Rising Stars: Meet Monica Vargas of Denver

Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Vargas.

Monica, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Mónica Vargas, and I’m the founder of Mile High Sweat Club, a community built on movement, connection, and service.

The idea for Mile High Sweat Club began as something simple: I wanted to make fitness feel approachable and community easy to find. As a Veteran who honorably served in the U.S. Navy, community has always been a cornerstone of my life. When I transitioned out of the military and moved to Denver with my fiancé, finding that sense of belonging was the very first thing I searched for, but it wasn’t easy to find. So instead of continuing to search, I decided to create it.The journey wasn’t smooth. I faced moments of not knowing where to start, losing confidence, and navigating life while a family member very close to me, was battling cancer. There were times when it all felt overwhelming and nearly impossible.
During one of my visits to the hospital, I spent time talking with my Tío. That day he shared words that changed my life forever:

He said“Mija, we were put on this earth to serve. To give all the good we have and can create to those around us. So, whether it feels impossible, whether you’re scared, whether people are cruel for no reason, you were put here to impact those around you in a good way. And I know you can do it. So do it and do it with a smile.”

One month later, my Tío lost his battle with cancer. In that moment a fire was lit under me to live exactly as he believed I could; to serve, to lead with heart, and to show up with a smile even when things feel hard.

Since then, Mile High Sweat Club has grown into so much more than fitness. We’ve hosted over 25 community events across Denver, partnered with 15+ local businesses, and brought together incredible people from all over. None of it could be possible without the constant support of my family and friends but even more so, my amazing fiancé and little brother who helped bring every event to life. Each event is designed to make movement feel welcoming, not intimidating and to create an environment where people leave feeling strong, supported, smiling, and full-hearted.

At its core, Mile High Sweat Club is about community-centered fitness. It’s about showing up for yourself and for others. It’s about creating spaces where connection is just as important as movement, and where everyone feels like they belong.
I’m deeply grateful for every person who attends an event, every business that partners with us, and every community that welcomes us in. Mile High Sweat Club is my way of continuing the mission my Tío believed in; serving others, creating a positive impact, and doing it all with intention and a smile. Thank you all, and I can’t wait to see you at the next event.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey wasn’t smooth. I faced moments of not knowing where to start, losing confidence, and navigating life after loss. There were times when it all felt overwhelming and nearly impossible. As I learned more and remembered that life is full of opportunities to grow, not only personally but professionally, it all seemed to make sense as to why it was hard in the first place. Because nothing grows in comfortability, and honestly my Tíos words have continued to impact my decisions and my strengthened my determination to make a positive impact.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a fitness coach based in Denver, currently coaching at F45 RiNo and Rocky Mountain Flex Fitness (RMFLEX). At F45, I lead both strength-based and cardio-based group training formats, while at RMFLEX I program and coach hybrid and HIIT classes that blend strength, conditioning, and functional movement.

In addition to in-person coaching, I run my own online training program for women where I focus on nutritional awareness, habit tracking, and assisting in building confidence and structure in their workouts. My goal is not just to help them train, but to help them understand why they’re training the way they are, why it is important and how it fits into their lifestyle long-term.

I’m best known for my welcoming presence and positive energy, both in and out of the gym. Creating an environment where people feel supported, seen, and encouraged is something I pour my heart into daily. What truly sets me apart is my ability to combine structured, effective training with genuine community and approachability, making fitness feel less intimidating and more sustainable for everyone who walks through the door.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a strong support system throughout this journey. My parents and my parents-in-law have always been extremely encouraging at every stage of building this community, offering constant belief and reassurance as Mile High Sweat Club has grown.

With that being said, I believe my fiancé and my little brother have truly been the glue behind every single event. My fiancé has supported me through every idea, every plot twist, and every phase of this journey. From helping prep tables and equipment the night before, to loading cars late into the evening, slowing me down when I was moving too fast, to designing my logo, creating custom stickers for each event then setting up events, and reassuring me in moments of doubt that yes, I can do this, he has made this experience one I will always find joy in building because I have him by by side.

As for my little brother, there is something incredibly special about having a piece of home here, someone who can look at you and simply say, “You’ve got this, sis. I believe in you.” That belief has meant more than words can express and has helped make every challenge worthwhile.

Without the two of them, I wouldn’t have been able to turn a hard season of life into something as meaningful and special as Mile High Sweat Club has become. For that, I am forever grateful to have them by my side on this journey.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milehighsweatclub/

Image Credits
Grace Mchugh