Meet Rocco Carlo Distefano

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rocco Carlo Distefano and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rocco Carlo, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
How to Know Whether to Keep Going or to Give Up: A Lesson from The Lab Athletic Club

Life often presents us with challenges that test our resolve, and the decision to keep going or to let go can be one of the toughest we face. At The Lab Athletic Club, we believe that grit, passion, and resilience are essential not just in the gym but in life as well.

My journey has been shaped by both immense love and deep loss. On March 3, 2017, I lost my mother to an untimely death from a fentanyl overdose. Her battle with opioid addiction began after a fiery car accident at 14 left her in pain, leading to a dependency that eventually consumed her life. Watching someone I loved struggle, and feeling powerless to help, ignited a passion within me to dedicate my life to helping others improve their health and well-being—because I couldn’t help her get better.

Six weeks after my mom passed, I moved to Los Angeles to coach the UCLA football team in strength, conditioning, and performance nutrition. I needed to step away from my old life and create a new path, one where I could make a difference. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” I was determined to forge a new trail where I could help others, whether they were overcoming addiction or simply striving for a healthier life in spirit, mind, and body.

On the other hand, my father, a former professional bodybuilder, gave me structure and discipline. In the world of weight training, a constant 25-pound weight is always 25 pounds—it never changes. That constancy became a metaphor for life’s struggles: you take on the weight, learn to lift it, and grow stronger in the process. The discipline of bodybuilding, combined with the grit I learned through sports, taught me that life can be unfair. Sometimes, just like in sports, the ball doesn’t always bounce in your favor. But no matter what, you have to keep playing the game.

The question of whether to keep going or to give up comes down to several key factors:

• Purpose and Passion: Why did you start in the first place? If that purpose still burns within you, it might be worth enduring the obstacles. Passion can fuel you through even the toughest moments.
• Progress and Potential: Reflect on the progress you’ve made and the potential that lies ahead. Even small victories are signs that you’re on the right path.
• Effort vs. Outcome: If your effort hasn’t matched your desired outcome, maybe it’s time to reassess your approach. Sometimes, it’s not about giving up but about changing direction.
• Support System: Lean on those around you who believe in you. Having the right support can make all the difference.
• Well-being: Prioritize your physical and emotional health. If something is harming you, it’s okay to take a step back and reassess.
• Adaptability: Just because one way isn’t working doesn’t mean there isn’t another way to reach your goal.

Through all of life’s trials, whether you’re lifting weights or facing setbacks, leading with love, gratitude, and persistence will see you through. You win some, you lose some, but if you approach each challenge with an open heart and an unwavering commitment to your goals, life has a way of working itself out.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The Lab Athletic Club is more than just a gym—it’s a community dedicated to holistic wellness, where the focus is on developing strength in mind, body, and spirit. What sets us apart is our commitment to creating a boutique fitness environment that combines top-tier equipment, personalized training, and a sense of belonging. We provide not just the tools for physical transformation but also the guidance and support to help our members navigate their unique health journeys.

I’m proud of the culture we’ve built at The Lab, where everyone is encouraged to be their best self. We emphasize a “formula” for success that goes beyond traditional workouts, incorporating strength training, conditioning, nutrition, mental health, and recovery. This well-rounded approach has allowed us to help people achieve their goals, whether they’re pursuing aesthetics, sports performance, or simply a healthier lifestyle.

The journey to where we are today wasn’t easy. After losing my mother to a fentanyl overdose, I sought a way to help others live healthier lives, and six weeks later, I moved to Los Angeles to coach the UCLA football team. I knew I wanted to create something bigger, where I could make a lasting impact, and that became the vision for The Lab Athletic Club.

Building this business has come with its challenges—from navigating legal disputes to overcoming personal setbacks—but these obstacles have only strengthened my resolve. The lesson I’ve learned is that resilience and adaptability are key. Life will always throw challenges your way, but with a clear purpose and the right support, you can turn those challenges into stepping stones.

What I want the world to know about The Lab is that we are here to guide, inspire, and uplift. Our mission is to help people transform not just physically, but also mentally and spiritually. We believe that leading with love, compassion, and gratitude creates a foundation where everyone can grow stronger together.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Los Angeles for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the best of what the city has to offer. Here’s a little itinerary of some of my favorite spots:

Day 1: Welcome to LA

• Start with a hearty breakfast at Dialog Café in West Hollywood, known for its fresh smoothies and delicious avocado toast.
• Head to Runyon Canyon for a morning hike with stunning views of the city and the Hollywood sign.
• Spend the afternoon at The Lab Athletic Club—whether it’s for a training session, some recovery work, or just to check out the boutique environment I’ve built.
• Enjoy a sunset drink or dinner at Soho House Holloway House to kick off the evening with a stylish and intimate vibe.
• End the night at Catch LA for a rooftop dinner with amazing food and a beautiful sunset view.

Day 2: Beach Day in Malibu

• Grab coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee in Malibu before driving up the Pacific Coast Highway.
• Spend the day at El Matador Beach, known for its beautiful rock formations and secluded vibe.
• Have lunch at Malibu Farm on the pier, and then relax with a drink at Nobu Malibu, soaking in the ocean view.

Day 3: Explore West Hollywood and Beverly Hills

• Start with breakfast at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker.
• Take a stroll down Melrose Avenue to explore boutiques, street art, and vintage shops.
• Visit Rodeo Drive for a luxury shopping experience.
• End the night at The Edition Hotel rooftop for drinks, and then head downstairs to watch Diplo DJ at the club for a late-night WeHo experience.

Day 4: Culture and Sports in Downtown LA

• Spend the day exploring The Broad Museum and Walt Disney Concert Hall.
• Grab lunch at Grand Central Market, where you can find a variety of amazing food stalls.
• Head over to Wurstküche in the Arts District for beer and sausages, with a casual yet fun vibe.
• If it’s baseball, football, or basketball season, catch a Dodgers, Lakers, Clippers, Rams, or Chargers game to experience the city’s sports culture.

Day 5: Adventure and Chill

• Head to Universal Studios for a day of rides, movie magic, and fun.
• Have a relaxing evening with a late dinner at E.P. & L.P., enjoying the rooftop lounge and city views.

Day 6: Santa Monica and Venice

• Start with brunch at Shutters on the Beach.
• Spend the day biking from Santa Monica Pier down to Venice Beach, checking out Muscle Beach, street performers, and local vendors.
• After dinner at Elephante in Santa Monica, head over to The Bungalow for some drinks and a laid-back, beachy nightlife vibe.
• Catch the sunset from the Venice Canals or Santa Monica Pier.

Day 7: Wrap Up with Relaxation

• Begin with brunch at Beachwood Cafe, followed by a walk to admire the iconic view of the Hollywood sign.
• Treat the day as a wellness retreat. Head to The Lab Athletic Club for a yoga session, followed by an ice bath and stretch.
• Spend the afternoon visiting Remedy Place for a wellness experience.
• Close the week with a farewell dinner at Soho House West Hollywood, enjoying a final view of the city lights.

From active adventures to incredible food and relaxing vibes, Los Angeles has a little something for everyone, and I’d make sure my friend leaves feeling energized, inspired, and with great memories!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to a few key people who have been integral to my story. First and foremost, to my late mother, whose struggle with addiction and untimely passing pushed me to dedicate my life to helping others lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Her journey taught me compassion, resilience, and the importance of supporting those who are struggling.

I’d also like to recognize my father, a former professional bodybuilder, who instilled in me the discipline, structure, and love for fitness. He taught me that lifting weights is not just about physical strength but also mental toughness and perseverance.

Lastly, my gratitude extends to my community at The Lab Athletic Club, my friends, and mentors who have supported me every step of the way. Their encouragement, love, and belief in my vision have made all the difference, helping me pave a new path where I can leave a trail for others to follow.

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