Today we’d like to introduce you to Shahin Safae.
Shahin, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I moved to LA from Norway almost four years ago. When I moved here, I could barely speak English. In Norway, I was a professional athlete. I was on the national cross-country skiing team. I even set a record of climbing over 12,000 meters over the ocean in less than 24 hours on a bike. When I moved to LA, I had no idea what to do! I started working as a valet attendant at MR. C Hotel in Beverly Hills for about $8 an hour for eight months until I found my way into Equinox Beverly Hills and became a personal trainer. It took me one month to sign up enough clientele to become a full-time trainer at Equinox BH and three months to become the top trainer at the club. It took me six months to become one of the top trainers in the whole nation with over 200 sessions each month!
Although I worked at a reputable, higher-end gym, I wanted to create a facility that was more private, where everything was more exclusive and elite. That’s when Royal Personal Training came into my head. I decided to quit Equinox and open up my own small private fitness club with only one-on-one personal training. I didn’t have much money and was on a very low budget, but somehow, I started RPT with the man who hired me at Equinox BH. We did this together for almost a year, but because we were on different pages when it came to the business, I eventually bought out his share, and we ended our partnership on good terms. He opened up a new RPT in Dallas, Texas. I wanted to continue bringing my vision to life because I knew that one day it would pay off. I really believed in what I was doing and creating for people.
Today, RPT has expanded from 2600 sq. ft to over 6000 sq. ft. We have all brand new custom made equipment, turf grass for athletes, private showers and bathrooms, lockers, a smoothie bar, 18 trainers, a management team, and me running the show as not only the owner of the company, but also as one of the full-time trainers because I love what do I.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One thing I struggled with after moving to LA from Norway was learning a new language. The language barrier gave me a hard time when I was doing consultations to sign up new clients. People had a very hard time understanding me. After much practice communicating with clients through the years, I have grown accustomed to a new language I didn’t know years ago. I guess you can say I’m a fast learner.
The road was not easy and it was not affordable, but it was worth it. Once I opened my own gym, my schedule required 15 hour days, sleepless nights, and lots of focus. Aside from working as a full-time trainer, it was my obligation to manage everything, recruit potential clients, perform consultations and assessments, and handle any issues that came up all at the same time. I had to work even harder to make sure the lights stayed on during my slowest months because I knew it would all be worth it.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Royal Personal Training – what should we know?
Royal Personal Training is an elite and private gym for those interested in personal training. I have a variety of 17 trainers who specialize in weight and resistance training, bodybuilding, corrective exercises, weight loss, Crossfit, pre and post-natal exercise, boxing, yoga, and so much more! Our gym feels like home to clients and trainers. Everyone knows your name when you walk inside. Clients even keep contact with one another. If you’re in my gym, then you’re family. I keep the memberships at a minimum to respect the privacy and space of my clients, and only approved individuals can become members. The atmosphere at RPT is always upbeat, enjoyable, and exciting!
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Hard work, never giving up, and learning from my mistakes were all important keys to the success I feel like I have reached so far.
Pricing:
- Level 1 Training: $100-$120/session
- Level 2 Training: $120-$140/session
- Level 3 Training: $140-$160/session
- CEO Training: $180-$210/session
- Membership: $199/Month
Contact Info:
- Address: 822 S Robertson Blvd Suite 101
Los Angeles, CA 90035 - Website: www.royalpersonaltraining.com
- Phone: (310) 657-4181
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: instagram.com/royalpersonaltraining
- Facebook: facebook.com/royalpersonaltraining
- Other: royalpersonaltraining.shop
Image Credit:
Tyree Fifer
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