Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sarah Marchington, owner of Pole Fitness Academy, located in Ottawa, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Pole Fitness Academy is a pole and aerial, dance and fitness studio that honours and acknowledges the roots of the industry and caters to all who wish to try a new hobby or that are looking for a supportive environment to train in. Everyone is welcome! No dance or fitness background is required.
Tell us about yourself
Pole has been a passion of mine since I first started in 2012. At the time, I was very shy and reserved and found that pole gave me confidence in myself and in my body. Not only is it a wonderful way to express yourself and build strength, but you also get to meet a lot of wonderful and encouraging people along the way! When the opportunity to own a business like Pole Fitness Academy presented itself, I knew that I wanted to work hard toward providing a nurturing and supportive space for anyone that may be intrigued to try poles and/or aerials or for those that wish; to train and master their craft! Seeing people enjoy themselves and excel is really what motivates me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is being able to offer a safe and welcoming space for PFA’s wonderful team of admins, instructors, and to our current clients that take classes or partake in any activity offered at the studio.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Unexpected setbacks or financial situations that are out of your control. The last few years, in particular, have been tough for gyms and dance studios, but the continued support and patience from those who’ve continued taking classes has really left me feeling incredibly grateful and excited for the future!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- I would say being very organized and having a clear view of all the daily/weekly/monthly tasks that need to get done is important while making sure that you give yourself downtime to enjoy life along the way to avoid potential burnout.
- If you offer services that cater to a broad range of clients, I think it’s important not to take anything personal and just to keep trying to offer the best quality of services that you can. All types of reviews are opportunities to evolve as a business and as a business owner.
- Hire people that you trust, and that will maintain the kind of environment you want to offer to your clients. Making sure you treat your employees the way you’d like to be treated in a professional setting is important because kindness and support will only create a positive and thriving atmosphere.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.polefitnessacademy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Polefitnessacademyottawa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polefitnessacademyottawa/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PFAOttawa
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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