Young Entrepreneur: Christie Ness

Get Spun is a King West hotspot for cycling, Pilates, and GRAVITY classes. You may have passed by or even taken a class at this innovative studio, but what might surprise you is the woman behind the business. The owner, 29-year-old Christie Ness, started Get Spun three years ago when she was only 26, and has not only kept the space alive but also populated by a loyal clientele of young professionals and King West types. Her studio has been featured everywhere from Toronto Life to FASHION to Breakfast Television on CityTV. We caught up with Christie to learn more about this vivacious blonde.

Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
Get Spun is a neighbourhood boutique fitness studio where you can truly and effectively achieve all of your fitness and health goals in a safe and friendly environment. Small innovative classes, comfortable atmosphere, and amazing instructors have all helped to create such a loyal client base.

Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
I worked in finance for many years and woke up one day realizing that I had the opportunity to better utilize my entrepreneurial spirit. Having been a classically trained ballet dancer, I wanted to go back to my roots and take my love of spinning and Pilates to share with others. King West was booming and I knew the opportunity was there now and for the future.

What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Best part: Getting to wear workout gear everyday and seeing people’s bodies change dramatically. The most challenging? Being a one-woman, organically grown business competing against the big box gyms.

Where do you see your business going in 5 years?
Another few Get Spun Studio’s in the city and who knows…maybe even in my home town of Vancouver.

What does success look like to you?
Success is feeling fulfilled and being truly happy from your accomplishments and being able to humbly share it with your friends and loved ones.

What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Reaching 2,500 clients who have taken a class at Get Spun. My big dream of having my own studio coming true.

Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
It all starts with a good idea, followed by passionate execution and a whole lot of blood, sweat and tears – it’s worth every bit.

Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Yes, The Toronto Humane Society because I have dear love for animals and think they all deserve to find a good home and CMHA (Canadian Mental Health Association) because it affects so many people and not enough of us talk about it.

What is Notable to you?
Notable is carrying yourself with grace and poise and never being intimidated by the next challenge. It is not what happens to you, but how you choose to deal with it.

Get Spun is located at 129 Spadina Ave., Suite 2 in Toronto. 416 850 0843