Fitness franchises have emerged as a powerful and effective avenue for passionate coaches to transition into successful gym ownership. These turnkey business models provide the aspiring entrepreneurs with name and brand recognition, a proven business model, and the blueprints to make it successful. For coaches looking to expand their impact beyond one-on-one sessions or group fitness classes, franchises offer a structured path to success. But, it still requires a lot of hard work and resources.
To make the leap from coach to franchise owner, it is a necessity to have a lot of confidence, knowledge, determination, and hustle. Luckily for Matt Espeut, he was tenacious and courageous enough to want more for himself than living paycheck to paycheck, he wanted to thrive. That determination is what led him to opening a Fit Body Boot Camp franchise location, a model based on 30-min weight loss boot camps designed to support fat loss.
Well, I will always consider myself as a coach, however at this point in my life, I am as much of a coach to my team, as I am to my clients. I always envisioned myself as being a gym owner, but never took action or followed through on my vision until March of 2014. Before that time, I was renting space from a big box gym, and training lots of clients on a weekly basis.
I was by far the busiest trainer there, but I knew I could do more. After approaching the owners several times with program ideas to create more impact, and being overlooked, I decided it was time. I was struggling to make ends meet, and dipping into my savings to survive. My client base had dwindled, and I was back to doing construction part time, to subsidize my income.
In March 2014, I decided I would go out to California and either find work there or get an idea to bring home. When I attended the Fitness Business Summit that month, I found the franchise Fit Body Boot Camp, and loved the concept. I was immediately sold, and the rest is history
As a coach I was a (solo) entrepreneur and worked one on one with clients. I paid rent, wrote appointments in a book (yes, pen and paper), took cash payments, and did zero advertising. When I became a gym owner, I needed to run ads, create systems, hire help and have the capacity to train many people at one time.
My rent went from $650 per month to $4,000 per month. Needless to say, with zero business education and minimal knowledge, the whole concept was a challenge. I opened my doors with 2 members, my dad and neighbor, however with the guidance from HQ and some grit and hard work, I am still standing 10 years later.
The coaching I received from the franchise helped me tremendously. I probably wouldn’t have survived without it. I had coaches and mastermind groups to lean on. They helped me structure my advertising, challenges and systems so I could grow. I knew nothing about how to run ads, but they steered me in the right direction. I still don’t run my own ads, but I have the resources and enough knowledge to know what works and what doesn’t. Fast forward to today, we now have systems and processes in place for client experience and customer retention.
Don’t overestimate what you can accomplish in a week or underestimate what you can accomplish in a year. Building your brand and the know, like and trust factor takes a lot of time. Build it, and they will come is NOT a great business plan. I don’t know a single gym owner that hasn’t experienced setbacks, problems, and adversity, so be prepared for it. I wouldn’t change what I’ve done for anything, as it is a fulfilling and rewarding endeavor, but knowing going in that it won’t be easy. You need to be resilient, and have bounce back ability, because you will get knocked down. Have a plan, and know your numbers. Run on data and not emotion. Let data tell you how well you are doing and not your “feelings”.
I get the most satisfaction from building up my team into high level rock stars. I have been constantly trying to be a better leader, and supply my team with all the tools they need to succeed. We measure success based on the data we receive from members. Are they getting results, staying, paying and referring others. If we are getting members’ results, our attrition is low, and the bank account is growing, then we are succeeding. Success is a benchmark that we will always be chasing, because we will never be satisfied or get complacent. Always grateful, never satisfied
No secret here, just hard work, constant self development and implementation. I am extremely resilient and have bounce back ability. I don’t major in the minors and spend most of my time figuring out ways to grow and move the needle forward. Our core values are simple yet meaningful – Growth minded & grateful / Solution focused to solve problems and We deliver value and drive change. We implement each one of these on a daily basis and that is the compass we follow.
About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.
Marketplace by Coach360 is the leading solution designed to power health and fitness coach careers, simplify the recruitment and hiring process for clubs and studios, and connect consumers to coach-led groups that meet their health and fitness goals —all within a single platform. It was built by coaches, has been tested by coaches, and was approved by coaches as a valuable solution to the fitness industry’s staffing dilemma.
As we celebrate the launch of Marketplace by Coach360, we’re excited to introduce a groundbreaking platform that revolutionizes the way coaches, fitness facilities, and health-conscious individuals connect and thrive. This innovative space addresses the unique challenges faced by each stakeholder in the fitness industry, offering a comprehensive solution that streamlines processes, fosters growth and promotes excellence in health and wellness.
Whether you’re a coach, a studio or gym, or a consumer looking for the right group to join, Marketplace by Coach360 is the solution for your distinct needs. For coaches, it’s a space to create groups, explore continuing education, and find a job within a club or studio. For studios, it’s a space to explore additional education options for your staff and to hire reputable, talented trainers and coaches. Marketplace by Coach360 offers a space for talent to match with opportunity in a synergistic space.
At the heart of the health and wellness industry lies its most valuable asset: the people who lead it. Coaches and trainers are not just service providers but catalysts for transformation, architects of healthier lives, and driving forces behind an ever-evolving industry.
Marketplace by Coach360 recognizes this crucial role and has engineered a platform that elevates the entire fitness ecosystem:
By uniting these key players on a single platform, Marketplace by Coach360 isn’t just filling gaps – it’s creating a robust, interconnected community where success breeds success. We’re setting a new industry standard, one where passion meets opportunity and where everyone – coaches, facilities, and consumers alike – can reach their full potential in health and fitness.
Marketplace by Coach360 is poised to change the fitness industry by creating a dynamic ecosystem that unites talented coaches, forward-thinking facilities, and motivated customers.
This platform is transforming the fitness landscape, creating an adaptive system where passion and opportunity collide and everyone can achieve their full potential in health and fitness.
By providing coaches with career advancement opportunities, facilities with access to top-tier talent, and consumers with expert-led groups tailored to their goals, Marketplace by Coach360 sets a new industry standard. The platform’s ability to connect each piece of the puzzle fills existing gaps and creates a thriving, interconnected community where success breeds further success. As we celebrate the launch, it’s clear that Marketplace by Coach360 is more than just a tool- it’s a catalyst for change in the health and wellness industry, empowering everyone involved to drive industry change.
About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.
From passionate client to pioneering president, Kamille McCollum’s journey with BODYBAR illustrates the impressive power of following one’s instinct and calling. What began as a simple fitness class evolved into a remarkable entrepreneurship success story between a husband and wife duo. With Kamille now serving as President and Chief Brand Officer of a rapidly expanding fitness franchise alongside her husband, Matt, she has grown BODYBAR into a thriving nationwide brand with over 100 territories sold and ambitious expansion plans.
Despite this impressive growth, McCollum’s core philosophy remains unchanged: prioritizing authentic relationships and building genuine communities. Her path from fitness enthusiast to business leader demonstrates how dedication, adaptability, and a focus on human connection can transform careers and lives. Through BODYBAR, she inspires others to discover their potential, whether as a client, instructor, or franchise owner.
Starting as a client, Kamille McCollum initially fell in love with BODYBAR just by showing up to take classes as a patron. What she didn’t realize in that first fateful class was that she would be taking a step forward into fitness and into a business that would change her life forever. With no professional fitness experience, Kamille fell so in love with BODYBAR’s workout that she became an instructor. From there, the snowball effect took charge. Kamille is now a 3 times franchise owner and the President and Chief Brand Officer of BODYBAR.
Alongside her husband, Matt, who serves as CEO, Kamille has worked to create an impressive, inclusive, and welcoming environment in the BODYBAR franchise. As I listened to Kamille, it was apparent her success is well-earned after getting to know the BODYBAR model inside and out, but one thing really stood out to me as we spoke. The prioritization of relationships: building, maintaining, and fostering relationships with everyone who walks through the front door of the BODYBAR studios.
BODYBAR started as a single studio in downtown Dallas, Texas, in 2012. The franchise experience took off when Kamille and her husband saw the potential for the opportunity and took a year to learn the ins and outs of the franchise system. They partnered with BODYBAR in 2019 and sold a few locations before Covid hit. Luckily, Covid didn’t ruin the workouts or the franchises, which Kamille credits to the amazing community and the relationships they had built over the years.
Kamille and her team found that their community wanted to support the studio even during the challenging times of COVID-19. Seventy percent of their members continued to pay membership fees, allowing the club to stay open, teach online classes, and keep the community moving during lockdown. This powerful movement proved that where there is a community, there is support, and together, they made it through a challenging but navigable time.
Pilates workouts will undoubtedly continue to rise in popularity. BODYBAR takes the basic foundations of Pilates and adds components of athletic intensity to create a challenging workout format to increase balance, strength, endurance, and stability.
They rise one step above by prioritizing community and welcoming all, regardless of their background or fitness level. With 104 territories sold, 43 studios currently open, and a goal to hit 100 of those territories up and running by the end of 2025, BODYBAR is growing.
With opportunities to own a franchise popping up, I asked Kamille what advice she has for current or prospective franchise owners.
Kamille shared that the best people suited to be franchise owners are those who started as teachers and have a passion for the brand and community, an understanding of the club, and a passion for teaching with a fire to create more change within the community.
If franchise ownership isn’t for you, but you’re still interested in working with BODYBAR, you can take their 250-hour course. They look for those with solid charisma, entertainment qualities, and a dedication to the BODYBAR way. The great thing about their program is that you can start teaching and making money from the moment you complete the program and test out.
Kamille McCollum’s BODYBAR journey exemplifies how a seemingly innocent choice can evolve into purposeful entrepreneurship. From her first class as a client to her current role as President and CBO, McCollum has transformed a local fitness studio into a nationwide franchise success story. What sets BODYBAR apart isn’t just its innovative blend of Pilates and athletic prowess; it’s the unwavering focus on building authentic relationships and fostering community.
This commitment proved invaluable for a challenging, unknown time like COVID-19 when member loyalty helped sustain the business through the unprecedented challenge. As BODYBAR aims to have 100 studios operational by the end of 2025, McCollum’s leadership philosophy remains rooted in prioritizing genuine connections over mere business transactions. Her story demonstrates that successful franchising isn’t just about following systems (although that is important). It’s about creating spaces where community thrives, and transformation happens inside and out, one relationship at a time.
About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.
Each new generation comes with a different point of view, understanding of the world, and a different way of moving through it. Born between 1997 and 2012, Generation Z was the first generation to grow up with the internet present. This digital native status has shaped their expectations and habits, including how they approach fitness and wellness. Les Mills, a company at the forefront of innovative fitness programming, recognizes the unique needs and preferences of Gen Z in a recent full-length report.
Taking into account the needs and preferences of Gen Z, Les Mills has developed cutting-edge workout experiences that blend technology, social connectivity, and high-energy routines. Their offerings, from immersive virtual classes aimed at building strength to gamified fitness utilizing VR, cater to the tech-savvy, fast-paced lifestyle of the newest gym generation. By embracing digital platforms and creating engaging, community-driven content, Les Mills is ahead of the curve in catering to the health and wellness needs of Gen Z.
Starting as a small gym in Auckland, New Zealand, Les Mills was founded in 1968 by four-time Olympian, Les Mills Senior, and his wife, Colleen. What began as a small gym has evolved into a worldwide fitness brand, recognized for its group fitness programming offered in gyms and fitness centers around the globe.
They offer classes such as:
Although this isn’t an exhaustive list, these are some of the well-loved workouts Les Mills offers to their clients.
Several things about Les Mills set them apart and led to their continued success as a well-recognized and respected name in the industry. Les Mills drops quarterly “innovations”, which is refreshed programming every three months including new music and choreography to keep regular students engaged, excited, and progressive. They also run scientifically-backed programs, collaborating with exercise physiologists and other topic experts to ensure workouts are safe, effective, and geared toward improvement.
As Gen Z starts to take over gym spaces, Les Mills and the rest of the industry have had to focus on meeting the needs of the largest health and wellness generation. Les Mills recently launched a report on Gen Z and how they interact with fitness and the gym space, finding that 50% of Gen Z want a regular fitness routine but need help getting started.
The interest in Gen Z has mostly fallen into a few categories:
Following these trends, “Generation Active” as Gen Z has been fondly nicknamed, it will be imperative for gyms, studios, and fitness spaces to accommodate the needs and desires of Gen Z to continue their interest and pursuit of physical activity. By providing online, strength-based, novel, and community-focused training, the current needs of Gen Z can be met, while continuing to look at the future to improve and diversify offerings.
Generation Z’s unique relationship with technology has transformed their approach to fitness and wellness. Les Mills, recognizing this shift, has adeptly tailored its offerings to meet the needs of this tech-savvy generation. By blending innovative programming, digital platforms, and community-driven classes, Les Mills has positioned itself at the forefront of the evolving fitness landscape to honor the needs of Gen Z.
The company’s focus on strength training, novel experiences, and group fitness aligns perfectly with Gen Z’s preferences, as revealed in their recent report. As “Generation Active” continues to shape the future of fitness, companies like Les Mills that can adapt and innovate will thrive. The fitness industry’s ability to cater to Gen Z’s desire for engaging, varied, and technology-integrated workout experiences will be crucial in fostering long-term health and wellness habits for this generation.
About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.
Women’s health has always been on the backburner when it comes to the health and wellness field. As the industry shifts, grows, and becomes more popular and accessible, the need to take women’s health matters has become more widespread and necessary. One woman saw this need and decided to fill the gap. Introducing Michelle (Mish) Wright.
Mish is a writer, educator, and speaker, equipped with knowledge that the industry desperately needs. While women make up almost exactly half of the world’s population, resources surrounding their health across multiple channels, including fitness, are often ignored or overlooked. Mish takes women’s health and education seriously, and you should, too.
Becoming a trainer or coach in the fitness space allows you to take on a plethora of clients with unique needs. When it comes to training women, there are variables that are worth understanding in order to increase the success of their journey as well as their experience with a trainer and in the gym. Whether it’s working out during menstruation, entering menopause, or training a client who is pregnant, there are several places that women and fitness intersect, and it’s time the industry takes note.
Women’s needs in the fitness realm vary including hormonal fluctuations, the changes experienced during each phase of the menstrual cycle, nutritional needs – particularly noting iron and calcium – as well as the psychological factors that include societal pressure on obtaining a certain physique as well as finding comfort in a space that has predominantly been male-centric for decades.
Mish noticed the gap in education and created courses to educate trainers and coaches on how to work with women and their unique needs through every phase of their life. She is the Director of Education at Women’s Fitness Education and her courses Certificate III and IV in Fitness are available for trainers who are seeking to further their education and expand their expertise.
Michelle Wright is hard to sum up in a short paragraph. She has many roles including writer, educator, speaker, entrepreneur, life-long learner, and a passionate woman advocating on behalf of other women. Her ferocity and dedication to fulfilling her goal of helping women discover the joy and strength in fitness and to make it simple and safe for them is proven through her dedicated work over the years.
When Mish found herself in a life altering position, it was a caring friend’s push to find some sort of exercise together every day that would truly alter Mish’s life for the better. This foray into exercise found her as a fitness instructor and trainer, a business owner, and the creator of the Women’s Health and Fitness Summit. If that wasn’t impressive enough, Mish also created programming specifically for women’s needs to assist trainers and coaches better tend to their female clients.
Although she fills many roles, the creation of her educational content around women’s health, EVEolution™, may be our favorite. This takes a look at topics across six modules meant for trainers and coaches to better serve women. As she states on her website, it’s not that trainers don’t care or want to cater to their female client population, it’s that the education is overall lacking to help trainers approach these topics with a foundation of knowledge.
Whether you’re looking to learn about the foundations of women’s exercise, pelvic floor health and maintenance, the menstrual cycle and how it affects your clients, pregnancy and postnatal care, or how to help clients who are in perimenopause and menopause, Mish has created programming to serve trainers and coaches who want to step up to the bat and help their female clients. This programming is beyond important and is benefitting trainers and women alike across the globe.
In a world where women’s health has often been the afterthought, pioneers like Mish Wright are crucial in shifting the narrative and the spotlight. Her dedication to educating trainers and coaches about the unique needs of womens fitness has made a significant impact. Through her innovative EVEolution™ program and her role as Director of Education at Women’s Fitness Education, Mish empowers professionals to better serve their female clients, ensuring that women everywhere can enjoy a safe and supportive fitness journey.
As the industry continues to shift, it is vital to recognize and address the distinct challenges women face. By embracing comprehensive education and resources, we can create a more inclusive and informed fitness community. Mish’s work is a testament to the change that’s possible when we prioritize women’s health and wellness.
About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.
Eloiza Tecson has accomplished more by age 28 than many will achieve in a lifetime, yet her demeanor portrays none of the pretenses one might expect from such success. She discusses venture capital, multimillion-dollar fundraising, and her meteoric corporate rise with the same easy warmth and authenticity as she might share an anecdote about her day or dog.
Her ability to make complex concepts approachable and digestible is remarkable. She inspires others to pursue their ambitious dreams with renewed confidence. With a strong sense of self, a purpose and passion, an impressive background, and an attitude toward success most would envy, Eloiza is well-equipped to crush any endeavor she undertakes.
Born in the Philippines, Eloiza immigrated to Tennessee with her family in 2000. Despite initially speaking no English, she and her family found their footing in their new home through sports and athletics. This created a pivotal connection between movement and community, setting Eloiza’s path ablaze. Her career trajectory has included impressive work with The PGA Tour and leadership roles at companies like Red Bull, Orange Theory, and Lindora.
She entered venture capital before the age of 25 with no previous experience and found immense success. In the past four years, she has launched new brands, taken on board roles, revitalized companies, advised many companies, and now leads E20 while pursuing her PhD in Organizational Leadership and Global Economy.
E20, her current adventure, represents innovation in the fitness industry through electro-muscular stimulation (EMS) training. The company offers a time-efficient solution for busy individuals seeking to maximize their workout effectiveness. With plans to open her first brick-and-mortar location in the works and subsequent franchising opportunities, Eloiza continues demonstrating her exceptional ability to transform vision into reality.
While many see her glamorous success and Forbes 30 Under 30 recognition, few understand the depth of adversity she has faced due to her age and gender. Rather than letting these challenges defeat her, she has channeled them into academic research on emotional intelligence, applying these insights to her work while championing others starting from a conscious bias within the industry.
Eloiza is a champion for success, and her passion is evident when she shares her advice for coaches and owners who want to find success in the health and wellness space:
Eloiza’s success is awe-inspiring, but I am most impressed by her levelheaded, down-to-earth energy.
At just 28, Eloiza Tecson embodies the rare combination of exceptional achievement and genuine humility. Her journey demonstrates the power of action, emotional intelligence, and unwavering self-determination, from her roots in the Philippines and Tennessee to her current position as a pioneering force in the health and wellness industry. Through E20 and her numerous ventures, she’s transforming the fitness industry and paving the way for future entrepreneurs, particularly women facing similar situations.
What sets Eloiza apart isn’t just her impressive list of accomplishments; it’s her commitment to lifting others as she rises, her ability to maintain authenticity amid success, and her deep understanding that true leadership extends beyond business metrics to touch lives and build communities. As she continues to expand her influence through E20 and her academic pursuits, Eloiza Tecson proves what a visionary leader’s impact can be when combining ambition and empathy.
About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.
Podcasts have rapidly emerged as a vital marketing tool and a dynamic medium for sharing information with a broad audience. They offer a unique platform for brands to engage with listeners in an intimate and authentic manner, fostering deeper connections and brand loyalty. However, many potential creators feel daunted by the perceived complexity of launching a podcast. Concerns about content creation, technical setup, and consistent production can make the process seem overwhelming, deterring some from leveraging this powerful communication channel.
Luckily, Chase Mitchell started Upstarter Podcast, a full-service virtual podcast production and management company that supports brands in building their podcast platform. Chase understands the power that a podcast can bring to marketing a brand and building an audience, and he wanted to make it accessible for anyone running a business to utilize its power. We sat down with Chase to ask him about how Upstarter and podcasts are revolutionizing health and fitness companies.
Upstarter Pods is a virtual podcast production company that guides business owners to greater success using a new marketing funnel that authentically connects with their audience.
We make podcasting easy. People think launching and maintaining a podcast is an overwhelming project. Not with us. Our US based producers & managers take everything off of your plate so that all you need to do is press record. From downloading & uploading files, post-production editing, social media clips, scheduling the show details and more; this entire process can be tedious and lead to burnout when trying to accomplish every week on your own, or continuously coordinate with various VA’s. And when we launch your show, you have a podcast strategist creating & guiding you through a customized content, marketing, & monetization strategy based on your business. So not only will your podcast be made easier, it will also be more effective for growing your brand and business.
Podcasting is a tool for coaches & industry leaders to authentically drive their business, by continuously demonstrating their depth of knowledge to their leads, build valuable relationships and collaborations with guests, consistently present various offers based on your content, and create your primary social media marketing assets through clips of the show.
A podcast can be the hub of your entire marketing funnel. You should be able to use the podcast episode to create all of the marketing assets you need on a weekly basis from social media clips and graphics to go on all platforms, transcriptions for email copy, and website blogs to enhance SEO. As the consumer trends more and more towards audio and easy to consume content, a podcast is becoming more of the perfect evergreen tool that meets people when and where they can consume it, at the gym, on the road, running errands, even at work.
As you drive more leads over time from events, social media, email lists over to the podcast, the episodes can essentially become a natural organic sales call each week that is shared to ALL of your leads and customers at once, saving you countless hours of additional marketing and discovery calls.
For service based industries, like coaches, there’s no better way to build a connection with your target audience. If you can deliver enough value to earn someone’s time of listening to you for 30 minutes every week, you are building such a stronger relationship with that listener than you would than through a few instagram reels.
The way any coach can thrive in their industry and stand out more amongst all of their competition is not by posting more content on social media but by building more valuable and deeper relationships with the least amount of time and effort so you can continue to grow and scale. Record one episode for 30 minutes, and you could connect with and build deeper relationships with hundreds or thousands of consumers all at once.
For your readers, we are making it as easy as ever to get involved. We will take them through our 1-on-1 guided launch package for free ($1,999 value). This includes multiple strategy sessions with me & my team to set up the show for you, host account sites, intro’s, music, trailers, all the equipment and systems you need, and prepare you for launch day to execute the right content, marketing, and monetization strategy for your business. To get in touch, sign up for an Introductory DEMO call here.
Although fitness trends come and go, one entrepreneur has created a lasting impact by focusing on what truly matters to her: empowering women to prioritize self-care. Rachele Jaegers, founder of VFit Studio, discovered her passion for fitness later than she may have seen as “normal”, but this timing proved perfect for launching a meaningful online boutique fitness studio.
VFit Studio isn’t just about workouts; it is proof that the power of community, self-acceptance, and the transformative nature of fitness is accessible to all regardless of where they are at in life. Through her journey from a first time, reluctant 6am class instructor to a successful business owner, Rachele has redefined what it means to build a fitness empire in the digital era, touching the lives of hundreds of women online.
Rachele Jaegers felt like she came into fitness at a later age closing in on 30. She realized in the long run, this timing couldn’t have been more perfect. What was started as something of a personal outlet has become a business, a life calling, and a vessel to change women’s lives. After falling in love with a class at her gym, she got certified, and was thrown in as the 6am class instructor by her normal instructor. Little did she know, starting with those classes would change the trajectory of her life.
Rachele’s passion for her work is evident in everything she does. The profound impact she’s making on women’s lives is both admirable and impressive. She understands the importance of creating a space where women feel empowered, exactly as they are.
“As a coach that’s so important for me to uplift others and see the strength in them. I found fitness not from a place of trying to lose weight, or go on a vacation, I found fitness for the emotional self worth and self confidence.”
Now, over a decade later, Rachele is helping other women find that same sense of self-confidence and worth through VFit Studio. Her journey has come full circle, as she guides others to discover the transformative power of fitness, just as she once did.
Vfit Studio fills a crucial niche in the fitness industry. VFit Studio is a live, online boutique fitness studio that offers fitness classes that encourage women from all walks of life to prioritize self-care. The essence of VFit Studio lives in its simplicity: just show up as you are. Weather you’re juggling diaper changes mid-workout, have kids mimicking your moves, or you showed up in last nights t-shirt and sweats instead of a cool new matching set, VFit Studio welcomes you. It’s about embracing the imperfections in order to best take care of yourself, regardless of life’s other demands.
Rachele started with 20 clients that signed up the first week, and 10 are still members today, almost a decade later. Although she started as the sole trainer, she now employs 12 trainers, has 300 clients across the country, and most importantly, she’s created a supportive community. Retreats, meet-ups, and challenges, are just a few ways she keeps her clients accountable and allows them to meet and connect with other women on similar paths to health and wellness.
Although they have a recorded, on demand library of workouts, Rachele never set out to be a content creator. The studio offers pilates, recovery classes, yoga, barre, cardio, strength. They make sure they hit their four pillars: strength, cardio, mobility, and balance / recovery and they even rotate classes so even their members who only show up at a certain day or time will get all four pillars. What Rachele has built is confirmation that working hard, moving with passion, and creating change can result in amazing things.
When speaking with Rachele, it’s clear she has gathered a lot of wisdom in the last nine years of VFit Studio. Her mission is clear and unwavering and her dedication to helping women take care of themselves is evident. That’s one of the greatest gifts we can find in the coaches and trainers of today, passion and purpose. Rachele shared that one of her biggest pieces of advice is operating a business that doesn’t dwell from a scarcity mindset. She encourages coaches to celebrate their wins where they are at and to stay mindful of future goals without letting it consumer you. “Am I just checking the next milestone? or am I soaking in the difference we’re making?”
Rachele’s best advice for coaches and trainers who want to become entrepreneurs? Just take the next step. We get so focused on having all the right answers that we paralyze ourselves from taking action. We want things to be perfect, but you can never expect the road blocks and lessons you’re going to learn in a business without taking action. Some of her advice included:
Never falter in your step. As long as you’re moving, you will learn what does and doesn’t work, but dwelling on somehting too long only holds you back from making change. Treat entrepreneurship like a child. You may never feel fully ready, but once it is motion, you’ll learn as you go and do the best you can.
Rachele’s story is more than just a tale of entrepreneurial success; it’s a blueprint for aspiring fitness professionals and a light in the dark for women seeking a supportive fitness community. VFit Studio stands as evidence to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to one’s vision.
By creating a space where women can show up as they are, Rachele has built a thriving business and has fostered a movement of self-empowerment and wellness. As VFit Studio continues to grow and inspire, it serves as a reminder that in the fitness industry, the most profound impact forms from creating spaces of genuine connection, understanding, and support. Rachele’s journey proves that with passion and purpose, along with the courage to take the next step, it’s possible to build anything you could dream possible.
Receive a free, week long trial with VFit Studio here! No credit card information or commitment necessary.
Corey Calliet’s journey from postal service worker to celebrity trainer to a celebrity in his own right is a nod to the transformative power of self-belief and artistic vision. Known for his work on blockbuster film sets like Creed and Star Wars and television shows like Revenge Body with Khloé Kardashian, Calliet redefined the role of fitness professional. More than just sculpting bodies, he transforms lives holistically. His multifaceted career now spans training, acting, entrepreneurship, and motivational speaking.
I can attest that sitting down with Corey was a motivational pleasure. Hearing him speak about his success and future plans prepared me to pursue any dream I have ever thought of abandoning. With an unwavering commitment to growth and learning and a willingness to take risks, Calliet has built an empire far beyond training. His story isn’t just about physical transformation; it’s a blueprint for turning ideas into a thriving, diverse career that defies conventional boundaries.
When speaking about entering the space as a celebrity trainer, Corey knew he wanted to do something different. “I wouldn’t consider myself a trainer all the time; I’m an artist.” And an artist he is. If you have seen Creed, Fantastic Four, or Star Wars Episodes VII and VIII, you’ve seen his art at work. Corey had been a personal trainer since 2008, but when he received a call from Hollywood asking for his expertise in body transformation on the set of Fantastic Four, everything would change.
When Corey says he is an artist, he isn’t exaggerating. He found his niche in the industry by going several steps beyond the traditional trainer title. He not only helps his clients transform their body composition but also holistically: body, mind, heart, and spirit.
Now, Corey is a celebrity trainer, actor, entrepreneur, father, and motivational speaker, just to name a few. With plans to open an ACHV Fitness gym in Inglewood next year and acting opportunities advancing, Corey has his plate full of impressive endeavors. His website displays an outstanding array of undertakings, including a streetwear brand, a fitness app, a nonprofit giving back to the community of Los Angeles, and, of course, his training.
Corey didn’t land as a multifaceted talent by accident. He left his secure job at the postal service to pursue training and the often volatile ups and downs that come with it. Why? Because nobody believes in Corey more than himself. When I asked Corey his best advice for coaches and trainers who aspire to break out of the norm, become entrepreneurs, or push the envelope with what they do, he gave me many words of wisdom. First, believe in yourself unwaveringly.
“If you don’t believe in yourself, go get a job. Go work for somebody else. The first lesson to being an entrepreneur is that you’ve got to believe in yourself… you’ve got to be at an all-time high, or you’ll never get anywhere.”
Besides believing in yourself, Corey suggests learning, learning, and then learning more. From every single choice you make or don’t make, there is a lesson to learn. Choosing to become an entrepreneur is one of the hardest things you’ll do, and Corey shared a few thoughts on how to do it successfully:
Calliet’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs in the fitness industry emphasizes the importance of self-belief, continuous learning, and resilience in the face of setbacks. His story illustrates that with determination, adaptability, and a willingness to take action, one can transcend traditional roles and leave whatever hand was dealt to them behind to create a unique path to success.
Corey Calliet’s journey from trainer to celebrity trainer to a celebrity himself proves that his focus on unwavering self-belief, artistic approach to transformation, and entrepreneurial spirit works to achieve anything he can dream up. His multifaceted career – personal training, acting, motivational speaking, and business ventures – showcases the power of thinking beyond traditional limits. Calliet’s success stems from his holistic approach to transformation, addressing not just the physical aspects but the invisible aspects as well.
As Calliet continues to expand his influence through various projects and ventures, he inspires those looking to make their mark in the fitness world and beyond, proving that anything is possible with the right mindset and belief in oneself.
Two concepts, intertwined yet distinct, dance at the heart of human motion: flexibility and mobility. Often mistaken for one another, these fundamental pillars of physical prowess form the bedrock of our functional capabilities. Their intricate interplay significantly impacts injury prevention, performance enhancement, and overall well-being.
Despite their importance, a knowledge gap persists in the proper application of mobility techniques. Many struggle to effectively train and measure progress in these areas. Recognizing this void, innovative entrepreneurs in the health and wellness sector are stepping up to the plate to answer the call for this need. They aim to bridge this gap by offering educational resources, functional training methods, and professional tools to integrate mobility work into regimens designed to build physical function and athletic performance.
In health and wellness terms, flexibility is defined as “the ability of a joint to move through an unrestricted, pain-free range of motion.” While flexibility is important for movement, performance, and overall health and wellness, mobility is just as important. Defined as “the ability to move or walk freely and easily … critical for functioning well and living independently” mobility is all about what you’re able to do with that flexibility.
Flexibility is important for reducing the risk of injury during movement, improving posture, enhancing performance, reducing pain and soreness, and maintaining ability throughout aging. Mobility is important for improving daily functional living, enhancing performance, reducing injury, and contributing to better overall balance, stability, and coordination.
As Bobby Aldridge pointed out to me… while flexibility is about how great your range of motion is, mobility is the ability to move properly within that flexibility. “[Some people] think of mobility as stretching, flexibility, no. Mobility is the joint moving properly.”
Both flexibility and mobility are important for overall function and maintaining quality of life in older aging. They are both crucial components of health and wellness, crucial in how they complement each other. Improving flexibility provides a greater range of motion, while mobility guarantees you can control your movements skillfully and safely within that range of motion. Together, they work to improve movement and function in daily life as well as physical performance.
Luckily, there are a few entrepreneurs concerned with function and mobility that can help you expand your offerings to your clients, and help them function better.
BAMmetrics: Created by Bobby Aldrige, BAMmetrics is a genius solution to the mobility problem so many people face. BAMmetrics allows its users to accurately measure and progress their mobility training in a tangible, straightforward, and refined manner. Great movement starts with great mobility, and BAMmetrics is a complement to any program or athletic training program, rendering that program even more effective. As Bobby shared about the BAMmetrics method, he reminded me, “Functional strength is more important than strength with compensation.”
The genius behind making mobility measurable is understated. Just like any other health indicator, it’s important to track progress with measurable outcomes. Whether it’s tracking how far you’ve come in your program or if you want to train symmetrically across both sides of the body, the BAMmetrics system is designed for accurate, engaging, and simple execution.
Bobby also offers continuing education opportunities to ensure those who want to utilize the BAMmetrics method for their clients do it safely and properly. CEC-accredited, these professional education courses allow coaches and trainers to utilize the metrics-based, data-oriented movement training method in a virtual setting. This provides a solid framework of knowledge and execution for those interested in improving their client’s mobility, function, and athleticism.
Stick Mobility: Stick Mobility came about as a way to build range of motion, coordination, and muscle activation, and to improve overall movement and function. Steve Katai, the Strategy and Operations Consultant at Stick Mobility shared with me the straightforward approach Stick Mobility takes to improving mobility.
What may seem like a simple, passive tool, is a way to engage with mobility, flexibility, strength, and isometric force for greater performance. It requires active movement, and is an incredible innovation that can increase range of motion, prevent injuries, and improve balance and posture.
Whether you’re looking to improve your mobility, you’re a coach, trainer, medical professional, or an athlete, Stick Mobility can improve your and your client’s performance and quality of life. They also offer continuing education courses for those who want to earn CECs and learn the essentials, Level 1, or Level 2 certification; offered in both on-demand and live platforms. Utilized by athletic teams like the Las Vegas Raiders, Cincinnati Bengals, and Denver Nuggets, Stick Mobility is making monumental moves in the mobility market.
The distinction between flexibility and mobility is crucial for optimizing physical function and performance. While flexibility focuses on range of motion, mobility emphasizes the ability to make controlled movements in that range. As awareness grew around the importance of mobility training, innovative solutions like BAMmetircs and Stick Mobility emerged as a way to address this need. These tools offer state-of-the-art approaches to improve mobility, benefiting everyone from everyday individuals to professional athletes.
By incorporating mobility training into fitness regimens, people can enhance overall well-being, reduce injury risk, and improve functional strength. The emphasis on mobility will likely grow, opening new avenues for personal trainers, coaches, and health professionals to serve their clients in a better way and promote long-term physical health.
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