We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kelvin Brown a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Kelvin, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
I started my business, IAmFitnessMemphis, LLC, to make a positive impact in my community. The passing of my mother at the age of 48 due to hypertension, and my father at the age of 36 due to a diabetic stroke, my brother losing both kidneys at age 44 due to hypertension, and losing my grandfather at age 58 of a diabetic stroke. These losses ignited a passion for fitness within me. I channeled my grief into gaining knowledge and established a successful fitness center in Memphis, TN. My fitness and wellness center operates on a community-based model, with the primary goal of addressing health disparities in the African American community through fitness and nutrition education. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, I empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being.
Kelvin, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am the Owner and Certified Master Trainer of IAmFitnessMemphis, where I am committed to educating the minority community about nutrition and exercise science. Our outreach aims to uplift the African American population while promoting healthier living and longevity. We believe that access to accurate information empowers individuals to make informed health choices and enhance their well-being. My clientele primarily consists of African American men and women, particularly those over 40.
My services include personalized fitness training, nutrition education, and specialized programs designed to help clients achieve their individual health goals.
I do not advocate for supplements; I believe in the natural order of things. I trust that God has provided everything on this earth for us to be healthy. I take pride in offering a safe and affordable environment for individuals who are committed to adopting a healthy lifestyle, with the aim of uplifting the community and enriching it with knowledge and opportunities for improvement.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
I started my business following the untimely passing of my mother, which deeply affected me. I found myself struggling with depression and had allowed my weight to reach 300 lbs, accompanied by unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle. Recognizing that I was on a destructive path, I knew I needed to make a change.
I began my journey by working towards becoming a Certified Personal Trainer. I became my first client, and in 18 months, I successfully lost 50 lbs. and eliminated the need for over seven medications. This transformative experience revealed my God-given purpose. My pain became the fuel for my passion, and for the past 21 years, I have been dedicated to my role as a successful Master Trainer, Nutritionist, and small business owner.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
I have been fortunate in my tenure to have a high client retention rate, with my clients staying with me for an average of 5-6 years. I take pride in positioning my fitness center as a refuge where clients can escape the stresses of life. We genuinely consider ourselves a “Family of Fitness.”
Referrals and word-of-mouth have been major sources of growth for my clientele. I am honored that my clients serve as walking billboards for my business, as they embody the heart and spirit that contribute to my lasting success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://WWW.IAMFITNESSMEMPHIS.COM
- Instagram: iamfitness_by_york
- Facebook: Kelvin IamFitness Brown
