Episode 2 of the Virtual Speaker Series is here!
Earlier this month I had the honor and privilege to interview my longtime friend Becka Nieder, Personal Trainer and Owner at Becka’s Boot Camp in Grayslake, IL. Not only has she kicked my butt MANY times with good workouts and nutritional information, but she is also celebrating 10 years in business this year. Covid had a double-whammy for Becka’s Boot Camp due to the in-person restrictions and also quickly adapting to virtual classes. But like I always say, you can’t hold a good girl down. Becka pulled off a successful 2020 by staking flexible, adding staff, and meeting the demands of her customers. Scroll on to read more about Becka!
Name: Becka Nieder
Business: Becka’s Boot Camp
Title: Owner/Trainer
Email: becka.nieder@yahoo.com
Phone Number: 708-257-0522
Website: beckasbootcamp.com
Follow on Social Media : https://www.facebook.com/beckasbootcamp, https://www.instagram.com/beckasbootcamp
A little about Becka:
What were you like in high school?
I was quiet, with more acquaintances than close friends. Always at dance or drumline, probably over 20 hours a week most weeks. Did well in school, but didn’t spend a lot of time on school work. My parents would tell you I spent too much time with the high school boyfriend.
What inspired you to pursue your career of choice?
I realized I didn’t want to teach kids. My desire to help others is best met by people who want to be helped. So I pivoted to “teach” adults how to exercise and eat right.
What is your education and professional history?
I have a bachelor’s in physical education and dance education. I earned certificates in personal training and nutrition. After working in big box gyms for 4 years, I opened Becka’s Boot Camp in October of 2011.
Tell us about your family.
I have been married to Mike for almost 11 years. He works in IT security for hospitals. Tyler is 20 and works full time. Grace is 9, she is most often found at dance or circus class. She competes in the German wheel. Jack is 7, and he is all boy, often found up a tree or in a creek. He usually does wrestling and football, but he is finding fun in circus classes during this season too.
Tell us about your business.
Where are you located?
Grayslake, IL. We are about halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
What services do you provide?
We offer in-person boot camp classes and virtual boot camp, Zumba, and yoga classes. Classes are offered on a drop-in or unlimited monthly basis. Unlimited members get access to group challenges and a pre-recorded library of workouts, as well as discounted access to customized programs. Lifestylers meet 1-1 weekly, a customized workout plan, specific nutrition support, and complete plans with habits in Trainerize app.
How long have you been with your current company?
I opened the doors in October of 2011!
What is one way that 2020 challenged you professionally?
2020 forced me to refocus my business options online and on the go. I brought on people to teach more virtual classes.
What impact did covid have on your business?
Covid caused a roller coaster that I’m not quite off of yet. Highs and lows, people sticking it out and then leaving en mass. Finding that the people who enjoyed in-person class were not the ones who want to have access to virtual fitness classes
Share a professional success from 2020.
Bringing on new instructors and expanding what I’m offering to members for accountability
What is one piece of marketing advice you would give another business like yours?
Don’t be afraid to hire/outsource marketing. Being a one-person show, just having someone to bounce ideas off of and help organize a marketing plan is more than worth the money.
