Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tina Ramos, Owner of CrossFit Boston Iron & Grit, located in West Roxbury, MA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own a CrossFit gym. We help people who want to live a healthy lifestyle. We have a diverse group of people from all professional backgrounds and various ages. Our members tend to be in their 30s, 40s, and 50s and are looking to live an optimal life full of avidity and vitality.
Tell us about yourself
I was introduced to CrossFit in 2010 by my trainer. I was looking to change careers out of secondary education, and I wanted to become a trainer. I had no idea about CrossFit, but once I tried it, I was hooked. I get excited when I see our members improving and having fun. When I can teach someone in their 50s to climb a rope, I get excited for them. It's never too late to start learning a new sport, and in my CrossFit gym, I make sure everyone is progressing and having fun!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am inclined to say surviving the pandemic; however, I think my biggest accomplishment was creating a community of people who care about inner-city youth. Each year as a community, we raise funds for an organization in Boston that helps middle school students. I put my education background and fitness training background to help create a fun competition to raise funds called BEAT The Streets. This has been a wonderful program and has helped to create opportunities for children in Boston.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
You can never slow down, and you have to keep evolving with each crisis. Realizing you will make mistakes and learning from them is important if the business is going to be profitable.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
The same advice I received from my mentor:
- Don't get overwhelmed by the enormity of opening your own business. Take it one step at a time.
- Have a financial plan and save a little each month in case there is a downturn. This little savings each month helped me during the pandemic shutdown.
- Pay your team for the good work they do. They are your biggest asset, and a strong team will make a sustainable and profitable business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://crossfitbostonirongrit.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crossfitbostonirongrit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossfitbostonirongrit/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CFIronGrit
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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