Meet Dominique & Dj Coe of The BodyGames Center

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dominique & Dj Coe

Hi Dominique & Dj, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In December 2019, BodyGames emerged from the Coe family’s vision, founded by ‘DJ’ Coe, his father Dr. Derick Coe, DPT, and his wife Dominique Coe. The idea of a Well/Fit Center that seamlessly integrates fitness, rehabilitation (physical therapy), and overall wellness (mental health, nutrition, etc.) had been a long-discussed dream.

The journey from concept to reality was accelerated by the birth of their daughter in May 2019 and a series of unforeseen events. Within a few months, they secured a building, ordered equipment, and faced the challenges of obtaining funding as minority first-time entrepreneurs. In January 2020, they began renovating an old gym space, aiming for a March opening. However, the onset of the North Carolina state of emergency declaration coincided with their planned opening, delaying operations until July 2020.

Amidst these obstacles, the Coe family adapted by offering free virtual workouts, broadcasting live from their garage at 5 am while their children slept. They also hosted outdoor, socially-distanced workouts a few days each month, ensuring they remained connected with their community. By July 2020, BodyGames officially opened its doors, attracting an enthusiastic community eager to return to fitness after months of isolation. Overcoming the fear of indoor workouts during the pandemic was a significant challenge, but the dedication of their members was unwavering.

Just as the business found its rhythm, disputes with landlords forced BodyGames to close its physical location on Guess Rd. in July 2022, merely two weeks after the birth of their third child. The Coes had hoped to relocate within 30-60 days after finding an ideal space in April 2022, but the reopening was delayed until January 2023. During these six months, their resilient community continued to gather in local parks and church facilities, demonstrating unwavering support. Despite the hottest summer days and the coldest winter months, their members showed up, committed to their fitness journey and the BodyGames family.

Once the new lease was finalized, the community came together to paint walls, inscribe quotes and Bible scriptures beneath the floating floor, and transform the new space into a welcoming home. 2023 saw remarkable growth, with new members joining and the community thriving. The Coes adapted their coaching approach, moving away from mainstream programming to develop their unique style of lifts, cardio, and spin.

BodyGames is more than a gym; it’s a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the strength of community. Each hurdle has only strengthened their bond, relying on the support of North Durham, their family, and their faith. The best way to experience the incredible atmosphere is to join and feel the positive energy firsthand.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been a smooth road for BodyGames. The journey has been marked by several significant challenges, starting with the initial struggle to secure funding as minority first-time entrepreneurs. Establishing a Well/Fit Center that integrates fitness, rehabilitation, and wellness was a dream, but turning it into reality required overcoming numerous obstacles.

The pandemic posed a monumental challenge, particularly for gyms. Our planned opening coincided with the North Carolina state of emergency declaration, delaying our operations. Once we could open, we had to navigate the complexities of operating a gym during a global health crisis. This included implementing strict health protocols, such as mandatory mask-wearing, and managing the fears of our community about indoor workouts.

We also faced disputes with our landlords, which led to us closing our physical location on Guess Rd. in July 2022, just two weeks after the birth of our third child. The process of relocating took much longer than anticipated. For six months, we were without a permanent gym home, yet our resilient community didn’t falter. We adapted by holding workouts in local parks and church facilities, showing up despite the summer heat and winter cold.

Through every challenge, our resilience and determination to create a better future for generations to come have been our driving forces. We have always relied on our faith in God to guide us through difficult times. The strength and support of our community, combined with our unwavering commitment to our vision, have seen us through these struggles and continue to inspire us to move forward.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
BodyGames is a community movement dedicated to empowering families and neighbors to become better, faster, and stronger by bridging the gap between fitness, rehabilitation, and wellness. At BodyGames, you experience more than just a workout; you feel empowered to be your best self and discover a sense of family with each class you take.

We offer Total Body Strength Training with barbell lifts on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and Cardio/Conditioning classes on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturday mornings. All our members enjoy 24/7 open gym access, and we don’t require contracts. We believe in the value we provide and trust that if our vision for longevity and holistic well-being aligns with yours, you’ll stay with us.

In addition to our exercise programs, we provide 1-on-1 goal-setting coaching, nutrition coaching, and mindset coaching. We focus on you as a whole person, not just a body seeking to lose weight or gain muscle. Our podcast, The Reset Channel, explores topics related to life, growth, mindset challenges, and overcoming obstacles. Our mission is to build both generational wealth and generational health.

We also offer physical therapy services to address any potential aches, pains, or post-injury recovery needs.

We are proud to have been voted Durham’s Best Place to Get in Shape since our inception. This award means the world to us as we pour our hearts into our community. At BodyGames, we proudly say, “Built for the community, by the community!”

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Something fun that most people don’t know is that Dj and Dominique (founders and spouses) actually met a gym years before BodyGames was ever thought about. We find it to be such a full-circle moment and fun fact about some of our founders!

Pricing:

• Unlimited Membership $139/month, no contract and includes 24/7 Open Gym
• Special Rate Membership for teachers, students and first responders $119/month

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thebodygamescenter.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodygamesllc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BodyGamesLLC/