Lisa Druxman had worked in the fitness industry for sixteen years before she gave birth to her son, Jacob. She was faced with the dilemma of so many new moms today—she needed a full-time income, but didn’t want to be away from her baby on a full-time basis. So she came up with the idea for Stroller Strides; fitness classes that combine a stroller-based workout and body toning exercises (moms do the whole workout with baby in tow). Moms love the program because it combines exercise, social time with other moms, and an activity with baby—it’s the ultimate in multi-tasking! She had so much demand for her workout that she has since franchised the concept across the country.
Mom Inventors recently interviewed Lisa for our monthly online newsletter. Here is her story:
Q: Describe your company and your program.
A: Stroller Strides is the country’s largest and fastest growing fitness program for moms. We have over 600 locations nationwide. It is a franchise that is built around careers that are supportive of motherhood. We offer both pre- and post-natal fitness classes. The Stroller Strides classes combine a stroller based workout with intervals of body toning using the environment and exercise tubing. More than just a workout, we offer playgroups and support for new moms.
Q: Why did you start this company and when?
A: I wanted to blend my passion for fitness with motherhood. More than anything, I didn’t want to go back to work full time, but needed a full time income. I couldn’t bear the thought of leaving my son so I created a career that was literally built around him. I had no idea the impact it would have on moms across the country. Apparently, I was not the only one looking for a career that was supportive of motherhood.
Q: What were your initial goals?
A: Pretty simply, I wanted to have control of my job so that I could choose my own hours and be with my new baby. I loved working in the fitness industry and felt that I had something to share with new moms. It was and still is a very feel-good business.
Q: Describe yourself and your family. What is your background and how does it relate to your company?
A: I am a mom to Jacob (six-years-old) and Rachel (almost three-years-old). Along with my husband Jason, we are committed to running the business so that it’s about family first. Our corporate home office literally is our home. We have about a dozen employees who are in and out of our office each day. It’s crazy, but fun! I’ve been in the fitness industry for over sixteen years. I’ve done everything from teach aerobics, to personal training, to running major health clubs. I combined these experiences to create Stroller Strides.
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