"My name is Giselle Borrás-Figueroa, and I've been a member of The Edge Fitness Clubs in Bristol, CT since early 2024. I switched from Planet Fitness because I’ve long dreamed of becoming a competitive bodybuilder, and I knew I needed more specialized equipment to push my limits.
When I first joined Edge, I didn’t expect much beyond the usual sales pitch—then I met John. Instead of the standard script, he asked about my real goals. I confessed my dream of competing but also shared my fears—I felt too old, didn’t think I had the time, and, honestly, I was afraid of failure. John listened, looked me in the eyes, and said, 'Yes, you will.' He set me up with Teresa Layton, a professional IFBB Bikini competitor, and from there, everything changed.
Teresa was everything I needed in a trainer— genuine, kind, supportive, and motivating. With a competition date set for September 7, 2024, we hit the ground running, and I saw my body transform in ways I never imagined. She pushed me to limits that I didn't know I could reach. Other members even started to notice and comment on my progress, which moved me to tears.
But just weeks before my competition, Teresa had to leave unexpectedly due to unforeseen circumstances. I was devastated, feeling like my dream was slipping away. That’s when Ashlyn Desmond stepped in. Ashlyn had always been a source of encouragement, and without hesitation, she took over my training. She even volunteered to attend my competition in Teresa's place, helping me every step of the way—from checking in on my workouts to supporting me backstage.
On competition day, Ashlyn stayed by my side, constantly updating Teresa, making sure I was focused, and boosting my confidence. I walked onto that stage as a 49-year-old woman, a grandmother of two, feeling more empowered than ever before. I was placed in a pro qualifying round with seasoned competitors and took home third place in my first-ever bodybuilding competition!
This victory wasn’t just mine—it was thanks to John, Teresa, Ashlyn, and every single person at The Edge who knew my face and knew what I was trying to accomplish and continued to cheer me on. I’m beyond grateful for the incredible community at Edge Fitness, which has become like a second home to me. I have decided that body building and competing is now a yearly goal of mine as I aim to go pro and be an Edge Fitness Athlete through it all. Thank you to the amazing team that truly cares about their clients—you’ve gained a forever member in me!"
-Giselle, Bristol Edge member