In an exclusive interview on SOS Radio Live, we had the honor of sitting down with Ary Nuñez, affectionately known as the Modern Day Ninja. Through her captivating words, she took us deep into the untold chapters of her life—the moments of struggle, the triumphs, and the transformative lessons that have shaped her into the powerhouse she is today. As a fitness expert, entrepreneur, and media personality, Ary’s life is nothing short of extraordinary—a story of resilience, reinvention, and purpose.
A Foundation of Movement
From the tender age of five, Ary immersed herself in ballet and karate, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion for movement. Her early years were filled with love, ambition, and endless promise. Yet, her world shifted when her father—her best friend and guiding force—tragically passed away when she was only ten years old.
The Turning Point: A Glimpse of Divine Intervention
The loss of her father sent Ary into a downward spiral, leading her into the depths of despair. At thirteen, in the midst of overwhelming darkness, she made a fateful decision to jump from the seventh floor of a building. But just before impact, Ary says she experienced an inexplicable sensation—a voice, as though from her father and from a higher power, telling her, “You are OK, you are with me.” In that fleeting moment, she felt a divine presence, as though she were being cradled in the arms of a guardian. When she landed, against all odds, not a single bone in her body was broken.
Rushed to the hospital and later transferred to a mental institution, Ary’s path took another unexpected turn. It was there, in the sterile walls of the institution, that she met a social worker who would change her life forever. “I see you. You are special. And you are causing your mother greater pain by being here,” the woman told her. These words struck Ary to her core. In that moment, she knew it was time for change. When she asked what she needed to do, the social worker gave her simple, yet profound advice: “The next time you have a roundtable with the doctors, say this: ‘I just wanted attention. I love my family. I love my mother. I love my life.'” Ary heeded her advice, and the result was immediate—she was released from the institution.
This release wasn’t just physical; it symbolized the release of her former self, marking the start of her incredible journey toward healing, strength, and purpose.
A Trailblazing Career in Fitness and Media
Ary’s tireless drive led her to break barriers in the fitness and entertainment industries. She became one of the first female trainers for the prestigious Nike Master Trainer program, setting a precedent for a career built on innovation and empowerment. Ary’s expertise in martial arts, dance, and functional training garnered the attention of global icons, including Rihanna, Alicia Keys, BakerGrace, Kat DeLuna, Heather Morris, David Tutera, Jaiko Lawrence, Jared Cotter, Jasmine Sullivan, Tyler Gurwicz, Ester Dean, Marlen Esparza, and Shawn Johnson, among others.
Her work has graced the pages of top-tier publications including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Self, Shape, Fitness, Men’s Health, and ESPN, to name a few. She is also a sought-after expert, frequently featured on major television networks such as COSMOBODY, Turner Broadcasting’s UPWAVE, WebMD, and ESPN. Her media presence is far-reaching, with appearances on NBC, ABC, FOX, Telemundo, VH1, MTV, and many more.
Ary’s influence extends well beyond the screen and page. As an entrepreneur, she has launched innovative fitness programs that blend martial arts, dance, and mind-body wellness, while also using her platform to inspire others to overcome adversity and unlock their inner warrior.
A Legacy of Strength and Empowerment
Ary Nuñez’s story is a living testament to the resilience of the human spirit. She has turned her darkest moments into stepping stones, transforming pain into power and dreams into reality. Through her journey, she proves that with resilience, purpose, and heart, nothing is impossible.
Her words echo as both a challenge and an invitation to us all: “Every single one of us has a warrior inside. The question is—are you willing to wake up and fight for yourself?”
Through her transformation, Ary continues to redefine what it means to be a warrior—not only in fitness but in life. She is a force of nature, a woman of profound purpose, and a living testament to the power of reinvention. Her journey serves as an inspiration to anyone who dares to rise above their circumstances and embrace the greatness that lies within.
