Candice A. Santos: Health and Wellness is more than just a fitness brand – it is a movement dedicated to empowering women through structured exercise, holistic well-being and a supportive community. With a gym space tailored exclusively for women, it offers both small group and one-on-one sessions designed to help clients build strength, confidence and healthier habits in an environment that feels safe and comfortable. Located at 23 Coblentz Avenue in St. Ann’s, the studio is not just a place to work out but a space where women can connect, share their journeys and feel supported as they pursue their health and fitness goals.
Health has always been a cornerstone of Candice’s life. Fitness became an anchor, particularly during the unpredictable challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, helping her maintain resilience both mentally and physically. That period reinforced just how essential a balanced approach to well-being is, encompassing not only exercise but also nutrition and mental health. Recognising the profound impact of this holistic approach, she felt compelled to share her passion, educating and empowering other women to take charge of their lives and prioritise their own well-being. What started as a personal journey soon became a mission: to create a space where women could experience fitness in a way that nurtured their entire being.
When she first began offering fitness sessions, it was a part-time endeavour, something she did alongside other commitments. However, as more women sought out her guidance and expressed their appreciation for the environment she had created, she realised its potential to evolve into something greater. The decision to turn it into a full-time business was not taken lightly. As any entrepreneur knows, building a brand from the ground up requires an immense investment of time, energy and focus. While working closer to home has provided her with a better work-life balance, the responsibilities of being a solopreneur come with their own set of challenges. Wearing multiple hats – from trainer to administrator to marketer – has made it clear that building a business demands dedication. Yet, every challenge has been met with determination, driven by the vision of transforming the gym into a holistic hub for health and wellness.
The inspiration for this business was born from years spent in gym environments that never quite felt right. There was always something missing – an element of comfort, a space where women could simply be themselves without feeling watched or judged. For many women, the traditional gym setting can feel intimidating or unwelcoming. This led to the creation of a space that prioritises privacy, comfort and an efficient, effective workout experience. Women already juggle so much in their daily lives and they deserve a place where they can focus on their well-being in a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere. The approach taken at Candice A. Santos: Health and Wellness is holistic, acknowledging that true strength is not just about physical fitness but also about mental and emotional well-being.
One of the biggest milestones on this journey has been the expansion into a larger space. When the business first started, sessions were held in Candice’s living room during the height of Covid, with nothing more than a pair of adjustable weights and an exercise ball. As demand grew, she moved into a small space no bigger than a hotel room. But as more women joined, it became clear that the limitations of space and scheduling were no longer sustainable. After months of searching for the right location, the perfect spot was found – a space that met both functional and aesthetic needs. A month of renovations followed, along with investments in new equipment, including a multi-function machine that allowed for greater variety in training. Beyond the visible growth of the business, the most rewarding part of this journey has been witnessing the progress of the women who started at the very beginning. Seeing them develop strength, confidence and a sense of empowerment makes every obstacle in building this brand worth it.
Being an entrepreneur is far from easy, especially in an industry where women often have to work harder to prove themselves. There are days of immense motivation and inspiration, but there are also moments of doubt and imposter syndrome. The key to overcoming these challenges lies in continuous self-investment, both personally and professionally. Trusting oneself, believing in one’s abilities and seeking support from like-minded individuals make all the difference. There is power in sharing challenges with others who have walked similar paths and there is strength in vulnerability. Asking for help and admitting struggles do not equate to weakness – instead, they are signs of resilience and growth.
For anyone embarking on their own entrepreneurial journey, the best advice is to trust intuition and follow one’s heart. Believing in oneself is crucial, as is maintaining focus and perseverance. Hard work, dedication, and fostering meaningful relationships – especially the relationship with oneself – are essential to success. Understanding one’s worth and setting firm boundaries, particularly when it comes to time and respect, are vital. Patience is key, as growth does not happen overnight, but with consistency, progress is inevitable.
A brand is far more than an exchange of goods or services – it is an extension of the person behind it, a reflection of values, identity and purpose. A strong brand builds trust and fosters genuine connections with customers who resonate with its mission. Candice has been intentional about ensuring her brand remains authentic to who she is. As a fitness coach, she does not fit the mould of the stereotypical tough, drill-sergeant-like trainer. Instead, she embraces a softer, more nurturing approach, and that is entirely by design. Women do not need to choose between strength and softness – they can be fearless, strong, resilient and driven while also being compassionate and nurturing. Encouraging women to embrace their feminine energy and reject the notion that they must always be in ‘hustle mode’ is central to her philosophy.
The local business landscape has undergone a shift in the post-Covid era. More people are recognising that their passions and skills can evolve into viable brands, much like the entrepreneurial culture seen in larger markets. There is a growing realization that not everything needs to come from a large corporation; individuals and small businesses have the power to create high-quality, meaningful offerings. This shift has sparked growth within the local brand community and with the right opportunities, there is potential for expansion into international markets. Trinidad and Tobago has long been associated with the energy sector, but there is so much more to offer. This is an exciting time for local entrepreneurs to step into new industries and showcase their talents on a broader stage.
As part of her business strategy, Candice hosts pop-up classes once or twice a month to provide an alternative for those unable to commit to a long-term membership. These weekend sessions are designed to be high-energy and intense, offering participants a dynamic and engaging workout experience. The goal is to make fitness more accessible while also creating a unique, community-driven experience. Additionally, collaborations with other professionals play a key role in providing a well-rounded approach to health and wellness. By working with experts in fields such as mental health, mobility and flexibility, and nutrition, Candice ensures that her clients receive a truly holistic experience.
Candice A. Santos: Health and Wellness is more than a gym – it is a space where women can find strength in every sense of the word. Whether through fitness, nutrition, or mental well-being, the mission remains the same: to empower, uplift, and inspire women to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. The journey is ongoing, with new goals, new challenges and new milestones ahead. But through it all, the vision remains clear – to build a brand that is not just about fitness but about transformation, empowerment, and community.
