Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fitness and sports but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Doug Baumgarten, Owner of Sportfit Consulting LLC, located in Leesburg, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Sportfit Consulting consists of three key services: triathlon training/coaching, bike seat testing, and sales, and expert witness consulting for litigation. Therefore, we attract triathletes and cyclists as our core customers but also consult to attorneys on litigation involving fitness and sports.
Tell us about yourself
I have always been involved in fitness and sports as an athlete, personal trainer, sports official, and entrepreneur. I started as a personal trainer, then continued to build my expertise through continuing education, including a Master's Degree in Exercise Science. Eventually, I was able to hire additional trainers and then establish training centers in 15 different locations. After selling my interest in that business, I moved into the triathlon and cycling field, in which my wife was a successful athlete. My love for sports keeps me motivated to help others learn how to achieve health, fitness, and whatever their sports goals are.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I hope I've been able to help thousands of athletes, and non-athletes, improve their fitness and engage in sports successfully without injuries.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I always say I have the toughest boss in the world -- me! When you own your business, you live it 24 hours a day. With no "paid vacation" or benefits, you have to make sure to take care of your own well-being and your family.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Get help for areas where you don't have expertise: accounting, legal, etc. If your business isn't set up properly and legally, you'll pay for it later.
- Be prepared for ups and downs: don't assume a successful quarter (or year) will be repeated forever. Keep money in reserve for slow times, family emergencies, etc.
- You'd better LOVE what you're doing because it will require a huge commitment of time and energy.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.sportfit-lab.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SportfitLab/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sportfitlab
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-baumgarten-b26676/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.
