It's been quite some time since I've last shared on this platform, but as of late, there's been a growing desire within me to not only exhibit more of my work but also to shine a spotlight on the remarkable endeavors of my clients. Their journeys are a wellspring of inspiration, and I'm eager to bring their stories to the forefront. One such story is that of Gretchen and Jeff at Fuel Wellness Studio. Since 2018, I've had the honor of capturing the essence of their gym through my lens. The profound impact they have on transforming lives has deeply moved me, sparking a curiosity to delve into the origins of their incredible journey. I had the opportunity to ask Jeff a few questions and this is what we discussed.
What inspired you both to start your own gym and how does your background in fitness and wellness contribute to your approach?
We ended up starting our own business kind of interestingly… It all began with a simple realization, we couldn’t find anyone who shared our vision of a holistic wellness studio that emphasized strength training tailored to individual goals. With Gretchen’s background in social work and mine in corrective exercise (thanks to too many sports injuries), we decided to combine our talent and passion. That's how Fuel Strength and Wellness Studio, was born.
In what ways do you believe your gym stands out from larger fitness chains, and how do you maintain a sense of community within your space?
What we’re super proud of at Fuel is our take on small group coaching. Imagine this, a place where everyone’s working on their unique programs, tailored to their goals, history, and needs. No competition, just pure support and a vibrant community vibe. It’s all about customizing the experience to fit the individual. It’s not a competition it’s not a class, it’s people helping each other and honestly, it feels like magic. The community is really awesome.
Can you share some of the unique challenges you've faced as a small, family-owned gym, and how you've overcome them?
I would say that the challenges of working together are as anyone would expect, but I personally feel pretty grateful that my business partner is the person that I’m with, and I actually really enjoy working with her and seeing her at the studio.
How do you tailor your fitness programs and classes to meet the diverse needs of your members while maintaining a personal touch?
Our approach is thorough, every new face at Fuel goes through a comprehensive assessment. We’re talking about a 50-point check (which includes functional testing, and orthopedic testing) that dives deep into fitness and injury history, setting the stage for a program that’s as unique as the individual. It’s all about keeping it safe, personal, and on target.
With the rise of digital fitness platforms, how do you keep your gym relevant and engaging for members who have access to virtual training options?
At Fuel, we don’t do cookie-cutter. Everything is 100% customized, based on rigorous testing and personal insights. It’s about meeting you where you are and guiding you to where you want to be. Each plan is meticulously crafted, grounded in assessments that cater specifically to your needs, both present and future. The insights we gather enable us to construct a personalized plan that is distinctively yours, something unattainable without our bespoke touch.
How does your gym cater to individuals with diverse fitness goals and abilities?
We believe in teamwork, not just within our studio walls but with our clients' healthcare providers too. It’s about creating a cohesive strategy that addresses every aspect of wellness and fitness.
Can you discuss any memorable success stories or transformations among your members that exemplify the impact of your gym on their lives?
I think some of the most memorable experiences our memories I have with clients through success. Yes, we have weight loss transformations, which is always great. It’s seeing clients overcome pain, rediscover their mobility, and reignite their zest for life. It’s about unlocking the freedom to enjoy simple pleasures, like playing golf or spending quality time with their kids.
How do you foster a sense of accountability and support among members to help them achieve their fitness goals?
I believe the key to client accountability lies in having a supportive team that truly grasps their fitness aspirations and requirements. My approach involves not only cultivating a strong rapport with clients but also deeply understanding their unique goals. These objectives are not dictated by societal norms or preconceived notions of appearance. Instead, they are about identifying what each client personally needs to feel fulfilled and successful. Breaking free from the conventional mold is what ultimately motivates people to improve and strive for betterment.
As a husband and wife team, how do you balance the demands of running a business together with maintaining a healthy personal relationship?
I would love to say we’re good at that, but we run a business together and any business owner knows the business first luckily for us we actually enjoy what we do. We enjoy spending time together, and I know for myself personally, I feel super fortunate to be in the position. I’m in with the partner I have she’s amazing.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the future of your gym, and how do you plan to continue growing and evolving while staying true to your core values?
I think that for the future of Fuel, the biggest thing I’m looking for and working toward is making sure my team is strong so they can build a better relationship with clients and help take over more of the day-to-day for the gym. This allows me to work with clients more on a one-on-one basis to make sure that I am helping them as much as I can to reach their goals or things that they need to achieve whatever their goals are to be truly happy.
Spending time with my clients always brings joy into my workday, and capturing Jeff and Gretchen at Fuel has been no exception. Their energy and dedication motivate and inspire me. If you're in the market for a gym that prioritizes personalized fitness paths or seeking guidance to achieve your health goals, I wholeheartedly suggest Fuel in Clayton. It's a decision that might just redefine your fitness journey. Thank you for joining me on this adventure, and until next time, stay inspired and keep pushing your limits!
Best!
Iris
