Black-Lights to Bangin’ Tunes

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Megan Wenstrup, Owner of Heights Cycle, located in Palos Heights, IL, USA.

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

Heights Cycle is a local, independent Indoor Cycling studio. We ride stationary bikes under black lights with the music turned UP. We want every visitor to leave feeling better than when they arrived. We offer a safe, effective workout that is accessible to all ages, body types, and fitness levels.

Tell us about yourself

I started working out consistently after a fully-lived 4-year college experience. When my kids came along, I wanted to find work that would allow me the flexibility to remain as the primary parent at home when they were home, which led me to follow my passion and become a group fitness instructor and personal trainer. I'd always enjoyed Indoor Cycling, but it was after the first rhythm-based class that I decided that this format was something special and something I wanted to do for a living. Owning my own studio was always the goal from Day 1. After about 11 years and a few failed attempts, I have finally accomplished what I set out to do.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I bought an existing business that was selling deeply discounted class packs. I changed the business model to a membership-based model. The existing clientele was skeptical, but I was able to win them over and convert over 75 percent of those riders into members.

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

Personnel issues are always hard. It's never pleasant to see someone underperform and then cut ties. It never gets easier.

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

Fasten your seat belt! You are at the start of one crazy ride!
Hustle, get creative, and stay focused. It WILL work if you do.
"Look for the helpers." This is a quote from Fred Rogers, which another entrepreneur shared with me. I will never cease to be amazed by the people who just "show up," who want to support me, and who genuinely want me to succeed with no strings attached. It's quite humbling.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.heightscycle.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Heightscycle
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heightscycle/

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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