We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Apryl Ortega a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Apryl, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
I get my resilience from my parents. My dad immigrated from Mexico to the U.S. to build a better life for his family, and my mom learned responsibility early—balancing school while helping her dad run his business. By the time they were raising me and my brothers, that same strength showed in how they handled every challenge. I didn’t see their struggles firsthand, but I felt their resilience in how they lived. They taught me that true strength isn’t just surviving—it’s growing through whatever comes your way.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a personal trainer and strength coach who helps people rebuild their bodies and confidence through movement, mindset, and sustainable habits — in-person and online. My journey into this work comes from my own experience of rebuilding and wanting to create a space where others can do the same without judgment.
I focus on functional strength, mobility, and lifestyle alignment, helping clients not just look stronger, but feel stronger and more capable in everyday life. I work with clients of all ages and backgrounds, from those recovering from injuries to busy professionals looking to regain balance and confidence.
What I love most about my work is that it doesn’t just impact the person I’m training — it ripples out to their loved ones, creating healthier, more empowered households. Seeing that effect is touching and sometimes almost unbelievable. It reminds me that prioritizing yourself matters, because you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Right now, I’m expanding my programs to help even more people rebuild strength from anywhere. My mission is simple: to help clients become stronger, more confident versions of themselves — not just in the gym, but in every part of life.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, the three qualities that have had the biggest impact on my journey are consistency, time management, and optimism. Consistency builds momentum — it’s what turns effort into results. Time management helps you stay focused and balanced, especially when you’re juggling multiple responsibilities. And optimism keeps you grounded through the highs and lows; it’s what reminds you that the work you’re putting in today will pay off tomorrow.
My advice for anyone early in their journey is to find a schedule you can actually stay consistent with — one that supports your goals without burning you out. Keep learning, stay curious, and take care of yourself along the way. Growth takes time, but if you stay steady and believe in the process, the results will come.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
A core mission of mine is to build a stronger sense of community—not just where people feel they belong, but where that connection extends beyond the gym. I want someone across town to feel part of what we’re creating simply by walking into their local coffee shop or community space that shares the same values. My goal is to make wellness something that feels accessible, inclusive, and woven into everyday life.
I’m always open to collaborating with people and businesses who share that vision. Whether it’s hosting a group workout or stretch session as part of a community or corporate event, partnering with physical therapists who want a trusted referral for post-rehab clients, supporting youth programs focused on building lifelong healthy habits, or teaming up with brands that value wellness and movement—I’m here for it.
My goal is to help more people experience what’s possible when movement and mindset meet consistency. The best way to connect right now is by email ([email protected]) or on Instagram (@built_by_apryl, handle may update soon). I’d love to hear from anyone who’s passionate about creating stronger, healthier communities together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://san-diego.selfmadetrainingfacility.com/personal-trainer/apryl-ortega/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/built_by_apryl/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apryl.ortega.37/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/apryl-ortega-7681bb356/
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aprylortega
Image Credits
Adam Russell
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