By Terra Avilla
When Carina Lopez and her husband, Professor George, moved to Susanville a few years ago, they didn’t just bring their knowledge and know-how, they brought a whole lot of heart.
Together, they’ve turned their gym into more than just a place to work out- it’s become a real community – where everyone feels at home.
Sure, Professor George is the guy leading the training and keeping things running smoothly, but Carina? She’s the soul of the place. She remembers every kid’s birthday, every member’s name, and if you’ve ever spotted that calm “mom” figure sitting quietly in the back with a warm smile or a kind word, that’s Carina.
Honestly, I’m convinced she must have a superpower for remembering faces and stories.
People often say Carina is incredibly intuitive and joyful, but to me, she’s just the kind of person who makes you feel like you belong – even if you’re the clumsiest newbie trying to figure out what the heck a “Gi” is.
She doesn’t just keep track of belt levels, bills and schedules – she ensures each kiddo at the gym gets a birthday party, a Christmas and Halloween party. She notices when someone’s been away, celebrates their wins, and somehow makes the gym feel like family.
Thanks to Carina, the gym isn’t just about getting stronger physically, it’s a place where confidence grows, friendships blossom, and everyone feels truly seen. In a world where gyms can sometimes feel intimidating or like a “no-fun zone,” Carina’s created something special here in Susanville—a place where the heart is always open.
On a personal note, Carina quickly became more than just a friendly face to me – she became a true friend.
Authentic, genuine, and as lovable as they come, she’s also the biggest fan of my kids. They call her “Aunty Rina,” and it’s no exaggeration to say June Bug has known her since she was five months old. I’ve never seen anyone light up the way Carina does when she’s with kids. June Bug always makes a beeline for Carina – for her orange juice, chips, and the best hugs in town.
And here’s the kicker: Carina is the kind of person you could call at 2 a.m., and she’d show up without a single complaint. Just last week, she got back from Hawaii, and instead of bragging about her trip, she was more worried about making sure my girls got their souvenirs.
Honestly, I’m starting to think she might be a saint disguised as a gym owner.
So yeah, Carina Lopez isn’t just the heart of the gym, she’s the heart of our little community, and I’m lucky to know her and happy she is one of the reasons I love where we live.
