Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ryan Taylor, Founder of Tailored Strength, located in Chicago, IL, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Tailored Strength is a personal (1:1) and semi-private (2-8/group) training facility located in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago. We emphasize strength training through the use of the barbell and kettlebells, with the integration of a plethora of other tools (medicine balls, dumbbells, sleds, and suspension trainers) to deliver a unique training experience. No matter what the size of the group, expect a tailored workout based on your individual movement screening, built to improve any movement limitations and smash through goals! All this, and a STRONG community to work and help alongside the whole way.

Tell us about yourself

I started working in the fitness industry in 2005 at the YMCA. I then attended Kansas State University and graduated with a dual bachelors in both Kinesiology as well as Human Nutrition. This has been my life for as long as I can remember! The impact that a trainer can have on a person is unmatched and is one of the most intimate, unique, and powerful relationships of any service. The changes that clients have throughout their journeys (whatever it happens to be), inside and out, are incredible, and to be part of something so powerful is something that I hold very near and dear. This is an amazing profession, and I can't get enough of it!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been the continued growth of our space. It was a very risky start, especially with COVID only about 1 year after opening, but we have continued to grow and support our strong community each and every year. It's very rewarding and fun to work on plans for continued growth and offerings we can make to help our clients and members.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

The hardest things about being a business owner are the risk and the continued head space that the business stays in 24/7. To be an entrepreneur, especially a client-facing small business, takes a toll on the mind. The seeming bills, client experience, day-to-day fires that need to be tended to, marketing, outreach, and facility maintenance are a ton of hats a small business owner needs to wear interchangeably each and every day! It's a labor of love for many of the tasks, but it's all worth it!

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Get a TEAM. An accountant is first and foremost. This takes a ton off your plate and into a professional. I would also have a lawyer available, as well as a business coach or group to work through issues with.
  2. Don't move too fast. In this industry, lack of experience can show. Spend a few years just training clients and honing in on your craft, attend all the seminars and workshops you can, and get in front of as many clients as you can. It will pay you back hugely in the long term.
  3. Know your Finances. Know what your numbers are and your KPIs (key predicting indicators), and know them well. These can steer your business in the right direction and show you where the leaks are. Set up retirement accounts early; as a small business owner, this can be daunting (get an accountant to help!) but essential. Educate yourself as much as you can about what options are available to you as a business owner; it matters!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.tailoredstrength.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tailoredstrength/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tailoredstrength/

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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