Kristy Tyler, a former restaurant industry professional turned stay-at-home mom, is gearing up to introduce USA Ninja Challenge to Woodstock, Georgia, creating a dynamic space for kids to build strength, confidence and independence. As a mother of two young girls who are involved in sports, Tyler is using her experience, passion for child development and entrepreneurial spirit to launch this exciting venture. Now, with a strong connection to the local community, Tyler is ready to inspire young ninjas to thrive, set to open her location on January 7th at 185 Stockwood Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock, Georgia 30188.

1851 Franchise spoke with Tyler to learn more about her background, her journey to USA Ninja Challenge and her plans for the future. 

1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?

Kristy Tyler: I’m mostly a stay-at-home mom — my girls are 8 and 6. But I’m not the type of person to sit still. I used to bartend to keep a connection to my old life, but COVID kind of killed the fun in that field, so I retired. I focused completely on my family, which was great, but I wanted to get out more and be social.

We’ve always been involved in activities with the girls — martial arts, swim classes, all kinds of things — and I saw how much fun they were having. I realized how satisfying it could be to work with kids in that space. One day, I was lying in bed looking for a franchise and I stumbled upon USA Ninja Challenge. Something just felt right. The more I learned about it, the more everything clicked. When I had my first conversation with the team, their passion for working with kids and their development was obvious. It felt like a magical connection.

1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?

Tyler: We own some real estate properties and I had started a small home management business. But I realized that without a strong playbook, it’s hard to grow. That’s what drew me to franchising — it gives you a blueprint to build something bigger. Once you find the right fit, the franchise can help you with the structure and guidance you need.

1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?

Tyler: I love that USA Ninja Challenge isn’t a team sport. Kids can better themselves without relying on a team, but their peers are there cheering them on too. My daughter is on a swim team, and one season, all the kids were in the pool except for one child who was upset in the corner. All the coaches were focused on that one kid, and it really disrupted the experience for everyone. With Ninja, the kids are always moving. Once they know what to do, they don’t have to wait for a coach.

I also love martial arts, but Ninja takes it further by engaging the whole body and keeping kids moving. It’s such a perfect fit for me because I’m really into fitness and health.

1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?

Tyler: My goal is to open multiple gyms in the area. I’m hoping that within two years, we can secure a second territory and keep growing from there.

1851: What is the one thing about your story you want us to know?

Tyler: My girls are about the same age as our target market, and they’re very excited. We’ve only had the equipment for 48 hours and they already have calluses on their hands from playing! They’re going to be there all the time, which is also one of the best parts of this for me — I can bring my girls to work!

We’re also very involved in the community. I’m a Girl Scout leader, my husband and I coach soccer and we’ve already reached out to local schools to see how we can work together. It’s all about being connected.

Tyler: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?

Tyler: The biggest thing that changed our lives was hitting that “more info” button on the website. You can’t take the next step unless you reach out. You never know — it could be the perfect fit. But if you hesitate, the opportunity might be gone.

For more information on franchising with USA Ninja Challenge, visit: https://1851franchise.com/usa-ninja-challenge.

ABOUT USA NINJA CHALLENGE

USA Ninja Challenge is the leading kid’s Ninja franchise, offering an exciting obstacle-based fitness experience for children across the United States. Since its founding over a decade ago, USA Ninja Challenge has grown into a trusted brand nearing 40 gyms and more in development. The franchise combines fun and fitness by teaching kids agility, balance, and problem-solving through a series of structured obstacle courses. As the only Ninja franchise partnered with the USA Pentathlon Multisport Olympic Team, USA Ninja Challenge is helping raise awareness for Ninja as an official sport, set to debut in the 2028 Olympics. With low initial investment, high margins, and rapid ROI, USA Ninja Challenge offers franchisees the opportunity to build profitable businesses while making a lasting impact on children's physical fitness and confidence. For more information on USA Ninja Challenge or to learn about franchise opportunities, visit www.usaninjachallenge.com.