10 Question with Busy Bodies' Lisa Jones

10 Questions, Shoot!

Q: What did you dream of being as a kid?

I had many dreams as a child.  Most of them were entrepreneurial and among them was owning a circus with my best friend Lynnette.  I also dreamed of being a professional figure skater until I started playing hockey.  In high school I wanted to be a dentist but the idea of that many years in college didn't appeal to me, so I took the path of becoming a psychologist.  I was always athletic and became a fitness instructor at the age of 19 as a way to get a free gym membership while in college. 

Q: How does your personality play into your business?

It is key in keeping my business fun and friendly.  I am very empathetic towards those people who have struggled with weight and have tried unsuccessfully to exercise.

Q: At what moment did you decide to open a business?

I decided to open a business after being a fitness instructor and personal trainer for years and realizing that most gym owners had no idea what group fitness was about.  I wanted to offer great classes with even greater instructors with the want, needs and goals of the participants being the focus.  I wanted to offer a place to exercise that was convenient, non-intimidating and friendly.  Most gyms cater to the 20% of the population that exercise.  I cater to the 80% that don't necessarily like to exercise but know they need to.  Most over weight or unfit people get turned off by big gyms and get discouraged very quickly. I want those people to come to my studio; they will always fit in!

Q: What inspired you?

Coming from a hard working blue collar family I needed to tell myself that I could be an entrepreneur and with trial and error I could make it.   Another inspiration was my maternal grandmother who was extremely obese.  I spent my childhood watching people stare, point and make fun of her.  I saw how her obesity destroyed her health and quality of life.  It bothered me that most people couldn't look past her "size" and see the beautiful caring person she truly was.  I wanted to be the personal trainer who saw the beauty in all people.

Q: Describe the biggest challenge of owning a business in the town of Barnstable?

The biggest challenge of owning a business anywhere is almost always financial and trying to make your services affordable and your product desirable.  Also owning a business like mine is very physically exhausting.  Mentally you have to be pretty thick-skinned, as competition can be fierce and sometimes unnecessarily cut throat.

Q: Describe the best thing about owning a business in the town of Barnstable?

I can be within a short driving distance to my home and family I can have a great report with my members as we are all from the same community.  Unlike big "chain" businesses, I can totally relate to my customers and give them the services they need that are unique to Barnstable.

Q: What is one thing you would never change about your business?

 My commitment.  I offer great services with my client's needs coming first and having everyone no matter their age or fitness level always feeling comfortable and with a sense of accomplishment every time they come.  Too many gyms are intimidating and we strive to never have anyone at Busy Bodies feel uncomfortable.

Q: What is your business’ greatest asset?

My wonderfully loyal and supportive members and staff.  I am truly blessed to have them!

Q: What is your favorite spot in town?

Sampson Island and the surrounding ocean.

Q: What’s one thing the community should know about you?

I am a native Cape Codder, single mother of four children, (three in college).  I come from a meager background and have my fitness studio solely out of love for what I do.  I work long hard hours to be able to feel satisfaction in giving my members what they want and deserve.  I'm just a busy mom who owns a cute fitness studio (former oyster shucking shack) in Cotuit teaching spinning, sculpt, kickboxing, bootcamp and more, personal training and trying to remain happy and successful. 

In addition, Busy Bodies has expanded its studio to now offer more yoga.  The Yoga Shack at Busy Bodies offers heated yoga, Kundalini, Restorative, Power, Hoop Yoga, Therapuetic Yoga and more.  We also have massage services and free childcare.