Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Samantha Keenan, owner of Force Fitness CT, located in Ellington, CT, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Force Fitness is a studio gym offering large group classes, including total body strength training, metabolic conditioning, HIIT, and circuit formats Monday-Saturday. Our experienced certified coaches will be there every step of the way, celebrating every time you reach the next level. From experienced athletes to newcomers wanting to learn more, we make it our top priority to foster a spirit of inclusiveness that sets us apart from other gyms. Our customers are anyone looking for a great workout.
Tell us about yourself
My early work was in nonprofits and fitness, but prior to starting Force, I worked as an IT project manager. The pandemic motivated me to get back into coaching because I quickly learned through social distancing how important fitness and social interaction are to a person's mental health. I went back into training part-time at a small local gym which I would eventually take over under my new brand Force Fitness in November 2022.
I founded Force Fitness with a mission to build a fitness community that strives to help every person find a higher quality of life through greater health. We accomplish this at Force by offering a program with awesome workouts that everyone can do, whether they are new to fitness or elite athletes. Our gym is unique because our members are truly a tight-knit community and a place where great friendships are built. At Force, you can count on our coaches and members being there to cheer you on each step of the way in your fitness journey.
As an owner, I am motivated each day, knowing that our gym provides not only great workouts but also a welcoming place for my community to connect and socialize in a healthy way.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment so far has been the team of coaches that have been built over the last four months. Our coaches are all certified, experienced trainers and overall wonderful people whom our members enjoy working with each class.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is time management. I am the owner and also a coach, so I spend a lot of time at Force.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Build a team that is trustworthy and reliable. It's ok to take your time during the hiring process in order to make sure you find someone who is the right fit for your business.
- Get involved in the community as much as possible through events and sponsorships. That is the best way to increase local brand awareness.
- Make sure your website/app is user-friendly. All customers are going to visit your page, and if they can't easily access the information, they will move on to another business that is more user-friendly.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.forcefitnessct.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forcefitnessct/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ForceFitnessCT/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/force-fitness-ct/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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