About Ray & Built Tuff

Who is Ray Arde?

As owner of Ray’s Built Tuff Gym, Ray Arde prides himself on client and members referring to Built Tuff as the “Cheers of the fitness industry where everybody knows each other’s name and everybody helps each other.” Ray’s dedication to health and fitness goes beyond the doors of his gym.  Ray is very passionate about reaching out to youth from abusive situations in an effort to help them find their internal strength.

Ray has always had a passion for sports, in particular football.  Ray had dreams of becoming a professional football player.  While playing football, Ray decided to start training with weights because he wanted to impress the girls. Not only did Ray impress the girls, but he also impressed the judges at his third bodybuilding competition in 1991 winning the Teen Mr. San Jose Bodybuilding Championship. With his developing passion, sweat, hard work, and dreams of becoming the one of the best bodybuilders, football took a backseat to bodybuilding.

Word quickly spread to the Philippines recognizing Ray as the 1st Filipino IFBB PRO BODYBUILDER. In February 2006, Governor Chavit Singson had Ray personally flown to the Philippines where he was greeted by a parade given in his honor.  Ray was also honored at a Meeting in a Town Hall where he was given a “Certificate of Recognition” awarded by the Mayor, Governor and other local politicians.

Friends and family continue to be inspired by Ray and his ongoing dedication to improve himself physically, mentally, personally and professionally.  Ray’s dedication led him to his ultimate goal of competing on the Olympia stage October 2008.

What is at Built Tuff?

• Cardio machines - ellipticals and treadmills
• Free weights & kettlebells
• Cable machines
• Weight machines
• Open green for running
• Plyometic equipment
• Sports training equipment
• Aerobics room