“I was looking at fitness franchises and read about the brand and thought it was the kind of thing I’d join.”

Steve Covus made the ambitious decision to open a Hitsona studio overseas in Kentucky, US. He explains what the experience has been like.

Steve Covus isn’t from the US but having seen a gap in the market he decided to set up a Hitsona branch stateside. His studio in Elizabethtown has since opened which has encouraged Covos to open more locations overseas.

Why did you decided to open a Hitsona in Elizabethtown, USA?

I wanted to be in America and had made friends here so just thought why not, there’s nothing like Hitsona here. I was looking at fitness franchises and read about the brand and thought it was the kind of thing I’d join. What Hitsona wanted to achieve and the fact that I was still going to coach and not just sit behind a desk was a big appeal.

What was it like to grow the studio membership?

It was slow to start until I was able to properly work on my business and followed the guidance properly. It now grows at rate and that allows me to integrate everyone.

What was the biggest challenge in you setting up a studio overseas?

Gaining my visa to work in the USA was difficult. Hitsona hired a lawyer to help guide me through the process. The support was faultless and encouraging, but in the grand scheme of things there was nothing they could do to help.

Why do you think Hitsona Elizabethtown has been so successful?

My drive and passion along with the support of Head Office has helped. We believe in what we do and are passionate about helping people reach their goals.

What are your future goals and aspirations with Hitsona?

I’d like to reach full capacity and keep people happy by improving their mental and physical lives. I’m in the process of opening a new studio, with a partner this time.