FITNESS By Design

Business Details

22 Years

experience

Your Premier Fitness Studio in Des Moines

As the owner of FITNESS By Design, I am proud to lead a team dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through personalized fitness solutions. Established in 2004, our studio offers private training, semi-private training, group fitness classes, BEMER therapy, and massage services designed to foster personal growth and accountability. Our approach emphasizes functional training tools like kettlebells, resistance bands, and suspension systems to improve real-world physical capabilities. With a focus on building strong client relationships, we provide ongoing support to address individual challenges and goals. Our upscale, welcoming environment empowers clients to push beyond their comfort zones while maintaining a positive atmosphere.

Recognized for excellence in fitness instruction, we combine certified expertise with innovative techniques to deliver measurable results. From marathon preparation to daily activity enhancement, our programs cater to diverse fitness levels and aspirations. We prioritize client satisfaction through tailored routines, professional guidance, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Located in Des Moines, our studio serves as a community hub for health-conscious individuals seeking transformative fitness experiences. Thank you for allowing us to guide you on your journey to better health.

Services

Private Training Group Fitness BEMER Therapy Massage Services Semi-Private Training

Details

Year established: 2004

Highlights and features

We offer 30+ years of combined experience in functional fitness training
Our certified trainers provide personalized attention in small-group settings
We utilize patented BEMER technology for enhanced circulation and recovery
Our proven programs have helped clients qualify for the Boston Marathon
We maintain strict 8:1 client-to-trainer ratios for optimal supervision

Associations and certifications

American Council on Exercise (ACE)
International Dance Exercise Association (IDEA)

What people say

Rigorous yet effective classes Attentive certified trainers Noticeable strength gains Marathon time improvements Welcoming environment

Website

Update Listing

Services

Private Training

Personalized fitness programs designed for individual goals with certified trainers. Sessions focus on strength development, posture correction, and functional movement patterns. Clients receive real-time feedback and progressive challenges to maximize results.

Group Fitness

Structured small-group workouts maintaining 8:1 client ratios for safety and effectiveness. Classes combine strength training, cardio elements, and functional movements. Instructors provide technique corrections and modifications for diverse fitness levels.

BEMER Therapy

Non-invasive PEMF therapy using patented technology to improve blood flow and muscle recovery. 8-minute sessions twice daily support oxygen delivery and metabolic waste removal. FDA Class II cleared device for home and studio use.

Massage Therapy

Customized massage sessions integrating Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Shiatsu techniques. Available in 30-90 minute durations to address specific muscle groups and recovery needs. Focuses on tension relief and circulation improvement.

Semi-Private Training

Duo training sessions combining personalized attention with social motivation. Programs balance individual goals with partner accountability while maintaining professional guidance and structured progression.

People

Barb Mendoza

Owner

Certified ACE trainer with 30+ years experience. Holds B.S. in Exercise Science from Iowa State University. Specializes in functional training and marathon preparation. Recognized by IDEA for fitness excellence.

Ted Kunkle

Massage Therapist

Licensed Massage Therapist since 1998. Graduated valedictorian from Heartwood Institute. Specializes in Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Shiatsu techniques. Awarded Best Massage Therapist in Des Moines in 2007.

Questions

What fitness services do you offer?

We provide private training, group fitness classes, BEMER therapy, and massage services tailored to individual goals and fitness levels.

Are classes suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, our programs accommodate beginners to advanced athletes with scalable exercises and personalized modifications.

What makes your training approach unique?

We combine functional training tools with BEMER technology and maintain small class sizes for individualized attention.

Do you offer marathon training support?

Yes, our clients have successfully trained for and completed marathons with our strength and endurance programs.

What are your cancellation policies?

Please contact us directly for policy details regarding class cancellations and rescheduling options.

Reviews (5)

Write a Review

Heather Wood

Jan 27, 2022 Report

I love everything about Fitness by Design. I am so thankful I found them- my personal training sessions are filled with variey and tons of encouragement. I went from a person who never works out to now looking forward to my personal training sessions.

Ellen Taylor

Dec 15, 2021 Report

Thanks to my weekly participation in strength, pilates, and yin yoga classes over these past 5 years at FBD, my fitness level now in my mid-70s is comparable to my 40s! The key to that for me is small classes with instructors who connect with me, and help me make adjustments to the routine as needed -- a great second family! :)

Ginny Satterstrom

Dec 05, 2021 Report

I have been taking classes at Fitness By Design for the past four years. The staff is so professional and helpful and the array of classes and personal training that is available is amazing! The facilities and equipment are top notch and I enjoy the smaller classes and personal attention everyone receives. The owner is incredibly helpful and knowledgeable in guiding people to meet their personal fitness goals. I highly recommend!

Marilyn Romine

Nov 05, 2021 Report

Reformer Pilates is for everyone! You can modify it to your abilities easily. Jill does a wonderful job of working with us, despite some aches and pains as we age.

Becky Wawak

Feb 12, 2021 Report

Very professional, supportive and caring team! Fitness By Design offers a variety of classes including Pilates, Yoga, and Strength training. I very much enjoy all three types of classes and like the small groups and/or online options. Whether you want to focus on flexibility, balance, strength or overall general well being, Barb and her team have a work out for you! Great coaches, great clients! I feel very welcome and comfortable here!