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How does an aerospace engineer become a personal trainer? With a lot of practice. Visible results don’t hurt, either.

When he wasn’t in the office, Xavier Ramirez trained for bodybuilding shows. “As coworkers began to see my transformation, they wanted me to train them,” Ramirez recalls. “I guess you can say I was thrown into training after that.”

Paired with his fitness expertise from his time in the United States Air Force, Ramirez noted the additional nutrition guidance he was receiving from his bodybuilding trainers. He started training his own clients on the side, “Until one day I noticed there was not a location that combines the best of wellness and nutrition and fitness together.”

Ramirez opened UR Fit Wellness Center to enhance the overall health and wellness of his clients as they transform their bodies.

A different kind of personal trainer: a mentor

Ramirez learned about SCORE through one of his MBA classes and met with mentor Bob Paino. “I really was seeking general advice,” Ramirez says. “Ever since we met, he has been instrumental in guiding me towards getting the business up and running.”

After a successful launch and a grand opening celebration, Ramirez is looking toward the next phase of his business: growth.

“Be patient and able to change how your business model looks,” Ramirez advises. “From the beginning I had a vision, [and while] the core of the vision stayed the same, everything around the vision has changed dramatically. Be able to adapt and willing to have new experiences.”

Specialization sets this gym apart

Instead of trying to attract thousands of clients, UR Fit caters to 200 members and their individual goals. The facility includes green-conscious, self-powered cardio equipment, an aerobics area and even a kitchen space for cooking classes.

“The biggest challenge has been having the patience [for] building a business,” Ramirez admits. “I already have it envisioned … of our facility being fully staffed and full of clients. The patience I have learned is that not everyone comes in droves.”

But Ramirez has seen UR Fit quickly gain momentum which has calmed his nerves. “I relate it to a flower,” he says. “We have planted the seed of our business and have started to sprout. We just need to give it more water and some sun. Then have us step back and watch it grow!”

Ready to get fit for small business? Find a SCORE mentor to help you make your dreams a reality.