Best of the Back Mountain: Brad Hontz helping clients look and feel better

DALLAS — Brad Hontz, general manager of the Barn Nutrition & Fitness, was thrilled when he learned that he had been named “Best Fitness Trainer” in the Best of the Back Mountain Readers Choice poll.

And, Hontz was quick to share the honor with Mary Dragon, the owner of the business and his fiancee.

He remembers coming back to the area after living in the southeastern part of the country and wanting to re-invent himself.

Hontz admits he was a bit broken, but knew that the one thing he could do was work out and inspire others to work out, as well.

So, when he met Dragon at the gym, he pointed out to her that he didn’t have a lot to offer.

But Hontz said Dragon told him she viewed him as “a diamond in the rough,” and was sure he had potential.

The two began helping others on their fitness journey, using both exercise and nurtition.

They started with one young woman, but the couple were soon assisting 1,400 people who were coming to their house weekly.

“It was a bit much for the neighbor,” Hontz said.

So when the barn at 100 E. Overbrook Road in Dallas became available, the two soon decided to move their business into the rustic space.

The three story building is equipped for a variety of fitness classes, complete with high-tech treadmills, rowers, spinning bikes and even punching bags.

When a farmhouse became available next door, the couple decided to expand their business there — using that building as a nutrition center – home to both nutrition counseling and a retail store for healthy foods.

Looking better, feeling better

Hontz, a former professional wrestler, said the secret to his success is that he brings laughter to classes.

When his mostly female clients tease him, he “gives it right back.”

Sometimes when he tells an admittedly corny joke, a client will say, “You can’t make me laugh I’m doing something here.”

But, the levity provides motivation and soon everyone is back at it, he said.

He points out that he is not trying to turn his clients into body builders or football players, but instead assist them in getting healthier.

“Everyone wants to look better, feel better,” he said.

Having said that, often when someone visits the business and sees the demonstrations by his clients, they are impressed and surprised.

Many of his clients are women over 50, who come in a bit tentative.

But, Hontz lets them “start where they’re at,” and soon they are keeping up with the best of them.

Hontz said the pandemic has left many people wanting to get healthy or regain their health, during a year of reduced activity.

The Barn is a great spot for that goal, packing a one-two punch of both exercise and nutrition.

Hontz said, although the business caters to many people in the Back Mountain, people come to the business from all over.

Fitness, he said, is a long-term lifestyle, and should include a great deal of fun.