FROM INTIMIDATING GYMS TO A SAFE PLACE TO START: HOW BRENDON BUILT BBF GYM IN SEMBAWANG

Opening a gym is easy. Keeping it alive, growing, and relevant is the real work.

For Brendon, founder of BBF Gym in Singapore, the journey began long before business plans and rental contracts. It started as a teenager who genuinely loved training, and who eventually realised that what Singapore’s fitness scene lacked was not more machines, but more welcoming spaces for normal people to begin.

Today, BBF Gym is a personal training and buddy training gym in Sembawang that focuses on beginners, people who feel intimidated by big commercial gyms, and anyone who wants a more personal, structured approach to training. In this interview, Brendon shares what nearly broke the business, what kept it alive, and what he believes truly builds a gym that lasts.

The Interview with Brendon, Founder of BBF Gym

Why did you start your gym?

Since I started working out as a teenager, I have enjoyed it up till today. I have always dreamed of opening my own gym and starting my own business.

What problem were you trying to fix in the fitness industry?

The intimidation factor of gyms. I wanted to create a space for people, especially beginners, who always feel intimidated going to the gym to work out. Most gyms are big and crowded, and that can be overwhelming.

What nearly broke the business in the early days?

We, as owners, had very little knowledge about running, operating, and marketing a business.

What kept the gym alive when things got tough?

Our perseverance and self belief.

What does real progress mean to you for your clients?

When clients genuinely feel good about themselves, both mentally and physically, ever since they started working out.

One training principle you will never compromise on?

Warming up and cooling down.

Biggest mistake new gym owners make?

Thinking that a one man show can do it all.

How do you keep coaching standards high?

By staying accountable and sticking to our personal training values.

What keeps members coming back long term?

Clients having a good experience and our quality service.

How has gym ownership changed you personally?

It has taught me to be more realistic and not let my emotions make decisions.

Where do you see your gym in three years?

To be the top personal and buddy training gym in the north area.

One piece of advice for aspiring gym owners?

Really think about what you want your gym and concept to be, and go hard on it. Passion is one thing. Running a business is another. You must draw a fine line.