Tiago Vilaca

From a young age, Tiago was always on the move. Growing up, he played every sport he could soccer, basketball, track and field, shot put, long jump anything that challenged his body and coordination. Without realizing it, he was developing a lifelong appreciation for variety in movement and the process of learning new skills, something that still drives his approach to fitness today.

During high school, Tiago’s curiosity shifted toward the science behind movement  how the human body functions, adapts, and thrives through physical activity. He became fascinated by how fitness not only builds strength but also helps prevent health issues and improves quality of life. That curiosity marked the true beginning of his fitness journey. Like many, Tiago started training at a traditional gym with friends. Over time, as others’ motivation faded, his passion only grew stronger. Eventually, a friend  and now mentor Hernani Ourique, owner of a CrossFit gym, invited Tiago to try a class.

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Walking in, Tiago knew little about CrossFit and had no idea what was coming. His first workout? “Fran.” Midway through the workout, gasping for air and taking breaks between reps, he wondered what he had gotten himself into. But as he fought to finish, something unexpected happened the coaches and members, complete strangers at the time, rallied behind him, cheering him on to the last rep.

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Flat on his back, drenched in sweat, Tiago realized two things:

1. He wanted to give every person who walked through the doors that same supportive, motivating experience  regardless of their background or fitness level.

2. He wasn’t as fit as he thought — and that realization ignited a new fire to improve, learn, and grow.

Today, Tiago brings that same passion and empathy to every class he coaches. His goal is simple: to create an environment where people feel challenged, cared for, and capable of more than they ever thought possible.

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