Katie and Steve Kissinger of Saratoga Springs are crushing Hit in their first month as owners! From the start up, to the community, to the workout itself, read on to hear how this dynamic duo got into franchising, why they chose 30 Minute Hit, and what the experience has been like so far.
What kind of work were you doing prior to opening your 30 Minute Hit?
Katie and I both work full-time. She is a Nurse Practitioner and I am a Program Manager in the Renewable Energy space.
Why franchising?
Due to the fact that we both have full-time jobs (and two young children), we were drawn to the idea of having an existing playbook ready to follow. We did not have time to build a brand from the ground up.
Did you look at multiple brands? What made you decide on the 30 Minute Hit?
Yes, we went through the discovery process with several franchises over the course of many months. Multiple factors drew us to 30 Minute Hit. The relatively low start-up cost, overhead, and potential ROI is enough to catch anyone’s eye. But when you dig into the brand, the workout, and the community 30 Minute Hit sets itself apart. While we weren’t specifically looking to open a fitness studio, this type of business resonated with us and fit into our lifestyle and beliefs compared to other franchises.
How long have you been open and how is it going so far?
We have been open for almost a month and the response from the community has been extremely positive. We were able to fill a gap for many women that wanted a kickboxing or boxing workout. Even members who have been part of other kickboxing gyms say that they have never experienced a workout like 30 Minute Hit.
What has been your favorite part so far?
The members. It has been extremely rewarding to see how our members have grown in such a short time. Women who have never set foot in a gym or hit a heavy bag have quickly improved their cardio capabilities, boxing skills, and in many cases boosted their confidence.
Have there been things that you’re finding to be rewarding or more fun than you thought, that maybe you hadn’t expected?
Being at the Hit in general. Watching our staff and members grow individually and seeing a community take shape. I have also enjoyed being on the floor as a Trainer, especially in the beginning to help set an example for our Staff. When I am on the floor the members know they are going to get an extra sweaty workout.
How has your training and support been throughout the process?
We were both absolute beginners when we started this journey. We had never owned a business or put on a pair of boxing gloves. Our onboarder brought us through the entire process leading up to our opening. From real estate, permits, insurance, construction, hiring, and marketing. And the training team made sure we were competent and ready to train our staff as well as our members.
What are your plans in terms of growth for the future – are you considering owning multiple locations?
Yes, our plan from the beginning has been to open another location. After getting this location under our belts it definitely makes sense to build on that experience. We have already had several members and potential clients ask when and where we will be opening other locations.
What advice would you give to others considering becoming a 30 Minute Hit franchisee?
Do your homework. On the surface, you might not think your community needs or can support “another gym.” But 30 Minute Hit is different. It provides women in your community a unique service they have likely never experienced at a great value. Ask yourself if you want to just sell widgets or if you want to own a business that will have an impact on people. If you are not personally invested and don’t truly want to be there, your members will pick up on that and act accordingly. So make sure it is something that you want to engage in. Talk to other owners about their experience. Finally, look at the numbers and make sure they work for you.
Anything else you’d like to add about the experience?
We would like to thank the founders, Jackson and Deanna as well as the amazing team they have built, for this opportunity. Owning a 30 Minute Hit can be a life changing experience for those willing to put in the effort.
Huge thanks to Katie and Steve for taking the time to share their experience with us.
Be sure to follow the Saratoga Springs Hit on your favorite social media platforms to watch their growth, and how they are changing the lives of the women of their community, one punch at a time!
-Kristi
Here we Grow again!
