Your Name: Alyce Howard
Business Name: Studio Zumba Fitness and Dance
Type of Business: Fitness and Dance
Business Location:United States
U.S. State: Florida
Website www.zumbapalmbay.com
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Studio-Zumba-Palm-Bay-FL/
Reason for starting
I was teaching classes at gyms all over town when the main facility where I taught the most classes closed. It was the only women-only place in town and while I wanted co-ed, it naturally attracts more women by the nature of the classes we offer.
Biggest Success
Expansion within the first 8 months of business due to explosive growth and eventually moving into our own building.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
Competition from cut rate gyms with a similar class schedule popping up very close to my facility. We are taking a hit but trying to improve our marketing efforts as well as give the best service we can to make it a more friendly and personal atmosphere than your typical gym.
Who is your most important role model?
In business I’m inspired by Beto Perez who created the Zumba Fitness program. He came to the U.S. with no money and not speaking the language and is now a worldwide sensation with video games, DVD’s, instructor training programs in multiple formats. They have thrived in this economy and are the American dream!