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Why Small Businesses Matter
Shop small, do big things for your community
Why Small Businesses Matter puts a spotlight on the local merchants who donate their time, talent, goods, and services for the betterment of our community. The shop local movement spreads virally as local businesses who are “tagged” have the opportunity to share their story!
You're IT Steel Fitness!
Four questions with Ari Karp, founder of Steel Fitness.
Why did you start your business?
I started my business because I have always found it both rewarding and satisfying to help people move well. Seeing their excitement when someone hits a new personal record or touches their toes for the first time is the greatest feeling. I thought to myself, "How can I turn this feeling into a lucrative career because our field can be tough to make a living with?" So Steel Fitness was born. I had experience working in some partnerships in the past but I wanted to solely control my own time and income so I went off on my own. Steel fitness allows me to grow and thrive in all directions. Now, I can grow my business while still putting focus on my family and I can thrive and grow in all directions.
As the business has grown, so have I. My health, the time I get with my family, and the passion I have for my clients and fellow trainers continue to develop positively. The more experience I’ve gained, the more it has helped me to develop my training philosophies and hone my skills. During my 19 years of being a personal trainer and strength and conditioning coach, I have been able to develop a successful style and strategies that continue to help propel my business forward.
What is your best-selling product/service?
My bestselling, most popular service I offer is hands down our Functional Strength sessions. They are always done in small groups (up to 10) where we work on the foundational movements of fitness and grow upon them.
How many local businesses do you use to support your business (products and services) and can you name them?
I support many small local businesses. From having Parma Deli and A2 salon right next door and working together, along with our cross promotions, we’re always encouraging clients to shop local.
Have you "reimagined" your small business?
I have reimagined my business many times. Being a small business owner is hard so it’s in my best interest to work smarter, not harder. In other words, I’m always researching and developing new fitness programs for the members of Steel Fitness. I want to always ensure that I am helping them to achieve the results that they are working hard for. There never is or will be a time when I'll say, “Yup this is good enough, let’s just stay here”. We are always looking for forward momentum at Steel Fitness and continual growth and development.
Steel Fitness is located at 62 Danbury Road in Ridgefield. Visit Steel Fitness online here, and make sure to check out their Facebook, and Instagram pages as well!
HamletHub thanks Fairfield County Bank for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!
