Name: Michelle Montoya Thomas

Age: 25

Hometown: Beulah, ND

Education: Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise Science from University of Mary

Name of Business: Thomas Performance and Fitness

Business Type: LLC

How did you get started? After being employed as a personal trainer for several years at a large gym, I decided I wanted to continue to bring health and fitness to the forefront in our community, but I wanted to do it in a place where I felt clients would see more success. A fellow trainer (Thea Ward) had recently moved to a private studio to train her clients, and I decided to join her there as my own business.

What I do every day: I get up in the early hours of the morning to meet with clients. I take them through workouts, go over nutrition with them, and many times work on their mobilizations and flexibility. Whatever goals they have, I try to help them reach.

Successes (best part):The best part about starting this business is watching my clients in this new environment. Many of them felt insecure and self-conscious in a bigger gym setting, but in the studio, they feel more confident and focused; there are no distractions. I’ve loved having them open up to me about the challenges they are facing and how they overcome those challenges. Making this move has improved my relationships with clients immensely.

Challenges: I did face a few challenges of my own as I started this business. I have a solid education in fitness, but the business side of things was difficult for me. I wasn’t sure what steps to take to make this all a reality. I still have plenty to learn, but I’ve had a lot of help from my husband (and even some clients!) getting started.

Advice for other YPN members: My advice to other YPN members: Don’t be afraid to take a big step or make a big change in your career. It can be such a scary thing, but if your heart is telling you to go for it, you should listen!