Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Bentz.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
In 2004, I moved from La Crosse, WI with a BS in Exercise and Sports Science to Chicago, where I began my Personal Training career at Fitness Formula Clubs – UnionStation. In the beginning, I also took on part time work at XSport Fitness and The Trump Hotel fitness center. I continued working full time at FFC until March, 2012. At that point, I started my own business and began working as an independent Personal Trainer. I currently train out of FitPro West, and Precision Human Performance. Most recently in February, I began some part time work at Tone Fitness in the Willis Tower in addition to seeing my clients at the studios.
I am a huge advocate of continuing education. I strive to keep learning, and incorporate new valuable tools into my clients’ sessions in order to give them an unparalleled exercise experience. I currently hold certifications as a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Specialists (NSCA-CPT), Mastery Level Resistance Training Specialist (RTSm), Muscle Activation Techniques Jumpstart Specialist (MAT), and American Academy of Sports Dietitians and Nutrition Specialists Certified Nutrition Specialist (AASDN-CNS).
Has it been a smooth road?
While with FFC, for me it was a smooth road. For the most part. I became the busiest trainer at our club within my first year of training, and went on to earn an award as the company’s top revenue producer (out of roughly 125 trainers company wide). From then on, I was always the busiest trainer at our club. And consistent. My clientele and revenue was very consistent. Dealing with some corporate things here and there at times was challenging, but for the most past as I continued to hit my numbers, I was left alone. Essentially, running my own business, with the club still keeping its fair share. After nearly 8 years, I reevaluated, worked out some logistics, and started my own business.
As an independent trainer, presently one of the challenges I find is gaining new clients. My stronghold isn’t networking and marketing. I am very confident in front of people and sharing my knowledge with them, but getting them in the door proves to be the challenge. While at a health club, there was a sales staff to feed us new appointments and consultations, which could potentially lead to new clients. Being independent, it is strictly up to me.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Dan Bentz Fitness – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
There are various Personal Trainers, all over the spectrum. Unfortunately, there is no one standardization for the entire Health and Fitness Industry. I specialize and take an interest more with the body’s internal performance by making sure everything externally is applied properly; i.e., joint forces, loads, application. I look at and analyze the mechanics of exercise; it’s not only about the gross movement, but the pieces that play an integral role within the overall puzzle.
I feel like my training style, knowledge base, experience and chosen path of continuing education separates me greatly from my competition. I am not all more, more, more! I don’t focus on counting repetitions. I do not consider myself a meathead, nor a hard-nosed bootcamp instructor. I exemplify proper technique, undivided attention when with my clients, efficiency and progression. I challenge individuals to their current tolerance level and threshold, and look to improve that through the use of micro-progression.
I am most proud of my company’s staying power. I’ve been in business on my own for over 5 years, and do not regret leaving my comfort zone at the health clubs I once worked at. I have a solid retention rate with my current clients, and feel like that rapport, trust and experience is key.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love Chicago! I grew up in Wausau (middle of the state), WI and went to college at the University of WI La Crosse. Chicago just has so much opportunity! It’s a beautiful city year-round, but I do enjoy the spring through fall seasons. I love to run and cycle outside; I don’t enjoy it nearly as much in cold weather. I love the views this city has to offer. And the restaurants, events, bars, museums, etc. It really is a city second to none, in my opinion. The diversity, and all of the neighborhoods Chicago has to offer. Each in unique, and so much fun to explore.
The thing I least like? Other motorists. No signaling before they turn or pull over. Maybe that is true in many places, but I notice it a whole lot here. Many also seem to be oblivious to runners and cyclists.
Pricing:
- 55 minute sessions vary in cost from $100-115. I offer packages of 6, 12 and 24 sessions.
Contact Info:
- Address: Precision Human Performance – 1335 W Lake St, 60607
FitPro West – 564 W Jackson Blvd, 60606
Tone Fitness (in the Willis Tower) – 233 S Wacker Dr, 60606 (33rd floor) - Website: www.danbentzfitness.com
- Phone: 312-217-2776
- Email: dan@danbentzfitness.com
- Instagram: danielbentz
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
