From prizefighter to fitness entrepreneur, Ricky Jackson of Houston, Texas and our April 2018 PFP Trainer of the Month, is on a mission to inspire fitness and health in as many people as he can, and is impacting his community in a big way. He takes on his mission with enthusiasm, passion, and purpose. Ricky’s. Innovation and determination drive his successful businesses, the multiple books he’s authored, and his ongoing commitment to serving his community. Whether he’s training youth, or seniors, or collegiate athletes, Ricky Jackson is raising the bar by being the utmost professional while serving from an altruistic heart.
Here is how Ricky is raising the bar in the industry…
Certifications/qualifications: Memorial Herman NPTI, CSCA Member, USA Boxing Coach
Business name: JACKS CLUB FITNESS. WELLNESS. BOXING.
Website:
www.RickyJackson.com
www.JACKSCLUB.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rickyjackson007
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickyjackson/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickyjackson
Year started in business: 2001
Awards & Recognition
1995 Positive Influential African American Award (PIAA)
1995 Texas Cruiserweight Champion Emeritus
1995-2001 Texas Heavyweight Champion Emeritus
1996 City of Houston Proclamation “Ricky ‘Action’ Jackson Day” for community service by Mayor Bob Lanier
1997 Young African American Achiever of Houston Award – Human Enrichment of Life Program, Inc.
2014 Houston Award “Personal Trainer” RickyJackson.com
2015 Better Business Bureau PERSONAL TRAINER Winner of Distinction Award
2015, 2016, 2017 Houston Award “Personal Trainer” Business Hall of Fame
2017 HOUSTON’S 50 HOTTEST FITNESS PROS Award
2017 America’s Got Talent Fitness Segment
United Negro College Fund – Warren Moon Community Service and Athletic Award & Fashion Show
2018 Marquis Who's Who Award
2018 Better Business Bureau Award (unannounced) “TEXANS CLUB”
What inspired you to start your business?
When I retired as a prizefighter, I felt that I still had the passion to explore a different angle that was related to my career. As a pro boxer, I had to train constantly to be in my best form. My career played an important part in building a sense of discipline, commitment and a deep-rooted passion for health and fitness. If you are drawn towards starting a personal training business, you need to develop the right skills and be business savvy. You must transform your passion into a business that will be profitable for you and helpful to your clients.
What is one hard lesson you’ve learned in business you believe has been most valuable?
Unlike when you are working for a gym, personal training requires that you work hard to attract new clients. Constant marketing and advertising plays a crucial role because it lets potential clients know about you. I have had to constantly market my services that include body building, weight training, youth training, adult training, elderly training and in-home training. I also continually market my skills as a strength and conditioning coach in order to attract new clients, both individuals and teams.
If I asked one of your clients why they choose you over other gyms/trainers, what would they likely say?
“A true professional! Ricky personalized my program that enabled my rehab from surgery and then into advancing my physical fitness. More importantly he provided motivation through data-driven program planning, workout variety, positive coaching while inducing pain that was actually very rewarding and produced results! He has a presence and an attitude that just makes you want to be better and work harder! The ultimate trainer! Thanks Ricky”
Name one or two ways you are trying to raise the bar in the industry.
I utilize state-of-the-art equipment and offer 24-hour service, which provides flexible workout schedules and less-crowded training sessions. People are busy, busy, busy, and such flexible scheduling eliminates excuses along the lines of “not finding time to workout” and helps our clients meet their fitness goals.
Most importantly, customer service always comes first, and providing a personalized experience leads to maximum results in minimum time. I believe it is important to understand there is no one-size-fits-all training program.
