We had the good fortune of connecting with Nigel Swift Chandler and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nigel Swift, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I had a vision and God ordered my steps for me to run my own fitness business. I was working two corporate jobs prior to starting SwiftTime Fitness LLC. One of those jobs allowed for me to learn the logistics of running my own business and the other actually opened the door for my dream to become a reality. Starting out I didn’t know all the hurdles I would have to overcome one major hurdle was becoming a full time fitness entrepreneur during COVID. I thought to myself LET’S WORK and I developed a plan on how I wanted SwiftTime Fitness to look, feel and function. The next step was execution which for me has been the most rewarding part because as of today I have helped hundreds of people achieve their ultimate fitness goals and I have been a successful business owner for 5 years!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am the most proud about the growth of my business. I look forward to expanding SwiftTime Fitness via online services, mentoring the youth about the importance of physical activity, starting meal preps as well as pre & post workout drinks/smoothies. FAITH helped me to achieve the success of where I am today!! There were many factors that have contributed to my success but having faith that this dream was put in my heart and on my mind by God is the reason for my continued success. SwiftTime Fitness LLC could have just stayed a dream but I decided to put in effort and leave a legacy behind for my son. I want to show him through my hard work, discipline and dedication that anything his puts his mind to he can achieve. Even when faced with challenges I want him to know that Faith can see him through anything.
There were many challenges along the way. It was a risk to even form this business on paper and bring it to life during a time when everything in the world was uncertain. Betting on myself and taking that risk showed me that I can thrive as an entrepreneur. I don’t look at risk negatively because for me risk has been a motivator. It has allowed me to make strives within my business and the fitness industry. I have developed a SwiftTime Fit Gym app, Certified A1 meal plan and SwiftTime Full Body HIIT App (no equipment) that has allowed for companies like Bang Energy to take notice of my business and offer me a trainer sponsorship. I find fun in the journey of risk taking. It propels the force within me that wakes me up day to day in a career that’s exciting, engaging enjoyable.
The fitness industry is ever-changing and some of the information that is being shared on social media could push you further away from your fitness goals. There is a lot of hard work, preparation, & new methods that come about within the industry. I believe finding the right personal trainer is just as important as finding the right medical provider. We’re here to help you maintain a healthy body and mind. I’m constantly and consistently educating myself on exercises, body mechanics, nutrition/diet fads and disease processes like Diabetes and Hypertension. Each of my clients come to me with different needs so nothing is copy and pasted at SwiftTime Fitness LLC. I’m excited to provide each of my clients with individual training plans. Ultimately, I want an outsider not to be intimidated by fitness because with the right trainer you can meet your goals and beyond.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love this question because I love my city!! On the weekends I enjoy renting the bikes & riding around in the Heights. There I stop by Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar & LaLa Land Kind Cafe for a matcha. Also while in the Heights I like to visit Buchanan’s Native Plants & eat at Lola which is also byob. I like to take my friends & family that visit to city centre because of the variety of attractions where you can eat, drink, play, & shop. I also like Mary’z Lebanese Cuisine for small bites & hookah. For grown & sexy party vibes I love Lincoln Bar & Little Woodrow’s on Saturday & Chapman & Kirby & 5015 on Sundays. Since Houston is such a big & diverse city there is always something new to experience. I look forward to this new restaurant called Dove’s Restaurant & Lounge which has an all female kitchen staff. Then of course I always start my day by getting my workout in at the House Fit Factory.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
With every step that I’ve taken in my process there have been a community of people that have helped me learn and grow within this journey. Among a few to acknowledge, I have been blessed with my business and life mentors Kesha Washington, Fred Wilson & Camille. Though their advice may be a hard critique to hear and do at the time they have given it to me and stayed with me through it all. My family has played the most pivotal role in my career journey. My parents, Otis and Shiree Chandler, have actively pushed me to never give up even when I was frustrated and at my breaking point. They have been a shoulder for me to lean on during hard times and a crutch when I need help. My mom has filled the void of being my assistant on numerous occasions which helps with a lot of the behind the scenes work. My younger sister, Kenyatta Chandler, has been a helpful aide during my process. She has provided knowledge in nutrition and diets as well as assists when I need her help in staffing and program development. She has also been my support when I’ve needed to shed a few tears. Last but not least my son, Tahj, has been my backbone. He smiles & provides the happiness that I need when times get hard. He stays active & actually performs the workouts that I create providing input on most of the exercises. I’ve had a few cousins, Jerry, Alneada, Kim, Tory, Eric, Jamey, that have supported, provided feedback, & financially assisted along the way as well. With so many people in my village all I can say is that I am blessed beyond measure!

Instagram: @swifttime_fitness

Facebook: SwiftTime Fitness

Other: Email: swifttimefitness@gmail.com

Image Credits
Louie Galvez (louiegalvezphoto.com)

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