Remarkable Regional Business – Episode 39 (Part One)

Guest: Lou Hopwood, Owner

Business Name: Lou Fit Personal Training

Website: https://www.loufitpersonaltraining.com.au/

Topics Covered:

/ Building a Thriving PT Business in a Town of 12,000

How do you grow and sustain a successful personal training studio in a regional town at the base of Mt Buller? Louise shares the story of building Lou Fit Personal Training over 15 years in Mansfield, and what it really looks like behind the scenes.

/ Creating a Community-First Studio for Ages 10–83

Lou unpacks how she’s created a genuinely welcoming space for people aged 10 to 83 – from the “one-percenters” and small personal touches that make clients feel seen, to turning her gym into a true community hub rather than just a place to work out.

/ Pivoting to Virtual and Building a Hybrid Model When COVID hit

Lou pivoted overnight to virtual classes to keep her clients moving and connected. She explains how that shift not only kept the doors open but also evolved into a hybrid model that still serves her regional community today.

/ Designing Memberships for Real Regional Life

From uni students and “mature moves” clients to farmers juggling seasons and long hours, Lou shares the creative ways she packages memberships so people at different life stages can still access consistent training and support.

/ Consistency, Women’s Health and Competing Kindly

Lou talks about running women’s health events for eight years, why consistency matters so much in small towns, and how she chooses to “compete kindly” in a crowded local fitness market – believing there are “enough people for everyone” if you stay in your lane.

This is Part 1 of the conversation with Lou – jump into Part 2 next to hear more of her story and practical wisdom for regional business owners.