Gym Empire Secrets is a podcast about building gyms that change lives—starting with the people who run them.
Each episode features honest conversations with gym owners who’ve created powerful fitness transformations in their communities while building sustainable, well-run businesses. We explore how they coach, lead, and design environments where members stay, grow, and succeed—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
From life-changing client stories to the systems that allow gyms to scale their impact without burning out their teams, this show is for gym owners who believe fitness is a vehicle for transformation—and who want a business strong enough to support that mission for the long term.
What It Really Takes to Run a Successful F45 Studio | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 16 Part 2
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, host Ivan speaks with Liong, Studio Manager and trainer at F45 Tanjong Rhu, located at Kallang Wave Mall in Singapore’s Sports Hub.
Liong takes us behind the scenes of operating a busy group-training studio—from responding to member enquiries and supporting trainer welfare to maintaining the space, setting class standards, and ensuring every member feels welcomed from their very first session.
He also shares how F45 Tanjong Rhu has created a loyal and inclusive community through beginner-friendly coaching, personalised support, friendly challenges, themed events, brand collaborations, and a culture where members encourage one another. From HYROX athletes and marathon runners to complete fitness beginners, the studio focuses on helping people progress at their own pace—without intimidation or comparison.
This conversation is packed with practical insights for gym owners, coaches, fitness professionals, and anyone interested in how meaningful member experiences can build long-term loyalty.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you, visit: https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
23 Sept 2026
From Junior National Runner to Gym Owner: How Babs Built F45 Tanjong Rhu | Gym Empire Secrets Ep. 16
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, host Justus speaks with Babs, owner of F45 Tanjong Rhu, located at Kallang Wave Mall in Singapore's Sports Hub.
Babs shares her journey from group-fitness member to studio owner — from stumbling across F45 through an expat magazine, to coaching part-time, to eventually opening her own studio after searching through dozens of potential locations.
She also talks about what's kept F45 Tanjong Rhu's community so close-knit over the past six years, from long-serving coaches to members who've formed lasting friendships beyond the studio, and how the team has stayed strong even as competition among Singapore's fitness studios has grown.
This conversation is packed with practical insights for gym owners, coaches, fitness professionals, and anyone interested in how a strong community culture can carry a studio through six years of growth and competition.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you, visit: https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
21 Sept 2026
Inside BFIT Life: How Balli and Jay Built BFIT Beyond Physiotherapy | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 15
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, we speak with Balli and Jay, the leaders behind BFIT—a multidisciplinary lifestyle hub that combines physiotherapy, rehabilitation and one-to-one strength training.
Balli shares how his 16 years of experience as a physiotherapist inspired him to create BFIT, starting from a simple shared space before developing it into an integrated fitness and rehabilitation business. Jay explains how his background as an athlete helped BFIT close the gap between recovering from an injury and safely returning to sport.
We explore how BFIT’s physiotherapists and coaches collaborate to deliver personalised care, why the business employs a full-time team, and how its trusted network of doctors, specialists and wellness partners supports each client’s journey.
Balli and Jay also discuss building a welcoming culture, creating sustainable results without hard selling, preventing injuries among young athletes, and their plans to expand BFIT without losing what makes it special.
This conversation offers valuable lessons for gym owners, physiotherapists, coaches and fitness professionals who want to build a client-focused business with a strong team and lasting culture.
To learn more about our community and discover how we can help you grow your gym, visit: https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
3 Sept 2026
Coach or Cheerleader? How CAVO Fitness Is Redefining Group Training | Gym Empire Secrets Ep. 14
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, Ivan sits down with Justin and Nicholas from Cavo Fitness, one of Singapore’s most interesting boutique fitness studios. They share how Cavo was built around intentional, periodized group training rather than hype-driven coaching, how the gym grew through word of mouth, and what it takes to design programs that work for both beginners and experienced members. They also talk about coaching philosophy, community, and the long-term vision for expanding Cavo’s impact beyond Tiong Bahru.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you visit https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
26 Aug 2026
How He Started a Gym With No Savings | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 13
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, we sit down with Sarhan, founder of SwoleFit Garage, to hear how a simple workout group under a void deck grew into a purpose-driven gym community in Singapore.
Sarhan shares his unconventional path from working as a shipyard safety officer to becoming a full-time fitness coach and gym owner. What began with a few barbells, dumbbells, and informal $5 training sessions soon attracted a growing group of members—many of them aged 40 and above—who wanted to get stronger, move better, and improve their health.
We discuss the real challenges behind the journey: police complaints at the void deck, retrenchment, COVID shutdowns, rental pressure, change-of-use issues, and the incredible support of members who believed in SwoleFit Garage when things became difficult.
Sarhan also explains why he is passionate about making strength training approachable and affordable for everyday people—not just athletes or experienced gym-goers. From helping runners manage knee pain to encouraging members to complete their first 5K or compete in strongman events, his focus has always been on education, progress, and leaving no one behind.
This episode is full of honest lessons for gym owners, coaches, fitness professionals, and anyone who believes in building a business through genuine care for people and community.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you, visit:
https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
19 Aug 2026
30 Years, 1900+ Reviews: U-Elite Martial Fitness with Master Zac | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 12
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, host Ivan sits down with Master Zac, founder of U-Elite Martial Fitness and one of Singapore's most respected martial arts coaches. With over 30 years of experience, Master Zac's journey spans Taekwondo, boxing, Krav Maga, and military combatives, starting from his time in the Singapore Police Force and Special Forces, where he led his unit to championship gold in 1997.
Master Zac shares how he built a gym with over 1,900 Google reviews by taking self-defense training beyond the gym walls — traveling across Singapore to teach corporates, government agencies, hospitals, and airlines. He also opens up about earning his rare 7th Dan in Tukong Musul, a Korean special forces martial art, under a grandmaster who shaped his entire coaching philosophy, and breaks down the real costs and challenges of running a martial arts gym in Singapore today.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you visit https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
24 Jun 2026
Building a Heartland Fitness Community: GoFit Toa Payoh's Social Mission | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 11
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, Justus sits down with Glen, owner of Go Fit Toa Payoh — a 24/7 access gym, physiotherapy, and personal training facility located in the heart of Toa Payoh, Singapore.
Glen shares how he entered the Go Fit franchise with ambitions to scale fast, then discovered a deeper mission: helping seniors build strength, mobility, and independence so they can live fully, travel with family, and avoid becoming a burden at home.
We dive into why Go Fit Toa Payoh isn’t a typical 24/7 gym, how a team of senior trainers became the gym’s unfair advantage, the outcomes members achieve, and how the business grows through walk-ins, referrals, and PT trials.
This episode is about purpose-led positioning, and building a gym that creates real impact in the heartlands.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you visit https://strategym.sg/join
17 Jun 2026
How Extreme Fitness Grew from 3 to 6 Gym Locations in Just 2 Years | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 10
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, we sit down with Thiru and Didi from Extreme Fitness to talk about their journey growing the business from 3 to 6 locations in just 2 years.
Thiru shares how his background as a military police commander shaped his coaching and leadership style, while Didi opens up about his transformation from being an overweight teenager to becoming an Operations Manager in the fitness industry after more than 10 years of experience.
We dive into what makes Extreme Fitness different — their strong family-like culture, focus on body transformation, deep client relationships, and why they believe community and care matter more than just selling memberships. They also share how word-of-mouth, strong internal systems, personalised training, and even charity work have helped fuel their growth across Singapore’s heartlands.
This episode is packed with practical insights for gym owners, personal trainers, and fitness entrepreneurs who want to build a sustainable gym business that truly changes lives.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you, visit strategym.sg/join
10 Jun 2026
Firing Half His Team to Save The Gym: The Story of YJ & BFT AMK | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 9
YJ is the owner of BFT Ang Mo Kio, a group fitness franchise studio in Singapore. With 16 years of training experience, 12 years as a certified coach, and a background in competitive bodybuilding and BJJ, YJ opened BFT Ang Mo Kio four years ago as the 16th BFT studio to launch in Singapore. In this episode, he shares the raw story of building a thriving gym, stepping away to pursue other ventures, watching it quietly decline, and the grueling 9-month turnaround that followed, including replacing half his coaching team, spending $30K on upgrades, and going undercover in his own classes to find the truth.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you visit https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
6 Apr 2026
The Harsh Realities of Gym Ownership: When Clarence Took Over BFT Tai Seng | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 8
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, we uncover the real story behind running a fitness business as Justus sits down with Clarence, owner of BFT Tai Seng. From his years as a fitness trainer with a day job to navigating the rough waters of gym ownership—including betrayal by business partners, firing toxic coaches, and rebuilding team culture—Clarence holds nothing back.
He shares how his dream of gym ownership quickly collided with painful realities: late nights worrying about payroll, handling difficult clients, and the tough choices necessary to foster a positive, inclusive community. Clarence reveals the lessons learned the hard way, why sales remain the lifeblood of any gym, and how creating genuine connections outweighs having the fanciest equipment.
Whether you’re a gym owner, trainer, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of the fitness industry, you’ll find priceless insights and unfiltered advice in this candid conversation.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you grow your gym, visit https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
30 Mar 2026
Knowing Every Member By Name: How Dhyaanesh Engineered F45 Jurong West | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 7
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, we sit down with Dhyaanesh, owner of F45 Training Jurong West.
Dhyaanesh shares his journey from working as a mechanical engineer overseas to returning to Singapore and taking the leap into gym ownership. He opens up about why he chose the F45 franchise model, what made Jurong West the right location, and how leaving corporate life led to one of the best decisions he ever made.
We also dive into what makes F45 Jurong West stand out. From greeting every member by name to building a community that feels like family, Dhyaanesh explains how personal connection, strong coaching, and a welcoming culture have helped the gym create incredible member loyalty and long-term transformations.
In this conversation, we cover:
- Dhyaanesh’s transition from engineer to gym owner
- Why he chose F45 and Jurong West
- How community drives retention and referrals
- The importance of knowing members personally
- Building a strong and diverse coaching team
- Supporting members through weight loss, weddings, and lifestyle change
- The realities of gym ownership and competition in Singapore
- Why fitness results should be sustainable, not rushed
This episode is packed with honest insights for gym owners, coaches, and anyone interested in building a fitness business centered on people, culture, and real results.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you, visit https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
29 Mar 2026
How Friendship Built 2 Muay Thai Studios (Yod Muay Fitness & TMS) | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 6
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, we sit down with Nick and Ian, the founders behind Yok Muay Fitness and the newly launched The Muay Thai Studio.
Nick shares his deeply personal journey from teaching private classes and working in different gyms to finally taking the leap into gym ownership, inspired by his late mother, his wife, close friends, and loyal students. Ian opens up about backing Nick from day one, the trust and friendship that built the business, and how the two of them grew Yok Muay Fitness into a strong Muay Thai community.
We also dive into why they launched The Muay Thai Studio as a second concept, how it differs from the more traditional Yok Muay Fitness model, and their vision of making Muay Thai more accessible through fitness-focused programming, community, and even their unique idea of rhythmic Muay Thai. They also share the realities of gym ownership, from rent and manpower struggles to the importance of creating a true home for members.
This episode is packed with honest insights for gym owners, martial arts coaches, and anyone curious about building a meaningful fitness business rooted in passion, trust, and community.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you visit https://strategym.sg/join
27 Feb 2026
Scaling From 1 to 4 Gym Studios (Lessons From a Rough First Launch) | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 5
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, we sit down with Kelvin, owner of BFT Punggol Oasis, BFT Punggol Coast, BFT Daisy Farm, and BFT Tampines West. We also get a chance to speak with Derek, the head coach of the 4 studios.
Kelvin shares his journey from running a construction business to opening his first gym during the COVID period, the hard lessons learned from a rough start, and how those experiences helped him scale to four BFT studios.
We dive into what Body Fit Training (BFT) really is with Derek, how they build strong gym communities, supports mental health initiatives like SOS Singapore, prepares members for HYROX, and why community and continual improvement are at the core of his business philosophy.
This episode is packed with honest insights for gym owners, fitness professionals, and anyone curious about building a sustainable fitness business.
You can reach them at: +65 8043 6968
To learn more about our community and how we can help you visit https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
19 Feb 2026
Inside Spartans Boxing Jurong West: Community, Champions & Clean Gyms | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 4
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets we sit down with Victorino, Head Coach and Gym Manager of Spartans Boxing Jurong West. Victorino shares his journey from being introduced to boxing by his father at a young age to leading one of Spartans’ most award-winning gyms.
We talk about leadership, building a strong coaching tOeam, creating a clean and inclusive gym culture, and why boxing is one of the most powerful tools for mental resilience, discipline, and personal growth. Victorino also explains how Spartans Jurong West supports beginners, develops fighters, and builds a genuine community across all ages.
If you’ve ever wondered how boxing can shape your mindset, career, and life, this episode is for you.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you visit https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
20 Jan 2026
Obese, Broke, Nearly Dead: The Weight Loss Story That Built Sculpt Society | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 3
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, we sit down with Viknesh (Vicky), founder of Sculpt Society, a Singapore-based weight loss gym known for its raw honesty and life-changing transformations.
Vicky shares his powerful journey from weighing 136kg and facing a serious heart scare, to losing the weight, rebuilding his life, and opening a gym dedicated solely to sustainable weight loss. Unlike most trainers, Vicky intentionally gains and loses weight every year to experience exactly what his clients go through — mentally, physically, and emotionally.
We dive into:
The reality of obesity and health in Singapore
Why Sculpt Society focuses on “graduation,” not client retention
The psychology behind sustainable weight loss
The brutal challenges of running a gym
Why Vicky is transitioning into motivational speaking
This is an unfiltered conversation about discipline, mindset, failure, and what real transformation actually takes.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you visit https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
13 Jan 2026
From SIA to Startup: Ben’s Comeback Story (MT30) | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 2
In this episode of Gym Empire Secret, Justus Wah sits down with Benjamin Lim, co-founder and owner of MT30, a 30-minute Muay Thai–inspired fitness studio in Singapore.
Benjamin shares his journey from working as a Singapore Airlines flight attendant to navigating career transitions during COVID, personal loss, and depression — and how those experiences shaped the creation of MT30.
We dive into how MT30 reimagines Muay Thai with a no-judgment, high-energy, efficient workout, why customer experience is at the core of the brand, and Benjamin’s vision to scale MT30 globally.
This episode is about resilience, purpose, and building a fitness business that truly puts people first.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you visit https://strategym.sg/join (https://strategym.sg/join)
6 Jan 2026
The “Revenue Cake” Strategy That Saved Brandon Koh's Gym Business | Gym Empire Secrets Ep 1
In this episode of Gym Empire Secrets, host Justus Wah sits down with Brandon Koh, former macro FX trader turned multi-gym owner, who has built, acquired, and scaled up to 11 boutique fitness studios.
Brandon breaks down why most gyms fail in years 1, 3, and 5, how to stress-test a gym business before opening, and why he believes revenue systems matter more than motivation or coaching talent. He shares hard-earned lessons on customer acquisition costs, referrals, digital ads, community building, real estate decisions, and the “revenue cake” framework that helps gyms survive in highly competitive markets.
This episode is a must-watch for gym owners, studio founders, and fitness entrepreneurs who want practical, numbers-driven strategies - not hype.
To learn more about our community and how we can help you visit www.strategym.sg/join (http://www.strategym.sg/join)
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