Meet: Stacey DeMartini, Owner of You vs You Training

In bustling South Boston, You Vs You Training stands out as the ultimate spot for personal fitness and community engagement. At the heart of this unique training studio is Stacey DeMartini, the Owner and Founder, who has cultivated a space where personal growth and healthy lifestyles thrive. Our team had the chance to talk with Stacey about her time in Southie, opening the studio, and her favorite things about the neighborhood.

Having spent a decade as a personal trainer at various gyms, Stacey dreamed of opening her own communal freelance training studio. She wanted a membership-free space where clients could work on their goals with top-tier personal trainers. And so, You Vs You Training was born in July 2021. “Our mission is to accommodate all ages and fitness levels to help promote healthy habits and lifestyles,” Stacey explained. Her mission is reflected in the inclusive and supportive environment she has created, welcoming everyone from fitness novices to seasoned athletes.

The name You Vs You represents the studio’s powerful philosophy. “You Vs You encourages the lifestyle that you are your biggest competition,” Stacey said. This mantra challenges individuals to overcome their own obstacles and continuously strive for self-improvement. “At the end of the day, it’s always You Vs You,” Stacey shared.

Stacey’s role as an Owner is hands-on and multifaceted. “Most of my days start at 6 am and end at 8 pm. I see around 5-10 clients in a day, and during my breaks, I work out and take care of all the behind-the-scenes tasks to keep the business running smoothly,” she described. Despite the long hours, Stacey’s passion for her work shines through, reflecting her commitment to her clients and her studio.

Stacey chose Southie as the home for her studio due to the neighborhood’s welcoming community and the strong support among local small businesses. “I found that to be a vital asset to my business model of providing exercise resources to the community,” she said. The diverse mix of locals and newcomers in Southie creates a vibrant, supportive environment perfect for fostering a sense of community and mutual growth. Being a part of this community is a pillar of Stacey’s approach. You Vs You Training has sponsored nonprofits, including Good Sports, which promotes youth sports and physical activity. Stacey is eager to deepen these connections through collaborations with other small businesses and participation in events like the Southie Street Fair.

Stacey sees a bright future for South Boston. “It’s amazing to see all the transformations it has gone through. It’s only going to flourish and succeed as a neighborhood, and I can’t wait to experience it,” she predicted. Learn more about Stacey in our video interview below and check out You Vs You Training at 240 West 2nd Street.