Tandy Heath and Fitness

Tandy Health and Fitness in Cheshire is amongst the thousands of businesses to receive both a loan and post loan support from Start Up Loans. Founded by Rob Tandy in 2023, the studio provides personalised and small group training sessions that celebrate what the body can do, rather than what it looks like.

Rob’s journey into entrepreneurship was fuelled by a desire for greater autonomy and ambition. Dissatisfied with the limitations of his previous workplace, Rob embarked on a mission to create his vision of a fitness studio that not only developed physical strength but also created a sense of community and empowerment.

From the beginning, Tandy Health and Fitness has experienced steady growth, a testament to Rob's dedication and the studio's commitment to excellence. With a loan of £23,000, Rob was able to kickstart his business without delay, investing in high-quality equipment that set the studio apart from the competition.

According to Rob, "Getting the loan has meant that I could start my business when I was ready to start rather than being ready but having to delay while I saved up. Without the loan, I couldn’t have launched with the quality of equipment I now have."

Start Up Loans, part of the British Business Bank, has delivered more than £1bn of loans to over 109,000 businesses since 2012. The main aim of the programme is to ensure viable start-up and early-stage businesses have access to essential finance and support. A Post Loan Support Service is also on offer, giving loan recipients access to free mentoring, online support services, and webinars from Newable and UMi.

Beyond a financial boost, Rob found immense value in the mentorship provided by the Post Loan Support. He worked with a dedicated advisor to identify the tools and resources necessary for long-term success in the ever-changing fitness landscape.

Rob continued: “[The advisor] has added so much value to my business, not just during the time we were speaking, but going forward I’m now aware of so many more resources that I can continue to use for the life of my business.”

For Rob, the allure of entrepreneurship lies in the ability to chart his own course and take full responsibility for the business’ direction. Having worked closely with his Post Loan Support mentor, Rob now feels he has the necessary know-how to take full advantage of his independence. Although the stakes are higher, the support received has given Rob confidence in his decisions, and the sense of empowerment that comes with being in control is still unmatched.

Looking ahead, Tandy Health and Fitness has ambitious plans for expansion. Rob envisions diversifying the studio's offerings and by bringing on new trainers, he aims to transition from working in the business to working on the business.

According to the Start Up Loans Year 3 Evaluation, the mentoring offered has a significant impact on recipients. 80% of people receiving support reported positive effects on confidence in running and managing a business – something which is echoed through Rob’s journey.

Tandy Health and Fitness exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurial spirit coupled with strategic support from Start Up Loans. Through resilience, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence, Rob has built more than a fitness studio—he has created freedom for himself and greater well-being for the community.