We had the good fortune of connecting with Elliot Bartley and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Elliot, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I chose to start my own fitness coaching business for a few key reasons. First, before I began my coaching career in 2019, I was very dissatisfied with my job at the time (retail management) and I needed a change for the sake of my personal fulfillment. I elected to take the entrepreneurial route in the fitness industry because I strongly believed in my ability to succeed beyond the level that I forecasted in alternate scenarios such as working for a “big box” gym. Though I knew it would be labor-intensive to build a business from scratch, I felt that the effort expended would be well worth the payoff that would be achieved. That payoff is not just monetary, it also includes the benefit of knowing that I am creating a positive impact in the community; helping good people to live their best, healthiest, happiest lives.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career as a fitness lifestyle coach (think personal trainer, but more comprehensive in the support that I offer) is all about helping people to create unique, goal-oriented habits and lifestyles that will allow them to be happy, healthy, confident and driven to be their best selves. A few of the many factors that set me apart from other fitness professionals include: my high level of professionalism, the individual attention that I pay to every client, my technical knowledge of exercise science and behavior change and the contagious positivity and belief that I share among those with whom I work. I am incredibly proud of the people that I have worked with who have made strides toward bettering themselves, and I am excited to build upon these results with every session that I host.
In the simplest terms, I have made it to this point in my career today by doing exactly what I encourage of my clients: show up every day, exert your best effort, welcome mistakes and learn from them and understand that you must hold yourself accountable for all of your victories and losses alike. The journey has not been a cake walk, but good things do not generally come easily. It is a pleasure to put in the work, and I believe that this perspective is crucial. When you possess an unwavering belief in yourself, and you choose to welcome life’s challenges with a smile on your face, you can conquer any challenge that comes your way with a smile on your face.
I want the world to know that in fitness, business, relationships and many other aspects of life, the principles that have produced successful results for Sustainable Gains (my business) are more or less universal. Consistent effort, belief in one’s self and steadfast personal accountability will lead to progress, and eventually, excellence.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In my opinion, a proper tour of Tucson should include food, nature and recreation. When it comes to food, it is essential to experience the abundance of authentic Sonoran Mexican cuisine. While there are countless eateries to choose from, restaurants like El Nene, BK Carne Asada & Hot Dogs and El Guero Canelo are all great options to choose from. For nature, it is hard to beat a leisurely walk through Sanctuary Cove as it is easily accessible, quiet and beautiful. Finally, a phenomenal recreational activity to enjoy in Tucson is our extensive bike path: The Loop. This is arguably the best biking infrastructure in the southwest, so it is well worth the ride!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to a few people who have been irreplaceable when it comes to their contributions to my professional development.
First, Jonathon Soto. Jon has been one of my best friends since we met at our music retail job in 2015. Jon played a big role when it came to getting me involved in fitness originally, and from there, I followed in his footsteps becoming a professional coach. I am happy to say that we currently work together at our home base fitness studio, Pursuit Fitness.
Next, Kevin Anderson. Kevin is the owner of Pursuit Fitness, and I owe him a debt of gratitude for taking a chance on me when I had no clients at all. He allowed me a place to train my clients, gain more experience, and most importantly, he has acted as a mentor to me along the way. In the years since joining the Pursuit Fitness team, Kevin has granted me the privilege and responsibility of being the facility’s manager which is an incredible compliment.
Last but not least, my parents. My mom and dad have always had my back, supporting me and the decisions that I have made. I owe them the most as I literally would not be in this position today without all that they have taught me and all of the love that they continue to share. Now it is my responsibility to give back to them.
Instagram: https://instagram.com/bartleyelliot?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliot.bartley.127?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Other: Email: coachelliotbartley@gmail.com
Image Credits
Alex Liu Alina Motley