This month the Local Rag chats to Sophie von Huben, the owner of local wellbeing business, SOFIT Fitness.
Tell us about the history of your business and when and why you set it up.
SOFIT Fitness and personal training all started back in 2017 when I became a fully qualified personal trainer and fitness consultant through NZIHF. It all started with outdoor boot camps down at Papahua, moving to weekly group fitness sessions at our local Scout Hall, until I found my amazing studio space on Wainui Rd right by Ngarunui beach where I am still located today. My love of fitness and sports and helping others to be their best version of themselves both physically and mentally through training has always been my passion because I know how amazing it feels to do so! It’s a strength where I can help others!
How has it changed over the years ?
It has changed a lot over the years… from outdoor boot camps with 6am starts, to group fitness circuits both in- and outdoor, to training virtually through COVID19. This lead to SOFIT introducing SPIN classes to the timetable. These are called CLIMB and are a very popular session with my clients. We also offer SQUADS which operate in block memberships; these are often a mix of:
CLIMB – (spin bikes) short/sharp and sure to sweat! We operate under load, climbing our way to the finish line. Great strength /endurance and cardiovascular focus, awesome low impact option.
GRIND – Full body circuit sessions focusing on strength/resistance training as well as endurance and stability.
GLOW – Bodyweight sessions that incorporate resistance/booty bands and additional equipment such as Dbells and kettle bells. Full focus of full body targeting and sculpting.
Personalised coaching 1:1/2:1 and small groups (4-5)
What is your goal for people who approach you to join up ?
To become part of a great fitness community! All SOFIT clients are legends!
For them to feel safe yet to be challenged outside of their comfort zone. To find the strength to challenge not only their physical depths but mentally as well.
What are the strengths of your business ?
Offering challenging sessions in all areas from group fitness SQUADS to personal training. Our sessions really do provide clients with results. We help provide accountability/consistency and adaptations to each individual’s training.
What do you find are the challenges or obstacles in the business or industry?
There are many pros and cons to being self employed as most people who operate a small business would know. One of the challenges I’ve experienced is finding how to balance work and personal life. It can be hard to switch off as I like to be very responsive and supportive to all my clients, which I often find myself doing on my days off. I also design and coach every session at SOFIT as well as operate the admin side of things, so yes, really just finding that perfect work/life balance is key.
COVID-19 was hugely challenging and I’m so proud that SOFIT is still here. I cannot thank my amazing and super supportive clients enough for that 🙂 It can also be a competitive market out there; however, I feel if you find your niche and do it well you will always thrive.
What are you offering in the next few months as we head into autumn and winter ?
I will always be offering personal coaching and my SQUAD block memberships. These often sell out 8 plus weeks in advance; however, we run “pop up weekly” sessions so new clients can experience what we do, or for those that find it hard to commit weekly and need a more relaxed booking option. Can’t make a day/time work ?.. that’s when we suggest touching base and perhaps forming your own SQUAD crew.
How do people get in touch ?
Best place of communication is WhatsApp
0220447122 or my Instagram account “SOFIT Fitness and personal trading Raglan” alternatively email: sofitfitnessraglannz@gmail.com
