Since 1981

Meet The
Hest Team

For over 40 years, the HEST team has been South Texas' most trusted name in fitness equipment — combining deep industry knowledge with genuine passion for health and wellness.

40+
Years in Business
3
Texas Showrooms
1981
Founded in Corpus Christi
Our Belief

Every Body
Trains.

And every body deserves equipment that performs.

At Hest Fitness Products, we believe premium fitness should be accessible to every lifestyle, every goal, and every budget. Whether you're building your first home gym, upgrading your wellness routine, or designing a luxury training space — we help you create an environment that inspires consistency and results.

Because fitness isn't only about aesthetics. It's about energy. Confidence. Longevity. Mobility. Performance. Independence. Vitality. And every body deserves access to that.

Feel Better.
More energy. Less pain. Better health. When you invest in your body, everything else improves — your mood, your focus, your relationships, your output.
Look Better.
Build confidence through consistency. The goal isn't perfection — it's showing up and seeing results from the work you put in. We give you the equipment to make that happen.
Do More.
Live stronger at every age and every stage. Whether you're 25 or 75, a beginner or an athlete — we believe every person deserves access to equipment that helps them perform at their best.
Our People

The Hest Team

Albert & Paula Kessler
Owners & Founders
Albert & Paula Kessler
Corpus Christi

In 1981, Albert and Paula founded HEST Fitness Products in Corpus Christi. What began as a hobby developed into a full-service business spanning over 43 years. Albert and Paula built HEST on the belief that the best way to serve customers is to employ the best people, maintain high product standards, and always exceed expectations.

Joseph Gonzalez
General Manager
Joseph Gonzalez
All Locations

A Collegiate All-American and 10-year Minor League Baseball veteran, Joseph brings over 31 years of fitness sales experience and 34 years of retail management to HEST. His passion for fitness and people makes him a cornerstone of the HEST team.

Steve Byerley
Assistant General Manager
Steve Byerley
Corpus Christi

With over 38 years in the fitness industry and 50+ years as a fitness enthusiast, Steve has helped thousands of customers set up everything from home fitness rooms to full commercial health clubs.

Edgar Santana
Store Manager
Edgar Santana
McAllen

Starting in 2005 as a Delivery & Assembly Technician, Edgar worked his way up to Store Manager. Bilingual with family in Monterrey, Mexico, he seamlessly assists customers looking to export equipment across the border.

Roland Brown, Jr.
Store Manager
Roland Brown, Jr.
San Antonio

With three decades in the fitness industry — from aerobics instructor to studio owner — Roland brings a unique depth of experience. His mission is to empower every customer to take charge of their physical well-being.

Jose C. Partida (Joey)
Commercial Account Sales Manager
Jose C. Partida (Joey)
McAllen & San Antonio

With 15+ years in fitness and wellness, Joey specializes in commercial sales — helping clients design and equip fitness spaces tailored to their specific needs. A UTRGV Business Administration graduate known for his expertise and personal touch.

Alfonso "Al" Guzman
Sales & Service Technician
Alfonso "Al" Guzman
McAllen

Al has been in the fitness industry for over 30 years, joining HEST in 1993. Certified by the Precor Service Team in cardiovascular equipment, Al knows the ins and outs of the business better than anyone.

Roland Untalan
Fitness Consultant & Lead Service Technician
Roland Untalan
San Antonio

A US Marine Corps and Army Reserve veteran who served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Okinawa. Since joining HEST in 2012, Roland has excelled in dual roles as lead service technician and commercial & retail fitness sales consultant.

Visit Us Today

Come Meet the Team

Stop by any of our three Texas showrooms for a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our fitness experts.