Meet Lilly and Giovanni from Shred415

Last week Danville Social had an opportunity to interview Shred415 owners Lilly and Giovanni De Chouden to learn more about their business and what makes them special.

How did the business get started?
Both born and raised in Puerto Rico, Lilly and Giovanni moved to the states 20 years ago and have lived in the Bay area for the past seven years. While raising their two daughters, now 18 and 20-years-old, fitness has always been an important part of Lily’s life. She is a certified personal trainer, a former Zumba instructor and also participated in fitness competitions. Her desire to help others lead healthier lives and get them excited about fitness, along with her goal to engage with the Spanish-speaking community, drove her to open the first Shred415 in California. The San Ramon location is the first of three studios Lily plans to open in the Bay area.

What inspired you to start your own business?

I immediately fell in love with Shred415’s unique concept and method of exercise. We have loved every day for the past year, engaging with this wonderful community and motivating our Shred family to improve their health, lifestyle and overall wellbeing. – Lily

What is your background and how did you develop the skills to start your business?

I have always had a passion for fitness and health in general. I saw an opportunity to combine my passion as well as build a unique, supportive community by bringing Shred to the East Bay. -Lily

What’s the one thing your business is known for, over your competitors?
Shred415 offers a 60-minute instructor-led interval training class alternating between speed and endurance drills on top-quality treadmills and strength and functional movement training on the floor, with each class designed to increase muscle and burn calories in a fun, fast-paced workout tailored to every individual’s level and goals. The result is simple: clients find classes to be enjoyable and effective, a rare combination in fitness.

Which small businesses are you inspired by?
Owning a business is hard work and rewarding at the same time. I look up to local business owners that are both family and women-owned and operated. Businesses like Enforme Activewear, Stay Polished, US Cryotherapy, CB Fit, and many others.

What is your favorite part about living/working in Danville?
The diversity of our community and how we embrace different people, cultures, backgrounds to support this amazing place we get to call home.

Tell us the most interesting and fun tidbit about your business.

When you first walk into our studio you will see the following phrase on the wall – “More than a workout”. This is one of the many reasons we fell in love with Shred415. We want to build a supportive and collaborative community that is not only about working out but is very engaged in building the community that we all live in. We enjoy supporting local schools, charities, and other worthy causes. These words on our wall, mean a lot to us and is the primary reason we decided to bring Shred415 to the Tri-Valley area. -Giovanni