During the pandemic, three construction workers decided to make concrete dumbbells so they could work out in their backyard. Little did they think this idea would lead to the creation of their company, RocFit.
“I just wanted to practice. I wanted to lift heavy, says Julien Dumont. I went and bought some concrete to make my own dumbbells. I knew it existed and it was doable.”
“Then, I took some treated wood from my neighbor to make an outdoor gym. I didn’t think I would go into business afterwards.”
After showing his creations on his social networks, his friends, the brothers Alexis and Samuel Bessette, contacted him to also have their own dumbbells.
“In turn, I published videos on my social networks and the response was immediate,” explains Alexis Bessette. I pitched the idea to the two guys that we should start our own company, but they didn’t take me seriously.”
RocFit dumbbells can stay outside.
PHOTO AGENCY QMI, MARIO BEAUREGARD
“After looking at the prices of dumbbells in the market and the cost of producing our equipment, I saw a potential market.”
So they started production. Their first customers were mainly family members and friends.
The project of a lifetime
In order to establish a solid foundation for RocFit, Alexis followed the advice of a business development specialist to take the SME to another level.
“He told me that this would be the project of my life,” says Alexis Bessette.
Rocfit products stand out for their look. After unmolding, the trio of entrepreneurs produces their hand-made dumbbells with great care. They also build dumbbell racks, exercise benches and cages for squats (squats).
“A concrete product is perfect for the climate in Quebec,” adds Julien Dumont. We can leave them outside and they won’t rust.”
RocFit has several products for sale, but the owners have great plans for the future.
PHOTO AGENCY QMI, MARIO BEAUREGARD
One gym at a time
The three entrepreneurs took an important step by leaving their jobs to put all their energies into RocFit.
“It allowed us to develop our entrepreneurial spirit which was hidden within us,” emphasizes Alexis, who was an electrician. It’s been three years since I gave up my job and I have no regrets.”
RocFit has exceeded the plateau of 1000 customers in the last year. The trio of businessmen have interesting goals for the future.
“We would like to develop gyms with 100% of our products,” says Alexis Bessette. We plan to have a complete outdoor gym that could be developed both commercially and residentially.”
“It could also be new gyms in condo towers or hotel chains in Quebec and around the world.”