Mastering the Fitness Industry
By Wendy Babatunde
The pursuit of wellness has become a cornerstone of modern living. Fitness and lifestyle brands have played a crucial role in promoting a holistic approach to well-being, intertwining physical health and positive lifestyles. I decided to contribute to the wellness space by creating a brand of my own.
In 2020, BodiedByWens was born, a fitness and lifestyle brand that provides quality and sustainable products and apparel, dedicated to helping women discover a world of confidence and growth throughout their fitness journey.
My educational background in health promotion and kinesiology provided a foundation and preparedness for the fitness industry. Creating this brand was necessary to leverage my interest in health and fitness, along with my willingness to promote conscious and mindful lifestyles for women.
Working out the final details associated with running a business, including developing marketing strategies, understanding financial management, and amplifying community building, was the most challenging part of it all. Over the past few years, I experienced personal development having to overcome uncertainty not only from others but myself.
However, these challenges did not discourage me but rather created opportunities to develop business sensibilities. I learned to strategically navigate difficult circumstances with securing licenses and experimenting with wholesale retailers. Maintaining a tenacity to see business decisions through allowed me to see considerable business growth completing over 500 orders since I launched my brand.
I faced societal expectations as a young black woman rising in the role of a CEO given that the fitness industry is typically male dominated. I see my role not just as a business owner, but as a trailblazer, encouraging others to embrace their business ambitions regardless of any barrier encountered at the intersection of gender, race, or age.
Creating a fitness and lifestyle brand has been a rewarding venture so far. Building a brand goes beyond just selling products; it’s about establishing a community and promoting a positive mindset.
I hope to inspire others with my brand as I believe that passion and perseverance go a long way. My personal motto for my Bodied Babes is that consistency is key, not only in their fitness or business journey but in all aspects of their everyday lives.