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

Hi Eric, what is the most important factor behind your success?
When I reflect on the success of my two fitness creations — AQUA STAND UP® and B-BOARD® — two words come immediately to mind: consistency and passion. These have been the driving forces behind everything I do.

Consistency isn’t glamorous, but it’s powerful. It’s showing up day after day, even when things are tough. It’s refining the programs over the years, listening to feedback, improving the training, and staying committed to delivering quality every single time. Whether I’m leading a group class, certifying instructors, or introducing the brand to a new facility, I bring the same energy and dedication. That steady rhythm of effort builds trust, credibility, and lasting results.

Passion, on the other hand, is the fire that keeps everything alive. I’ve been in the fitness industry for over two decades, and what still excites me today is creating experiences that are fun, unique, and empowering for people of all ages and levels. AQUA STAND UP® was inspired by my love for paddle boarding and water-based movement, while B-BOARD® brings that same feeling of flow and balance onto land. Both programs are deeply personal — they represent not just fitness routines, but philosophies of movement, connection, and joy.

Together, passion and consistency have helped me build brands that stand out and stand strong. I truly believe that when you combine love for what you do with relentless perseverance, success becomes more than a goal — it becomes the natural result.

What should our readers know about your business?
Ok! Let’s dive a little bit deeper and understand what are AQUA STAND UP® and B-BOARD®. There are two unique fitness programs inspired by the movement, balance, and freedom of paddle boarding. AQUA STAND UP® is a water-based workout performed on tethered boards in a swimming pool, while B-BOARD® brings that same energy and challenge to land using a specially designed balance board. Both programs offer a fun and dynamic full-body workout that improves balance, strength, coordination, and core stability — all while making fitness enjoyable and accessible to all levels.

People can join the movement by taking in-person classes offered at partner facilities like YMCAs, JCCs, Life Time Clubs and Parks & Rec centers across the country or by practicing with on-demand videos at home. In Los Angeles, I’m proud to be part of Studio Brava—a cozy and professional physical therapy space where Angelenos can experience the benefits of B-BOARD® in a safe, welcoming, and beautifully designed boutique studio.
Studio Brava Physical Therapy is conveniently located at the corner of Ohio and Sepulveda.

What truly sets me apart is my dedication to providing a professional, turn-key solution — not just a fitness concept. I offer instructor training, licensing, program updates, class formats, and everything a facility needs to run a successful program. It’s a full package designed to empower both instructors and participants.

One of the things I’m most proud of is having my work featured on Good Day LA+, KTLA, and in the LA Times — incredible platforms that helped bring more visibility to the programs and their benefits. Seeing people discover a new way to move and fall in love with it is the greatest reward.

Of course, the journey hasn’t been easy. The COVID-19 pandemic was devastating, especially as fitness facilities and pools shut down for months. But I learned that time and patience are essential — you can’t force things. You just keep showing up, keep believing, and keep working. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that passion and consistency are what carry you through the hard times. They are the foundation of my brands and the reason I’ve kept moving forward, even when it felt impossible.

What I want the world to know is that I was the first to bring paddle board-inspired workouts into swimming pools — offering a safe, effective, and innovative environment for people of all ages. I’m also proud of B-BOARD®, which is more advanced and sometimes misunderstood. People often overlook the importance of balance training, especially as they age. But balance is one of the first things we start to lose — and if we don’t train it, we pay the price later.

I created these programs to help thousands of Americans stay active, strong, and balanced while having fun— before it’s too late. That’s my mission, and that’s the story I hope continues to inspire others to take charge of their health in a new and exciting way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting Los Angeles for the first time, I’d make sure they experience the essence of LA — from its natural beauty and iconic landmarks to its culture, food, and good vibes. Here’s my top 10 must-see spots to make the most out of a week-long trip:

1) Santa Monica Beach & Pier – A classic LA experience. We’d bike along the beach path, catch the sunset, and maybe even take a B-BOARD® class on the sand!

2) Griffith Observatory & Hike – Incredible views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. A hike up to the observatory is the perfect mix of nature and city skyline.

3) Venice Beach & Abbot Kinney Blvd – From the Muscle Beach scene to trendy shops and coffee spots, it’s LA at its most colorful and eclectic.

4) Runyon Canyon – Another iconic hike with some of the best views in town, and a great place to spot a celebrity or two!

5) The Getty Center – For art, architecture, and panoramic views, this museum is a must. Even the tram ride up is part of the experience.

6) Malibu – I’d take them up the coast for a beach day and lunch at Malibu Farm on the pier — fresh food, ocean breeze, and a relaxed, upscale vibe.

7) Grand Central Market – A food lover’s dream in Downtown LA. You can taste everything from tacos to ramen to gourmet donuts in one spot.

8) The Broad Museum + Walt Disney Concert Hall – Art and architecture collide downtown, followed by a walk through the arts district for drinks and street art.

9) Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive – Even if it’s just window shopping, it’s fun to soak up the glam and grab a coffee at Alfred’s.

10) Hollywood Bowl – If there’s a concert or movie night happening, this is the ultimate way to end a week — music under the stars in one of LA’s most iconic venues.

Los Angeles has a little something for everyone — whether you love nature, food, culture, or just want to feel that California sun. And of course, I’d also sneak in a class of AQUA STAND UP® or B-BOARD® to show them how we keep fit the LA way!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Without a doubt, my biggest shoutout goes to my family. AQUA STAND UP® and B-BOARD® are not just fitness programs — they are a family-built dream that came to life through the love, support, and unwavering belief of the people closest to me.

My wife, my son, and my wife’s parents have been with me every step of the way. Their support has been everything — from helping behind the scenes, to cheering me on when things got tough, to trusting the vision even when it wasn’t fully clear yet. They’ve been my anchor and my motivation, always there with patience, encouragement, and a quiet strength that reminded me why I started in the first place.

There were moments of doubt, moments of exhaustion — but knowing I wasn’t alone gave me the drive to keep moving forward. They believed in me before the world did, and for that, I’m endlessly grateful. This journey is ours, and I couldn’t have done it without them.

Website: https://www.wearelevelfitness.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bboard_us

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wearelevelfitness

Other: https://www.facebook.com/aquastandup/

www.instagram.com/aquastandup_us

https://www.youtube.com/@aquastandup1

Image Credits
Michael Blackshire

Gordon Chan

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