Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey by launching a fitness business but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dan Watt, a personal trainer from Cambridge, Ontario, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a personal fitness trainer who focuses on making sure clients understand how to exercise correctly. I have trained clients with no health concerns to those with many, including diabetes and post physio. My goal is to teach, communicate, and develop realistic programs to help client reach their goals. My focus right now is online training clients, whether they are at home or on business trips.
Tell us about yourself
I started exercise without weights (calisthenics: push-ups, chin-ups, sit-ups) before high school and, in Grade 9, started weight training. I enjoyed discussing practice so much I decided to become an ACE personal trainer in 1998. I am project-oriented, so I like to work with individuals on their goals, whether they want to get fit for a hiking trip or stay healthy.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Keeping clients over many years. This means listening to their goals and concerns and adapting programs so they can continue no matter what life throws at them.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Sometimes clients have to stop training for a while. This could be from illness, operations, finances, and postpartum (I have trained clients through pregnancies). However, I always keep in contact.
What are the top 3 tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Do your research on how much demand there is or increase the need for your product or services. Learn the latest technology or hire someone who knows it so you can advertise and communicate effectively. Believe in the service or product you are offering so the client or customer can sense it.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Stay positive and focused. If you believe in what you are offering, keep trying different ways to promote it until you find what works.
Where can people find you and your business?
Email: dwexercise@gmail.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmhyUduEt3nqVSfdeButFkA
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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