“Honestly, I’ve never looked at any other franchise. I’ve been sold on the Hitsona idea since day one.”

Philippa 'Billz' Jackson felt jaded working as a personal trainer at commercial gyms. However, upon discovering Hitsona’s community ethos and the brand’s exclusive HIT machines Billz was sold on staying in the fitness industry.

Billz opened Hitsona Chertsey in May 2021, and has since built a successful client-base of premium members. Now, there are plans to extend Chertsey’s success to other locations across Surrey.

Why did you decide to open a Hitsona studio?

I found a love for improving energy and fitness by signing up with a personal trainer, after hitting the heaviest I’d ever been. I loved how fitness made me feel and the rewards that followed. I was previously a coach in a different industry so have always loved teaching, coaching, and watching people grow.

I’d previously been a personal trainer at a commercial gym and hated it. When I was offered employment as a coach in a HITZone studio, my love for the industry was reignited. I was always going to run my own business and Hitsona showed me a foolproof model. I was hooked.

I started my own fitness studio a year prior to buying my Hitsona franchise.

How did you decide Hitsona was the right franchise for you?

Honestly, I never looked at any other franchise. I’ve been sold on the Hitsona idea since day one. The business model and the way in which we engage with members is unique. I knew this was the best route to helping people find health, energy, and better wellbeing.

HQ helped with a detailed business plan, daily advice on getting started and operational training in order to hit the ground running financially as well as look after the customers. They pretty much gave step-by-step instructions.

What do you think Hitsona’s unique selling point is?

Our ‘don’t take life too seriously’ attitude to fitness. Fun keeps members coming back and if they keep coming back they get results. The machines make exercise easy-to-follow and effective. The heart rate technology keeps members motivated.

Have there been any difficulties in your Hitsona journey?

Nothing any different to renting an office and running a small business. In all fairness, it’s not very complicated.

The Hitsona HQ team is always on hand to help from a business point of view. I also have a weekly call to discuss operations, marketing, and sales. The ‘just a call away’ attitude from HQ is out of this world.

How would you describe the community at Hitsona Chertsey?

There’s a unique selling point with our machines, as well as our fun community and regular presence on social media. We’re authentic, empathic and a little silly: high fives at the end of each session, celebrating small wins and acknowledging struggles.

We always receive reviews from happy members who’ve seen good results. Although I do prompt them occasionally.

What are your future plans with Hitsona?

Multiple studios, a mini-Surrey-based Hitsona empire, and growing community.