Meet Giovanna
I've always believed that growing older should never mean giving up the things that make life meaningful.
Long before I earned degrees and certifications, I knew I wanted to spend my life helping people. At 17, I became a Certified Nursing Assistant and began caring for older adults here in Santa Barbara. Those early years taught me something that has guided every step since: the greatest impact happens before a crisis. Helping people stay healthy, strong, connected, and independent is just as important as caring for them when they're sick.
That belief led me to earn a Bachelor's degree in Public Health with a focus on community health, where I learned that prevention is one of the most powerful forms of healthcare. Later, I completed my Master's in Gerontology at the University of Southern California, deepening my understanding of healthy aging, brain health, dementia, and the factors that allow people to thrive throughout life.
Along the way, movement has always been part of who I am. I grew up playing soccer, practicing gymnastics, dancing, and teaching fitness classes. Whether leading Zumba at a university, teaching yoga, or coaching strength training today, I've seen firsthand how movement builds confidence, resilience, and joy at every age.
My career has allowed me to work across healthcare, public health, and aging services—from supporting families one-on-one to advancing dementia education through the Healthy Brain Initiative with the Los Angeles City Department of Aging. Every experience reinforced the same truth: healthy aging isn't about simply living longer. It's about protecting independence, purpose, mobility, relationships, and quality of life.
That's why I created Keep SB Fit.
Keep SB Fit was born from the idea that aging well should be proactive, personal, and empowering. As a Santa Barbara local, I've always admired the active, vibrant spirit of our community. I wanted to create something that helps older adults continue enjoying everything they love—whether that's walking the beach, playing with grandchildren, traveling, gardening, or simply feeling confident in their own bodies.
My mission is simple: help people move better, stay stronger, support brain health, and live with greater confidence for years to come.
Today, I work with older adults and their families through personalized fitness, brain health education, and healthy aging coaching designed to make longevity something you can actively build—not simply hope for.
Giovanna is an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Dementia Practitioner. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Public Health from California State University, Los Angeles, and a Master's degree in Gerontology from the University of Southern California.
