Title: Row House: An Inclusive Fitness Studio for All
Introduction:
When it comes to fitness studios in the U.S., there are plenty to choose from. However, many of them cater to specific groups or skill levels. Fortunately, Row House breaks the mold by offering inclusive workouts that can benefit nearly anyone. In this Small Business Spotlight, we explore the success story of Row House franchises in the Ashburn, Shaw, and West End areas of Washington D.C.
What Does Row House Offer:
Row House is a boutique fitness studio that specializes in rowing workouts. Co-owner Barry Carpe explains that rowing is a full-body, low-impact, high-intensity workout that builds endurance and strength.
The Business Niche:
Row House stands out by providing a workout that accommodates all fitness levels and body types. Carpe emphasizes the studio’s commitment to inclusivity, with small classes of up to 25 members who work together as “one boat/one crew” to achieve their fitness goals.
How the Business Got Started:
The founders of Row House from New York partnered with Xponential Fitness to create franchise opportunities. Carpe and his wife Ellen had always dreamed of starting their own business, and after discovering Row House’s mission and modality, they knew it was the perfect fit. They attended a Discovery series at Xponential HQ, fell in love with the concept, and decided to bring Row House to their community.
Biggest Win:
One of Row House’s biggest achievements is being recognized as the Best in Ashburn for three consecutive years. The Carpes are proud of the positive impact their business has had on the community. Their full-time careers in digital media and technology inspired them to own a brick-and-mortar business where they could contribute and support local organizations.
Biggest Risk:
Taking over two additional studios in Washington D.C. was a significant risk for Row House. However, the opportunity presented itself, and with the franchisor’s support and guidance, they successfully opened the Shaw studio and plan to open West End soon.
Lesson Learned:
Carpe emphasizes the importance of hiring the right people. While Row House now has an amazing staff across their three studios, he acknowledges that recruitment takes time and should never be rushed. Finding individuals who share the same work ethic and values is crucial for the business’s success.
How They’d Spend an Extra $100,000:
If given an extra $100,000, Row House would invest in sales training to enhance their team’s skills and improve customer service.
Fun Fact:
Row House celebrates its members’ milestones by honoring their commitment to wellness. They recognize achievements such as reaching 50K meters within four weeks or hitting the one million meter mark. The studio takes photos, presents gifts, and encourages post-workout celebrations with potlucks organized by members who have formed friendships through Row House.
Conclusion:
Row House’s commitment to inclusivity, low-impact workouts, and community involvement sets them apart from other fitness studios. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rower, Row House offers a welcoming space for diverse individuals to achieve their fitness goals. Visit their website to learn more about their inclusive approach to rowing workouts.
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Image: The Row House, Barry and Ellen Carpe
