Professional athletics can end in an instant, but sometimes those endings become the most meaningful beginnings. Pete’s journey from aspiring motocross competitor to fitness entrepreneur illustrates how setbacks can redirect passion toward greater purpose. Two accidents that shattered his racing dreams eventually led to the creation of FitStop, a fitness concept that has grown from humble garage beginnings to 166 locations spanning four countries.

The brand’s American expansion illustrates the maturation of a training methodology that bridges high-performance athletics with accessible community fitness. Rebecca Hull, co-founder and International Franchise Recruitment Manager, brings expertise that shapes franchise selection and member experience at locations including the Santa Monica flagship studio.

FitStop’s Foundation and Philosophy

FitStop operates on a strength and conditioning foundation built around 12-week periodized programming. The concept originated when Pete’s dual motocross accidents forced him to abandon his professional athletic aspirations, leading him to a rehabilitation journey connecting him with passionate fitness professionals. Inspired by a trainer who devoted himself to Pete’s recovery, Pete began studying fitness and training athletes he knew from his parents’ garage.

The garage-based training sessions sparked the vision for a proper gym. Rebecca sold her Toyota Corolla to set up their first location in 2013, and within six months, they grew from 20 members to 130. Their first year generated $70,000 in revenue, validating Pete’s mission to impact as many lives as possible by allowing everyday athletes to join a community focused on getting stronger and living more fulfilling lives.

The brand’s systematic approach includes dedication to every aspect of the member experience. Each station features television screens displaying proper movement patterns and technique cues, ensuring consistent instruction regardless of which trainer is leading the session. After four years and the opening of their second location, they transformed FitStop into a franchise model that became recognized as Australia’s fastest-growing fitness brand.

The brand’s multifunctional programming combining high-intensity training with strength components positions FitStop particularly well for the growing competitive fitness movement. HYROX and similar competition formats have gained significant traction, with Australia recently hosting a challenge that attracted 10,000 participants. Among these competitors, 1,500 chose FitStop for their preparation, demonstrating how the brand’s training methodology aligns with the demands of functional fitness competitions. This competitive preparation aspect adds another dimension to FitStop’s appeal for members seeking performance-oriented training within a community setting.

Job and Franchise Opportunities

FitStop’s expansion into the American market presents opportunities across multiple career paths. The brand actively seeks fitness professionals who understand the importance of methodical programming and community building. Trainers at FitStop locations receive comprehensive support in delivering the periodized training model, with detailed instruction protocols and ongoing education to ensure consistency across all locations. Job opportunities are currently available in Marketplace by Coach360. 

Rebecca’s background in professional recruitment brings unique insight to franchise partner selection. Her experience in career transitions and talent placement has shaped FitStop’s approach to identifying successful franchise candidates. The brand focuses on creating sustainable business models that allow franchise owners to build wealth through multi-unit operations while maintaining the community-centered atmosphere that defines the FitStop experience.

The franchise opportunity attracts three distinct profiles of successful owners. Studio managers looking to advance beyond employee roles represent the first category—professionals who understand leadership dynamics and operational systems. The second group is former corporate executives seeking meaningful career transitions, bringing business acumen and implementation experience to their studios. The third successful profile includes former athletes who leverage their competitive discipline and high-performance mindset to build thriving fitness communities.

Rebecca emphasizes that franchise success stems from understanding the business and community aspects of studio ownership. Multi-unit opportunities particularly appeal to entrepreneurs seeking to build substantial operations across California, Texas, and East Coast markets. The brand provides comprehensive business support, including training systems, operational guidance, and ongoing coaching to help franchise partners transition from corporate careers to fitness entrepreneurship.

During my visit to the Santa Monica location, I experienced firsthand how FitStop’s approach translates to an exceptional member experience. Trainer Semaj Walker exemplified the brand’s commitment to individual attention within a group setting, providing detailed instruction and moving between stations to offer encouragement and form corrections during heavy lifts and accessory work. 

The workout proved challenging yet accessible, with the television displays at each station providing clear movement demonstrations that complemented Semaj’s hands-on coaching approach. The welcoming atmosphere and well-structured programming created an environment where newcomers to the brand like myself and experienced particupants could push their limits safely and effectively.

Final Thoughts

As more people recognize the benefits of resistance training for longevity, bone density, and overall health, the brand’s approach to strength and conditioning as well as community positions it at the forefront of the future of fitness. The recent HYROX competition that drew 10,000 participants in Australia, saw 1,500 athletes who chose FitStop for their training, demonstrates the growing appetite for community-based strength programming.

FitStop’s franchise model recognizes this parallel, creating opportunities for professionals to build meaningful businesses while contributing to their communities’ health and wellness. The brand’s emphasis on multi-unit development and wealth creation through operations reflects a mature understanding of what entrepreneurs seek when making significant career pivots.

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.