During the pandemic, three construction workers decided to make concrete dumbbells so they could work out in their backyard. Little did they know that 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 bought some concrete to make my own dumbbells. I knew it existed and that it could be done.”
“Then I took treated lumber from my neighbor to build an outdoor gym. I didn’t think I would go into business after that.”
After showing his creations on his social networks, his friends, brothers Alexis and Samuel Bessette, contacted him and asked him to have their own dumbbells too.
“In return, I published videos on my social networks and the reaction was immediate,” explains Alexis Bessette. I pitched the idea to the two boys that we should start our own business, but they didn’t take me seriously.
RocFit dumbbells can stay outside. PHOTO AGENCY QMI, MARIO BEAUREGARD
“After looking at the prices of dumbbells on the market and the cost of producing our equipment, I saw a potential market.”
So they started production. Her first customers were mainly family members and friends.
The project of your life
To create a solid foundation for RocFit, Alexis followed the advice of a business development specialist to take the SME to another level.
“He told me this would be the project of my life,” says Alexis Bessette.
Rocfit products are characterized by their appearance. After shaping, the entrepreneurial trio creates their handmade dumbbells with great care. They also build dumbbell racks, workout benches, and cages for squats.
“A concrete product is perfect for the Quebec climate,” adds Julien Dumont. We can leave them outside and they won’t rust.”
RocFit has several products for sale, but the owners have big plans for the future. PHOTO AGENCY QMI, MARIO BEAUREGARD
One gym at a time
The three entrepreneurs took an important step by quitting their jobs to put all their energy into RocFit.
“It allowed us to develop the entrepreneurial spirit that was hidden within us,” emphasizes Alexis, who was an electrician. It’s been three years since I left my job and I have no regrets.”
RocFit surpassed 1,000 customers last year. The business trio has interesting goals for the future.
“We want to develop gyms with 100% of our products,” says Alexis Bessette. We are planning a complete outdoor gym that can be used both commercially and privately.”
“It could also be new gyms in condo towers or hotel chains in Quebec and around the world.”
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