Certifications/qualifications: ACSM-CPT, HKC, STC

Studio/Business Name: Spark Fitness and DC-Training

Website: http://www.sparkfitnessorlando.com and http://www.davidcrump.net

Facebook: www.facebook.com/davidcefc

Twitter: @DC_Training

Year started in business: Training since 2006 and opened Spark Fitness in 2013

After working many years in commercial facilities as a trainer and manager, I was very dissatisfied with the way clients and trainers were treated. I wanted to build a business that could lead with heart and where not only clients, but also trainers, could feel valued and cared for.

What is one hard lesson you’ve learned in business you believe has been most valuable?

Be authentic. People want to do business with and connect with those that are willing to be themselves despite what others think. There’s a lot of pressure to do what other trainers or business owners are doing, but in a saturated industry like ours, you are more likely to be successful by embracing what makes you unique.

If I asked one of your clients why they choose you over other places/gyms/trainers, what would they likely say?

The experience. One of our mantras at Spark Fitness is that “the experience is just as important as the results.” Consistency is the biggest driver of success and by creating an outstanding experience for each and every client is the key to consistency and retention. We want our clients to stay with us forever because they want to, not because they have to.

Name one or two ways you are trying to raise the bar in the industry?

There are two things that I’m passionate about: improving the perception of personal training as a credible career and helping other professionals grow. Since these both go hand-in-hand, I spend a lot of time mentoring other trainers on career development and the business of fitness. Additionally, I try to set the standard of being a great employer by offering generous wages, continuing education reimbursement and paid time off to my employees.