PETEY DANDINI
Owner & Head Coach

Petey Dandini grew up as a year-round athlete, playing basketball, football, baseball, and lacrosse. Despite his athletic background, he struggled with his weight throughout childhood and into high school. His real fitness journey began as a teenager, when he lost over 100 pounds — a milestone he would repeat three times in his life. Each season brought new lessons in resilience, discipline, and growth.

After college, Petey pursued fitness and coaching more seriously. He became a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, working at Orangetheory Fitness and other local gyms. Throughout those years, he often felt like he wasn’t “good enough,” especially in traditional gym environments. That perspective shifted when he experienced the power of coaches who truly supported him. They didn’t just help him lose weight — they helped him believe in himself.

That sense of being seen, supported, and pushed to grow gave Petey a feeling of belonging, and ultimately inspired him to create RISE. His vision was to build a space where people could work on themselves without judgment, surrounded by a community that lifts each other up.

Today, Petey leads RISE with the belief that fitness is more than just physical transformation. It’s about building confidence, finding purpose, and reminding every member that they’re never doing it alone.

MALIK COLON
Coach

Malik’s journey in fitness began back in high school, where time in the weight room sparked a lifelong passion for training. What started as football workouts grew into a deep dedication to bodybuilding and the pursuit of physical excellence.

Over the years, Malik has worked to master the science of training, nutrition, and physique development — while continually refining his own craft as a bodybuilder. He brings that same discipline, attention to detail, and drive for growth to every session he coaches at RISE.

Just as important, Malik’s passion for his faith shapes the way he shows up for others. He leads with positivity, encouragement, and a focus on building people up — both in and out of the gym. For him, coaching isn’t just about sets and reps, it’s about creating a culture of support, accountability, and purpose.

At RISE, Malik’s mission is simple: help people get stronger, move better, and feel confident while reminding them that they don’t have to do it alone.

COACH DAISY
Chief Happiness Officer

Daisy is the four-legged heart of RISE. As Chief Happiness Officer, her specialties include greeting members at the door, boosting morale with tail wags, and reminding everyone that fitness should be fun. Whether she’s supervising classes, sneaking in belly rubs, or showing off her zoomies, Daisy keeps the energy high and the community smiling.

Her role is simple but powerful: making sure every member feels welcome, supported, and part of the RISE family.