Small Business Spotlight: My Gym Children's Fitness Center

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

Business: My Gym Children’s Fitness Center
Owners: Sara Bastos
Website: www.mygym.com/enfield
Address: 136 Elm Street Enfield, CT 06082

How did you come up with the name? We are a franchise started out in CA.

Why start a business in this town? I am also the owner of the My Gym Children’s Fitness Center in West Hartford, CT. We noticed a lot of our guests for classes and birthday parties in West Hartford were traveling from Northern CT and Southern MA. In doing some research and speaking with our clients from these areas, we soon realized the need for a children’s based business like ours in the Enfield area. It was a very organic move.

Briefly, what business are you in? We offer structured, age-appropriate, weekly classes that incorporate music, dance, relays, games, special rides, gymnastics, sports and more for children ages 6 weeks through 13 years. We also host birthday parties at the gym. All our birthday parties feature nonstop action-packed activities, games, puppets, songs, zipline rides and more!

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner? Branching out and opening a second location. I am extremely hands on in both gyms so splitting my time and making sure not only the children and families but my staff are getting my full attention has been an adjustment.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening? I have received back to back recognition awards as an outstanding My Gym Franchisee for all the amazing work we do with the children. I am also proud to have been elected to the My Gym Franchise Advisory Board where I am a voice for all franchisee’s.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community? My Gym Enfield proudly sponsors kids fun runs within the community where staff can be seen warming up the children before their big race. We also are a proud sponsor of The My Gym Challenged America Foundation (MGCA), committed to providing assistance and support to children with physical/cognitive challenges.

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@patch.com.