Finding balance through movement

The owner of Daily Dose Wellness in Sparwood talks about creating a studio that brings people together.

Marisa Steen, owner and lead instructor at Daily Dose Wellness in Sparwood, has built a studio offering personal training, group classes, and an on-demand library. — Photos courtesy of Marisa Steen

As the owner and lead instructor at Daily Dose Wellness, Marisa Steen has built a studio focused on creating a welcoming space where people can move, build strength and feel supported in their wellness journey.

What began as a passion for group fitness has grown into a business offering personal training, group classes and an expanding on-demand library designed to make movement accessible anytime and anywhere. In this Q&A, Steen shares how Daily Dose Wellness began, what drives her approach to fitness, and why building community remains at the heart of everything the studio offers.

Can you introduce yourself and your role at Daily Dose Wellness?

My name is Marisa, and I’m the owner and  fitness instructor at Daily Dose Wellness. I’ve been teaching for over five years, and fitness has become more than a career—it’s my passion. I discovered group fitness during a time of big life changes and fell in love with the sense of community it brought back into my life after growing up playing sports. Now, I get to create that same supportive, uplifting environment for others through personal training, group classes, and our growing on-demand virtual studio.

What inspired you to start this business?

I’ve always known I wanted to start my own fitness studio—it was never a question of if, just when. While I was teaching at multiple other studios, I began to feel a strong pull to create something of my own. When I wasn’t sure if opening a physical space would happen as quickly as it did, I decided to take action by starting an on-demand virtual studio during that waiting phase. What truly inspired Daily Dose Wellness is the feeling teaching brings me—it genuinely lights me up. The clients I work with energize and inspire me, and I knew I wanted to make it my mission to create a positive, welcoming space where anyone and everyone feels supported, empowered, and included.

How would you describe your approach to wellness?

My approach to wellness is rooted in balance. I believe in enjoying life while still taking care of your body—finding movement you actually like, eating foods that nourish you, and allowing yourself to enjoy the little things. There are times for discipline and times when movement is simply for mental clarity and joy. Wellness is more than just physical; it’s about supporting your overall well-being.

What services or offerings are central to your business right now ?

Currently, Daily Dose Wellness is centered around three core pillars: one-on-one personal training, group fitness classes like yoga, Pilates, barre, strength training, and our on-demand class library that allows members to move with us anytime, anywhere. We currently have an amazing instructor team that allows us to offer a wide variety of class types.

How do you tailor your services to meet people where they are, rather than where they think they should be?

We meet people where they are by removing the pressure of perfection. We offer options and modifications so everyone can move in a way that feels supportive for their body and lifestyle. The focus is on progress, confidence, and building a sustainable relationship with movement—not unrealistic expectations.

What common challenges do clients come to you with?

Many clients come to us wanting to build strength and create a routine they can actually stick to. Consistency is often the biggest challenge, so we focus on helping them find an approach to movement that feels realistic, enjoyable, and sustainable long-term.

How do you help people integrate wellness into every day life in a realistic way?

We make wellness approachable by focusing on flexibility, not perfection. Through options like our on-demand library with various class lengths, and our in-person class schedule that offers many classes to choose from on a weekly basis, clients can fit movement into their day in a way that feels realistic and sustainable. It’s about supporting everyday life, not adding more pressure.

What has been the most meaningful feedback you’ve received from clients?

The most meaningful feedback is hearing how our classes help people beyond the physical. As someone who values mental health, it’s incredibly rewarding to know that our community has found support, comfort, and strength through what we offer. I feel so grateful to do work that truly serves others.

What advice would you give to others thinking of opening their own wellness business?

Before starting your own wellness business, ask yourself if you’re ready to make it more than a side hustle. Get clear on your why, take action, and don’t wait for the perfect moment—it rarely comes. Small, consistent steps lead to big results, and I’ll be cheering you on the whole way!

What’s next for Daily Dose Wellness?

We’re definitely still in a growth phase, exploring new opportunities and figuring things out as we go. There are a few additional modalities I’d love to introduce in the future, and we’re also focused on expanding our online presence through our virtual studio. At the core, though, our priority remains the same: providing exceptional service and creating a supportive, welcoming space for our community. Behind the scenes, we’re always working on ways to enhance the experience and make wellness more accessible for everyone.