Today we’d like to introduce you to Donna and Steve Cowan.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Donna: I’ve been working out since I was a teenager in the early 80’s and really fell in love with changing my physique through diet and exercise so when the opportunity came available to work in a gym I took it in 2004. I have worn many “hats” which has helped me get to where I am today. Personal training, sales, manager and I have also competed in Women’s Figure, bodybuilding and physique throughout the years to help me in my venture to keep my motivation and to help others.
In 2014, my husband and I purchased a gym that was under a franchise but we went out on our own in 2016 successfully re- branding to Universal Fitness Hiram. Here at Universal Fitness Hiram, you are considered family you are not just a $$ sign. My husband Steve and I have a true passion for what we do. We pride ourselves in having a super clean well-maintained facility. When you enter our facility, you feel positive energy and a non- intimidating environment, you are also greeted by our knowledgeable staff.
Steve: I started my fitness journey in 1986 just out of high school. I was involved in several team sports growing up. Physically, I was always a fat kid and spent most of my time keeping up with my skinny athletic friends. Physique augmentation was an immediate attraction to working out and quickly became my passion. In my 20’s, non- competitive bodybuilding was a hobby and I also did some part time personal training for some friends. At 36 I did my first NPC amateur show and started personal training full time. I’ve successfully trained clients for competitions and athletes for various sports. I was working as a training manager until my wife and I purchased our gym in 2014.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not been a smooth road. We have defiantly had struggles along the way. I knew when we bought our gym that we weren’t going to get rich off of it. Our passion is helping people achieve good health and seeing lifelong results. When we re-branded from a franchise name to out on our own we took a big leap of faith which caused some friction. A great saying that I go by is: No one said it would be easy but they did say it would be worth it. There’s always ups and downs in every business it’s how you handle it that makes you a success.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Universal Fitness Hiram is a 24/7 access gym. We have a variety of weights. Hammer Strength and Life Fitness equipment (machines and plated weights). Our cardio deck has tread mills, ellipticals, summit trainers, recumbent bikes, upright bike, Matrix climb mills all with TVs attached. We have Free Wi-Fi, free group fitness class, and we also offer personal training and kickboxing.
We specialize in offering a clean well-maintained gym. Steve and I work each day. You will find us cleaning, repairing equipment when needed, helping members with any questions regarding fitness and dieting.
What were you like growing up?
Donna: I was vertically challenged and very quiet growing up so I was an easy target for bullies when I was really young. My twin sister Delores always came to my rescue, she was my hero!!! When I reached high school, (South Cobb High School) I became very active in drill team. That helped me get out of my shyness.
In the early 80’s I started working out and saw a picture of Rachel McLish (Ms. Olympia in women’s bodybuilding 1980). That’s when I decided to get into women’s bodybuilding. Rachel McLish in my opinion radiated beauty and strength. I trained for years and raised my 4 beautiful daughters and when they were older I did my first competition at age 44 and still competing at age 53.
Steve: As a youth, I was highly active and outgoing and didn’t let the fact that I was overweight slow me down. I was always the last pick for the team and spent most of my time proving myself. I was mentored by my grandfather who was an avid outdoorsman and I learned to fish and hunt at an early age. My wife and I are Christians and faithful members of our church and we seek God every day for guidance.
Pricing:
- 12 month agreement $19.99 a month semi annual mainthenance fee $29.95
- Month to month agreement $25 a month semi annual maintenance fee $29.95
- 12 month paid in full membership $250 maintenance fee included
- 6 month paid in full membership $180 maintenance fee included
Contact Info:
- Address: Universal Fitness Hiram
5886 Wendy Bagwell Parkway
Suite 207
Hiram, GA 30141 - Website: www.universalfitnesshiram.com
- Phone: 770-943-0049
- Email: dcowan1964@gmail.com
- Facebook: universalfitnesshiram
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