Andres Ruocco’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and service. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, he didn’t follow a straight path. But every twist led him closer to his purpose—helping others live healthier lives. Today, he’s a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, using his knowledge, discipline, and empathy to guide clients through fitness journeys.
“I’ve always believed in personal growth,” Ruocco says. “And I’ve always wanted to make a difference.”
Who Is Andres Ruocco?
Andres Ruocco grew up in Venezuela, the son of a civil engineer and an English tutor. He speaks three languages—English, Spanish, and Italian—and found his first passion for fitness early in life.
“My dad would take me on mountain walks every Sunday. That’s where it all started,” he recalls. At 12, he began training in karate and playing soccer daily with friends. But by the end of high school in 1997, he felt stuck. “I didn’t know what I wanted,” he admits. “There was this restlessness.”
So, he made a bold move.
From Civilian to Combat: A Defining Chapter in the U.S. Army
After moving to the U.S., Andres joined a community college in Tampa in 1998. But it wasn’t fulfilling. “I needed something more structured. I wanted purpose,” he says.
In 2002, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and trained as a Unit Supply Specialist. He was stationed near the Korean Demilitarized Zone before being deployed to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
“The Army gave me structure, discipline, and a mission,” Ruocco says. “Basic training, the long deployments, the pressure—it changes you. You learn what you’re really made of.”
Returning to Civilian Life and Finding a New Purpose
Coming home was tough. “After combat, sitting in a call center selling education programs felt empty,” he explains. “I needed to do something that mattered.”
That “something” came through a friend—a fellow veteran—who introduced him to the world of VA disability benefits. Ruocco began helping other veterans navigate the complex system.
“It clicked. I could use my experience to help people like me,” he says.
He joined a company specializing in medical evidence for veteran benefits. The work was personal. “Veterans need someone who understands. I could be that guy.”
Rediscovering Fitness—and Building a New Career
The pandemic brought more change. Like many, Ruocco reassessed his life. “I realized I’d lost touch with the one thing that always grounded me—fitness,” he says.
Inspired by his own personal trainer, he dove back in. He earned certifications from the National Academy of Sports Medicine in personal training and nutrition coaching. He enrolled in a Sports and Health Sciences bachelor’s program, graduating in February 2025.
Soon after, he started coaching at Ignite Fitness in Tampa, where he now works with clients online and in person.
“I’ve seen people change completely—not just physically, but mentally,” Ruocco says. “That’s what keeps me going.”
Why Veterans Make Great Fitness Coaches
Ruocco believes his military background gives him an edge. “Discipline, structure, accountability—those are built into my DNA,” he explains. “I also know what it’s like to rebuild yourself.”
His clients aren’t just looking for workouts. They’re looking for motivation, stability, and real results.
“I always start by listening,” he says. “Everyone has their own story. You have to meet them where they are.”
Leadership Lessons From the Gym and the Battlefield
Ruocco says leadership is about example, not ego. “In the Army, your team counts on you. In fitness, it’s the same. Your clients count on you to show up, to guide them, and to push them when they need it.”
He also stresses the value of continuous learning. “I read fitness journals, attend webinars, and update my plans all the time. You can’t get lazy in this field.”
His process is clear and goal-oriented. He sets long-term visions, then breaks them down into smaller, trackable milestones. “Discipline without direction doesn’t work,” he says. “You need both.”
Balancing Business and Life
Even with a packed schedule, Ruocco makes time for himself. He enjoys sightseeing, reading fitness research, and trying new healthy foods.
“A balance between personal and professional life isn’t just nice—it’s necessary,” he says. “Without it, you burn out.”
What Drives Andres Ruocco Today
What defines Andres Ruocco isn’t just his credentials—it’s his purpose.
“Helping someone hit their first push-up, or seeing a veteran get the benefits they deserve—that’s success to me,” he says.
His journey—spanning three continents, military service, call centers, and coaching—is proof that meaningful work comes when personal passion meets professional discipline.
In a world full of shortcuts and noise, Ruocco’s method is simple: show up, stay consistent, and serve others.
“Fitness saved me more than once,” he says. “Now it’s my turn to give back.”
Read more:
Andres Ruocco: From Army Veteran to Fitness Industry Leader