Empowering Kids through Fitness and Fun
Fitness Made Fun, Washington, MO
In a world where competition often overshadows the joy of learning and growing, Naidana Peck saw an opportunity to make a difference. Her journey with Fitness Made Fun began in 2018, driven by a passion for teaching, a love for gymnastics, and a vision of providing children with a space to flourish physically, mentally, and socially.
After gaining experience at three different gyms, including a high-pressure institution focused on producing collegiate athletes, Peck realized that the fun aspect was missing from the equation. Having formed strong bonds with gymnasts she worked with, she saw the impact a coach could have not only on physical development but also on mental well-being. This realization led her to envision a place that embraced the role of a teacher, nurturing children’s growth and fostering positive influences.
What sets Fitness Made Fun apart is its unwavering commitment to fun itself. While gymnastics is at the core of the offerings, the emphasis remains on growth, learning, and enjoyment rather than cutthroat competition. This philosophy is evident in their unique approach to coaching: every year, all coaches attend clinics hosted by USA Gymnastics, ensuring a continuous learning curve and an ever-evolving coaching style.
The challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic showcased Peck’s resilience and dedication. In a remarkable display of community support, she opened an essential workers’ camp, offering limited class sizes to nurses, EMTs, and firefighters’ children. Fitness Made Fun was closed for only a brief period of 3-4 months, reflecting Peck’s determination to provide a safe and supportive space even during uncertain times.
In 2023, Peck embarked on an expansion fueled by a growing waitlist of students and the availability of a larger space. Through collaboration with the Missouri SBDC at Missouri S&T and her local lender, Peck brought her vision into reality.
At Fitness Made Fun, the offerings extend beyond gymnastics. A robust preschool program seamlessly transitions children into kindergarten, instilling confidence and foundational skills. Tumbling, cheerleading, and summer camps provide a diverse range of activities, keeping children engaged and active throughout the year.
Peck’s future goals for Fitness Made Fun reflect her commitment to growth and improvement. Expanding into her larger facility, introducing new programs such as dance, and hiring more employees are all part of her vision to reach even more children and families.
Her advice to fellow entrepreneurs is rooted in humility and continuous learning. She encourages aspiring business owners to seek education before embarking on their ventures, advocating for business courses that lay a strong foundation. Peck emphasizes the importance of asking for help, a lesson she learned from her own journey.
Naidana Peck’s story is one of dedication, resilience, and a commitment to nurturing the potential within every child. Through Fitness Made Fun, she has created a haven where kids can learn, grow, and thrive, guided by the principles of fun, mentorship, and lifelong learning.
