At 1481 Nevada Highway 372, Zen Style Fitness and Coaching has become more than just a place to work out—it’s a hub for personal transformation and community connection. Owners C.J. and Debby Zens, who took ownership in December, have reimagined the gym into a space that prioritizes physical fitness, mental well-being, and inclusivity. Drawing on C.J.’s extensive fitness expertise and Debby’s administrative skills, the couple is creating a unique fitness experience for the Pahrump community.
C.J.’s journey into fitness began four and a half years ago as a gym member, but his passion for the field quickly led him to pursue formal training. With a background in mental health, C.J. recognized the therapeutic benefits of exercise. “It helps a lot of people in a lot of different ways, both mentally and physically,” he explained. To deepen his impact, C.J. earned a series of certifications that allow him to provide tailored fitness solutions for a wide range of clients.
He began with his Level 1 CrossFit certification and quickly advanced to Level 2, solidifying his ability to coach effectively and safely. He also earned a certification in gymnastics movements—not the kind seen in the Olympics but in functional fitness, focusing on bodyweight exercises such as pull-ups, handstands, and muscle-ups. “Gymnastics in fitness is about mastering your body’s movements,” C.J. said. “It’s a foundation for strength and flexibility.”
C.J. also specializes in working with older adults, earning a Masters Fitness certification to ensure he can create safe, effective workouts for clients with varying mobility and health concerns. His Scaling Certification equips him to adapt workouts for individuals based on their abilities, allowing everyone to participate without feeling overwhelmed. “If someone can’t do a pull-up or lift heavy weights, I help them find variations that work for their body while still achieving the same workout benefits,” he said.
His Nutrition Certification enables him to guide clients in improving their diets, from basic healthy eating tips to detailed nutrition plans. “Good nutrition is just as important as the workouts,” C.J. emphasized. “We focus on the whole person—mind, body, and fuel.”
Debby’s journey into fitness started with a simple desire to stay active, but her role has since evolved into managing the day-to-day operations of Zen Style Fitness. “I’m mostly admin right now,” she said, though she plans to pursue her own training certification this year. Balancing her role at the gym with her other jobs as a nail technician and her work with a mental and behavioral health company, Debby is just as passionate about serving the community as C.J.
The opportunity to purchase the gym came unexpectedly when the original owner, looking to focus on other ventures, offered it to them. The couple didn’t hesitate. “We wanted to take the reins and see if we could do it,” C.J. said. For Debby, the gym is a “passion project,” a meaningful way to give back to the community while fostering a supportive and welcoming fitness environment.
Zen Style Fitness operates on a foundation of functional fitness, focusing on programming that is scalable and accessible. While it incorporates elements of CrossFit, the gym is not affiliated with the brand. “We have two programming styles: basic functional fitness and life programming, which is scaled down for beginners to make it less intimidating,” C.J. explained.
Membership options are designed to meet a variety of needs. Open gym access is available for $50 per month, allowing members 24/7 access with no contracts. Those seeking more structure can choose the basic package at $200 per month, which includes unlimited group classes and open gym access. The premium package, at $260 per month, adds the support of an accountability coach, monthly goal-setting sessions, and body composition scans. “It’s about looking at more than just the number on the scale,” C.J. said. “We take a holistic approach to health.”
Zen Style Fitness caps memberships at 150 to maintain a personalized and spacious environment. Open gym memberships are limited to 50 to ensure that members never feel overcrowded. “Our intention isn’t to become a big-box gym,” C.J. emphasized. “We want people to know they can come in and focus without distractions.”
For families, the gym includes a dedicated kids’ area, giving parents a safe space to leave their children while they work out. “It allows parents to prioritize their health without worrying about childcare,” Debby explained. Safety remains a priority, with children required to stay in the designated area.
Plans for a vending machine offering protein shakes, energy drinks, and water will soon provide members with convenient post-workout options. “We want to make sure people have everything they need to succeed,” C.J. said.
Although they’ve only been operating for a short time, C.J. and Debby already have big plans for the future. Their current two-year lease allows time to establish Zen Style Fitness as a cornerstone of the Pahrump community while they explore options to expand or build a larger facility. They also hope to offer discounts for students, first responders, and military personnel as membership grows. “It’s all about building a strong foundation first,” Debby said.
Safety and accessibility are also key priorities. With 24/7 access, the gym is equipped with security cameras monitoring both the interior and parking lot. The couple is always reachable by phone for any concerns. “We wouldn’t hesitate to come down if someone needed us,” Debby assured.
Zen Style Fitness and Coaching is more than a gym—it’s a testament to C.J. and Debby’s dedication to improving lives through fitness and connection. With a focus on inclusivity, personalized service, and genuine care for their community, they’ve created a space where members can thrive physically and mentally. As C.J. put it, “It’s not just about working out—it’s about building a community where people feel empowered to achieve their goals.”
