. Being able to walk to the ocean is pretty cool, too. 

How do you feel like the type of training you do at Ola Kai helps you in your  personal life?

I am a healthier, stronger version of myself thanks to Ola Kai. Coming to the gym also allowed me to create new friendships with some amazing people!

What physical benefits are you seeing (sleep, work, eating, mental, etc).

I sleep like a baby after Stacey's Thursday night Yoga class, and the weekend Pilates and Strength & Conditioning classes get me energized for the day. 

What are some of the biggest benefits you have felt since you started at Ola Kai?

The biggest benefit I've gained is the community. I love coming to class, seeing all of my workout buddies and laughing along the way.

What class(es) do you enjoy the most?

It's hard to choose, because I think it is so important to get a mixture of all the class types. Right now, I'm really enjoying strengthening my core in Marlene's Pilates class. 

What’s one thing you’ve achieved since becoming a member? 

I will never forget the first time I pushed myself into Wheel pose in Stacey's Yoga class. I've been practicing yoga for a few years, but never felt confident enough to even attempt Wheel.  The mixture of yoga, pilates and strength training helped me get there. 

What is one fitness goal you have this year?  

I'd really like to improve my upper body strength. I currently can do one and a half pull-ups. By December, I'd like to be able to do five consecutive pull-ups!

What are some of your favorite things to do on the island?

I love riding my bike and reading books on the jetty. And also treating myself to sweet treats from Sunday Teahouse or Jersey Cow after a tough workout!

Andrea Vargas

What brought you to Ola Kai?

I used to work out on my own, but I thought it would be fun to join a class—and let me tell you, working out in a class is way more fun than working out alone!

What is your favorite thing about Brigantine?

The beach and the farmers market, hands down!

How do you feel the type of training you do at Ola Kai helps you in your personal life?

My job requires me to lift very heavy boxes—sometimes 50lbs or more—and now I can confidently lift them at work without needing any help. Woohoo! Also, working on my core in Pilates, along with lifting weights in strength classes, has significantly improved my overall stability and strength :)

What are some of the biggest benefits you’ve felt since you started at Ola Kai?

I feel so much more capable—whether it’s in workouts, at work, or just going about my day. In class, I’m always motivated to push myself a little more, whether it’s lifting a little heavier or pushing through that last rep. When I work out alone, it’s hard to have that same motivation, but working with great instructors and awesome people helps so much! That feeling of progress carries over into every part of my life, and I love it!I also love being a part of a fitness community—it’s been a huge help, especially through the cold winter months, keeping me motivated and making training more fun!

What class(es) do you enjoy the most?

Pilates with Marlene and Christina’s strength classes!

What’s one thing you’ve achieved since becoming a member?

I’ve stayed way more consistent with my workouts! Being part of a class keeps me motivated, and I actually look forward to working out now.

What is one fitness goal you have this year?

Getting a six-pack lol!! And finishing my Pilates certification!

What are some of your favorite things to do on the island?

Getting bubble tea with Stephanie, watching the sunset with Mike (her fiancé), and bike riding.