We had the good fortune of connecting with Eric Garcia and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Eric, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
The most important lesson I’ve learned from owning and running a business, and having a professional boxing career is not allowing anything to get behind me. Both literally and figuratively. Once you let your objectives get behind you, you can lose control of the fight. I apply this to all aspects of my life both in and out of the ring. In addition I have to stress the importance of showing up and working hard. Without effort there is no final result or success.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I own and operate a Boxing Gym in Upland California. I started boxing at 10 yrs old, and have been involved in this great sport for almost 24 years. I’ve been extremely fortunate to have been trained by some great trainers and some not so great trainers, having both exemplary and mediocre experiences. All the exposure and these hard lessons have allowed me to use them to help my fighters make the best decisions for their careers. My own career was brief at 5-1, but I am proud that my experience now will help others reach their own success. Nothing is ever easy, even if it’s given to you. I’ve learned that success centers around hard work and maintaining your craft. If you want it you have to get up and go after it. The good energy you put out in pursuit of your happiness and prosperity is the energy you’ll get back in return. If there is anything I’d want the world to know about me is that I’m genuine. I have zero ego when it comes to teaching my people. I want all my people to succeed even if it isn’t with me.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Visiting Rancho Cucamonga, the first stop has to be for breakfast at Zeke’s Eatin Place in Ontario. Next, we would get some shopping in at the local outdoor mall, Victoria Gardens. For lunch, Mi Ranchito in Upland is the best place to go for authentic Mexican food. I have been going there for years. Just a short way down the road is The Shop, where where we can get a workout in. Downtown Claremont is one of my favorite dinner spots, so The Back Abby or Eureka would be our next place to go, as well as checking out the local bars. Being so close to the coast, Huntington or Newport would be a destination for the visit. My family and I often hike through Crystal Cove or just spend a day to relax. I also like to spend time in Pasadena, where there are more restaurants and bars nearby. If the visit calls for an LA trip, we’re stopping at Olvera Street for tacos, catching a Dodger game if possible, then ending the week with a trip to downtown Riverside.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
To the all those who acted as roadblocks and tried to delay my success in boxing and life. Because of them I was forced to take a different path. Which turned out beneficial. And shout out to the amazing support system I’ve had all along. My 2 amazing sons, all my family, my wonderful clients at the shop, my fighters, and all those who continue to stick beside me. Let’s get it!

Instagram: @Edeek_garseeya @theshopfit

Yelp: The shop. Strength and Fitness

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