The Bottom Line:
Here is a summary of the main points from the conversation, in the requested format:
- Rodrigo Chan shares his entrepreneurial journey, from starting as a physical education graduate to becoming a successful fitness industry entrepreneur with his company Widu Fit.
- Networking and building strong relationships with clients and partners over the years has been key to Rodrigo’s success and enabled him to launch his own business.
- Innovation is critical for entrepreneurs today, and Rodrigo discusses how he stays on top of trends by attending trade shows in China to source cutting-edge fitness equipment.
- Intrapreneurship – acting like an entrepreneur within someone else’s company – is an important skill and mindset for professionals today, even if they don’t want to start their own business.
- Rodrigo’s company Widu Fit provides turnkey solutions for gyms and fitness centers, from equipment to technology to training, serving clients across Brazil.
The Journey from Physical Education to Entrepreneurship
From Physical Education to Entrepreneurship
Rodrigo Chan’s journey from physical education to successful fitness equipment entrepreneur is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. After graduating with a degree in physical education, Rodrigo initially tried to enter the practical side of the field by giving classes, but quickly realized it wasn’t his passion. He then partnered with a friend to open a gym, which lasted for about five to six years before they decided to part ways due to the limited space.
Expanding Horizons and Gaining Experience
Seeking to expand his knowledge and skill set, Rodrigo pursued specializations in sports administration, marketing, and business management. These additional qualifications proved invaluable as he transitioned from being a gym owner to working in the fitness industry, first with licensing brands for gym programs and later with a company focused on gym equipment.
During his eight years working with the equipment company, Rodrigo gained extensive experience and built a strong network of contacts throughout Brazil. He attended numerous events and trade shows, forging relationships with gym owners and entrepreneurs that would later prove crucial when starting his own business.
Launching WIDU Fit Amidst a Pandemic
In January 2020, just days before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Rodrigo took the leap and founded his own company, WIDU Fit. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, which forced gyms to close and the fitness market to nearly collapse, Rodrigo persevered. He pivoted his business model, offering equipment rentals and online training sessions to help people stay active while quarantined at home.
As restrictions eased and gyms began to reopen, Rodrigo leveraged his industry knowledge and network to help gym owners attract members back with new, innovative equipment. Today, WIDU Fit not only sells equipment but also develops complete projects for gyms of all sizes, offering solutions ranging from architecture and consulting to accessories and technology.
Navigating the Fitness Industry: From Licensing to Equipment
Navigating Licensing and Distribution
Rodrigo Chan’s journey in the fitness industry took him from being a physical education graduate to working with licensing of fitness programs and brands. This experience gave him valuable insights into the broader fitness market beyond just gyms and equipment.
Working with licensing involved selling contracts to gyms, allowing them to use specific branded training programs. The licensing company would train the gym’s instructors to deliver standardized, high-quality classes using their methods. This appealed to gym owners who wanted to ensure consistent training experiences without having to develop their own programs from scratch.
Discovering the Equipment Industry
After several years in licensing, Rodrigo transitioned to working with a major fitness equipment company. Here, he discovered the true scale and potential of the equipment industry. Far beyond just weights and machines, he saw how millions of dollars were being invested in R&D, ergonomic studies, and university partnerships to develop cutting-edge, technology-integrated equipment.
Between 2012-2020, Rodrigo witnessed the equipment industry modernize rapidly, with smart features and connected experiences becoming the norm in many gyms. While the best tech was often too expensive to be viable in the Brazilian market, he still saw the industry making huge strides in innovation and user experience during this time.
Building a Network and Branching Out
Rodrigo’s 8 years with the major equipment company allowed him to build an extensive professional network. Constantly traveling to events and trade shows across Brazil, he forged relationships with gym owners, entrepreneurs and industry professionals nationwide.
In early 2020, Rodrigo decided to leverage this network and experience to launch his own company, WiidFit. Specializing in premium imported equipment as well as mounting complete gym projects, his strong industry relationships allowed the new venture to gain traction despite the challenges of the pandemic period. Today, WiidFit continues to grow its reputation and client base across Brazil.
The Power of Networking and Building Strong Relationships
Cultivating a Strong Network
Throughout his career, Rodrigo Chan has recognized the immense value of building and maintaining a strong professional network. By attending industry events, engaging in meaningful conversations, and fostering genuine relationships, he has created a solid foundation of contacts that have been instrumental in his success.
Rodrigo emphasizes the importance of dedicating time and effort to networking, especially during the early stages of one’s career. By connecting with individuals from diverse backgrounds and with different perspectives, entrepreneurs can gain valuable insights, discover potential business partners, and identify future clients.
Leveraging Relationships for Business Growth
As Rodrigo transitioned from his role as a fitness instructor to an entrepreneur in the fitness equipment industry, he leveraged the relationships he had cultivated over the years. The trust and credibility he had established with his network allowed him to secure clients and grow his business, even during challenging times.
Rodrigo attributes a significant portion of his company’s success to the strong network he has built. Many of his clients are individuals he has known for years, who have witnessed his dedication and expertise firsthand. This level of trust and familiarity has been crucial in attracting and retaining customers, even as he ventured into a new business venture.
Paying It Forward
In addition to benefiting from his own network, Rodrigo also believes in the power of giving back and supporting others within his professional circle. By sharing his knowledge, offering advice, and connecting people with valuable resources, he aims to contribute to the growth and success of his fellow entrepreneurs.
Rodrigo’s journey highlights the significance of investing time and energy into building authentic relationships within one’s industry. By cultivating a strong network and leveraging those connections, entrepreneurs can create a solid foundation for long-term success and growth.
Embracing Innovation and Staying Ahead in the Fitness Market
Staying Ahead of the Curve with Cutting-Edge Technology
Rodrigo Chan understands the importance of embracing innovation to stay competitive in the fast-paced fitness equipment industry. By keeping a close eye on the latest technological advancements, he ensures that his company remains at the forefront of the market.
Chan regularly attends international trade shows and conferences to discover the newest trends and breakthroughs in fitness equipment. He has developed strong partnerships with leading manufacturers in countries like China, where he sources state-of-the-art machines and accessories that incorporate cutting-edge features such as advanced ergonomics, smart connectivity, and data tracking capabilities.
Offering Comprehensive Solutions for Fitness Facilities
Beyond just providing top-notch equipment, Chan’s company offers end-to-end solutions for fitness facilities of all sizes. From initial concept and design to equipment selection, installation, and ongoing support, his team works closely with clients to create customized fitness spaces that meet their unique needs and goals.
By leveraging his extensive network of industry contacts, Chan is able to connect his clients with the best architects, consultants, and service providers in the business. This comprehensive approach has helped him build a loyal customer base and establish his company as a one-stop-shop for fitness facility development.
Adapting to Changing Market Demands
The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges for the fitness industry, with many gyms and studios forced to close their doors for extended periods. However, Chan quickly adapted to the changing market demands by introducing innovative products and services tailored to the needs of home-based fitness enthusiasts.
One such product was the “My Studio” package, which included live-streamed functional training and indoor cycling classes, along with equipment rental options. This allowed customers to maintain their fitness routines from the safety and comfort of their own homes, while also providing a new revenue stream for Chan’s business during a difficult time.
As gyms began to reopen, Chan focused on helping his clients attract members back by offering unique and exciting equipment options. By staying agile and responsive to the evolving needs of the fitness market, he has positioned his company for long-term success in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Lessons Learned: Advice for Aspiring Fitness Entrepreneurs
Embrace Persistence and Resilience
When starting out as a fitness entrepreneur, you will inevitably face challenges and setbacks. The key is to stay persistent and resilient in the face of adversity. Don’t let failures or obstacles discourage you from pursuing your dreams. Use them as learning opportunities to grow and improve your business.
Build a Strong Network
Networking is crucial for success as a fitness entrepreneur. Attend industry events, connect with other professionals in your field, and build relationships with potential partners and clients. A strong network can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable advice and support, and help you grow your business.
Continuously Educate Yourself
The fitness industry is constantly evolving, with new trends, technologies, and best practices emerging all the time. To stay competitive and relevant, it’s essential to continuously educate yourself and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in your field. Attend workshops, read industry publications, and invest in your own professional development to sharpen your skills and knowledge.
By embracing persistence, building a strong network, and continuously educating yourself, you can set yourself up for long-term success as a fitness entrepreneur. Remember that building a thriving business takes time, effort, and dedication, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can achieve your goals and make a positive impact in the lives of your clients.
