Franchisee Voices: Rafael Sanmiguel of GYMGUYZ

After learning discipline while posted in Germany for three years in the military, Rafael Sanmiguel used that dedication to positively impact his own life.

Now he is excited to impact the lives of community members in the Columbus, OH region where he is bringing GYMGUYZ, a mobile brand with a full fleet of trucks that brings state-of-the-art fitness equipment and expert coaches to the Columbus area.

GYMGUYZ stuck out to Rafael because of the company’s mobile aspect and the ability to bring the gym to his clients. The brand actively attracts military veterans through the VetFran Partnership, offering a discounted franchise price. 1851 caught up with Rafael to learn more about his background and plans with GYMGUYZ.

Tell us a little bit about your background.

I was born in Queens and went to the University of Tennessee, where I met my wife who was from South America. I was in the military for three years and was stationed in Germany until we moved to Ohio for my wife’s job at Abbott Laboratories. I started in recruiting and headhunting and eventually made my way into HR, but I had always had a passion for fitness and nutrition. I started to received emails about different franchises and GYMGUYZ really stood out to me. One thing led to another and it was a fit!

Why did you choose to become a franchisee with GYMGUYZ? How did you learn about the brand?

The mobile aspect was a huge factor for me. You can make more of a difference with this type of business instead of a brick and mortar building because you can get closer to the person you are training. I did a lot of intense workouts in the military, but a lot of my knowledge I have learned on my own. I always look to give advice to people who are looking to get fit and be healthy.

What were your perceptions of franchising before starting the process? 

I didn’t know a lot; I just knew that I wanted to have my own business. When I was a kid I started a lawn mowing business in Miami to make money and I did pretty well. I even hired some friends to help me out. I knew with franchising there would be certain restrictions, but it was still a better fit for me for several reasons. There are guidelines already there for you and I’m not extremely creative, but I love to be able to take a concept and build on it.

What’s next for you and your business? Do you have any development/expansion plans with the brand?

I’d love to expand to the New Albany and Dublin, OH areas in the future.