Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Travis Gil, founder of Fitness Artist, located in Clifton Park, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I’m Travis Gil, founder of Fitness Artist and Work Force Strong. We work with all walks of life. Our team inspires others to become the best version of themselves through motivation, fitness, nutrition, and injury prevention.
We have 2 Divisions of Fitness Artist:
• Physical location - private training facility in Clifton Park, NY. We offer one-on-one, small group, and larger group classes and nutrition coaching, all in a non-intimidating environment. Each client receives customized programming tailored to their individual goals and limitations. Most Box Gyms can be intimidating, especially for those who are not used to going to the gym at an early age. We developed a private facility that eliminates the intimidation factor and fosters an “open arms” environment. Our programs are not typical “cookie cutter” workouts and involve diverse exercise modalities, including sleds, kettlebells, dumbbells, battle ropes, etc.
• Offsite training - our Work Force Strong Program provides strategic training services and injury prevention programs to commercial and government organizations. Our services are designed and developed to incorporate wellness in organizations to increase employees' potential and contributions by preventing injuries, reducing absenteeism, increasing productivity, increasing engagement, and creating unity among workers.
There is a huge need and a major void to be filled in all workplace environments. The world is out of shape, moves poorly, and is suffering from chronic physical pain on a daily basis. Also, WFS went against the grain and customized a proactive approach to safety and injury prevention. The safety programs that other companies offer are very outdated and rarely generate participation from employees. WFS has created a dynamic and fully-customized program to fit exactly what your employees need.
Tell us about yourself
I have a genuine desire to elevate one's beliefs about themselves and their physical abilities. Most of the world is sick and depressed. I wanted to be that shining light for the world. My family motivates me every day to push when I’m tired. I want to provide the best life for my kids.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Bigger doesn't mean better. My biggest accomplishment thus far was trimming the fat, no pun intended. I once had 3 locations and ran 2 off-site programs. I was literally running around like a chicken with my head cut off. The extra money earned was not worth it. I felt the product I wanted to put my name on was being diluted, and I couldn't find any balance in my life. I also couldn't maximize efficiency. In order to do so, I narrowed it down to one physical location in addition to a few off-site programs.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Balance. Finding the balance between running a successful business to being an exceptional husband, father, and friend. Too much of one thing is never great because things around you may suffer. I am always telling myself to be present, especially with my family, and it's vital to being a great role model for my kids.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Passion- Make sure you have a passion for your business rather than a money grab.
- Work Ethic- Are you willing to work 24hrs around the clock, not necessarily physically but mentally.
- Letting Go- Don’t sweat the small stuff and place the right people in the right seats. It’s important to trust the team you craft together and create efficient systems.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
It sounds a bit corny, but…you really can accomplish anything you set your mind to. It doesn't matter your past struggles or the many obstacles you faced growing up. Having been through hell, I found that struggle actually helped me grow a thick skin and readied me to face any storm thrown my way.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.fitness-artist.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FitnessArtist
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitnessartistsculpting/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fitnessartist/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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