Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health & fitness, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tim Caron, co-founder of Allegiate, based in Los Angeles, California, USA. Tim is also a decorated strength and conditioning coach.
Tell us all about your business...
Group-Based Strength Training. My background is working in college athletics. The huge problem was that when my athletes completed their time with me, they had nowhere to go. Essentially the commercial fitness industry failed them. Two athletes I coached, and I got together and looked to solve that problem. We opened Allegiate in 2017 and sought to create a home where former athletes, high-level fitness enthusiasts, and people with a growth mindset can train all year-round. We have grown to a second facility and have a third one on the way in 2022. We thought there was a gap in the market that was underserving high-quality strength training to people. We were correct in that assumption, but we did not anticipate that people, in general, want a professional, high-quality, and consistent training environment to call home.
What's your background and motivation to grow as an entrepreneur?
I have been lifting weights for over 25years, so strength training has been a massive part of my life for some time now. I went to school for math, which I earned a degree in. However, I was pulled back into Strength and Conditioning and went back for a second Bachelors's degree in Movement Science. I used my experience and started my strength and conditioning career at my hometown high school, which led to interning at Velocity Sports Performance, Harvard University, and Georgia Tech. After Georgia Tech, I obtained my Masters's Degree from Springfield College and then interned at Ole Miss University. I got my first full-time Strength and Conditioning job at Georgia Tech, which I obtained a second master's degree in Performance Enhancement and Injury Prevention. I became Associate coach at the University of Southern California and then Headed Strength and Conditioning Coach at Army West Point. I worked over 10years as a college Strength and Conditioning Coach before getting with my two business partners to open Allegiant.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Staying Open. Statistically speaking, first-time businesses fail. Odds are even more stacked against us in a service-based industry that relies on in-person interaction during a pandemic. The sector was screaming go online, which I did not want to do, and two felt was an inferior method of helping people. We were able to stay open with lockdown, business restrictions, and countless problems. Serving people in the form of members and our staff is fundamental to being a service-based business. We constantly need to build these relationships that help people grow and develop into their best physical, mental, and emotional states. Aside from staying open, I would say the countless stories of assisting people have been most influential.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being an entrepreneur?
I like the challenge; I like the creative aspect; I tend not to look at things as hard, just opportunities. It may seem corny, but I find too many people dwell on things that are challenging. We created something from nothing. We are making this up as we go; of course, people will not take it immediately at face value or accept what you are saying as gospel. Putting in the work and staying consistent with that purpose will always be challenging, but that was the point.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run or grow a small business today?
You must check your ego, become efficient, and commit to the long haul.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Check us out at allegiategym.com. We have two gyms, one in Redondo Beach and the other in Santa Monica. We offer group-based strength classes and private training. All are customized to current levels of movement and tailored to specific goals. We offer a week trial for groups and a complimentary screen/goal setting session for privates.
Where can people find you online?
Website: https://www.allegiategym.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allegiategym/
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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