Interview with Barbara D’Agostino, founder of Reload Asd

A journey driven by passion for sport, determination, and the desire to challenge herself: Barbara D’Agostino shares how she turned a long-held dream into a concrete reality, creating a space dedicated to well-being and personal growth.

What is your name and what is your role?
I am Barbara D’Agostino, founder and owner of Reload Asd gym, a project that fully represents my vision of sport and well-being. Today, I manage the facility and support people every day in their journey of physical and personal growth.

What is your background?
My journey began in the world of volleyball, where I had the opportunity to grow both as a player and as an instructor, developing discipline, team spirit, and a strong focus on people. This passion led me to pursue academic studies in the field, earning a Master’s degree at IUSM. Over time, my curiosity and desire to evolve brought me closer and closer to the fitness world, especially functional training, which I found extremely dynamic and complete. From there, the idea of turning this passion into something concrete was born, eventually leading me to open my own gym.

When and why did you decide to open your studio?
Opening a gym has always been my dream, something I nurtured over time without ever truly letting it go. At a certain point, however, I realized it could no longer remain just an idea: the desire to challenge myself, to prove that I could build something of my own, and the need for personal growth became stronger and stronger. Then the right opportunity came along-a space that felt perfect for this project. In that moment, I understood it was the sign I had been waiting for. I decided not to postpone any longer and to take that chance with determination and great energy.

What motivated you to open a gym?
What truly motivates me every day is seeing people feel good. For me, the gym is not just a place to train, but a space where people can dedicate time to themselves, improve, and find balance. I know how difficult it can be to get started: between work commitments, family responsibilities, or simply a lack of confidence, taking the first step is often the hardest part. But even if I can help someone change their perspective just a little, helping them understand how important it is to take care of themselves, then I feel I have achieved my goal. Doing this in a space I created, a place I consider “home,” makes it even more meaningful.

How did you choose Xenios as your technical partner?
Choosing Xenios felt almost natural. I discovered the brand through social media and the web, and I was immediately impressed by the quality of the products, the refined design, and the strong brand identity. As I looked deeper, I realized it was not just about aesthetics-thereis real expertise and customer care behind it. Throughout the entire purchasing process, I was supported with professionalism and availability, receiving targeted advice and practical help, even in managing the budget. I never felt like “just a customer,” but part of a shared project. That truly made the difference.

What were the main challenges?
Without a doubt, the most complex phase was related to renovation planning and bureaucracy. Between design processes, permits, and often unpredictable timelines, I had to face several delays that postponed the opening. It was a demanding period that required patience, adaptability, and strong determination to stay focused on the final goal.

How did Xenios support you?
From an equipment standpoint, my experience with Xenios was extremely smooth. I did not encounter any significant issues and, even in a small unexpected situation-the absence of some bolts for the wall ball plate-their response was immediate. I received a reply very quickly and the materials arrived without delay. This kind of fast and efficient support shows a high level of professionalism and great attention to the customer, even after the sale.

What is the mission of your project?
My vision for Reload Asd is clear: I want it to grow and become an increasingly comprehensive point of reference. I am already planning to expand the space and continuously improve both the equipment and the team, in order to offer an even higher level of service. The goal is to create an environment where people can be supported at 360 degrees-not only in training, but in everything related to well-being. I want everyone who walks into Reload to find not just a gym, but a place where they feel welcomed, supported, and motivated throughout their journey.