Where Mothers Sweat and Children Play
Faye Gaidatzis turned a personal challenge into a thriving business model: in her fitness studios in Zurich, mothers work out while their children play – a concept that has won over many. Her journey shows how passion, innovation, and support can lead to something great.
Born in Zurich in the mid-80s, Faye Gaidatzis completed a commercial apprenticeship and a design course at the School of Art and Media Design after finishing her compulsory education. But her heart always belonged to sports – the office job was merely a means to an end. At the time, she wasn’t quite sure what that end would be.
While still working in an office job, Faye began teaching fitness classes and offering personal training sessions. But the birth of her first child turned her life upside down: “If I’m feeling this way, then many other mothers surely are too,” she realized, as she struggled to balance fitness and motherhood.
The Idea: Fitness for Mothers – with Children
This “aha” moment marked the beginning of Faye’s special class concept for mothers: children were welcome to come along and play freely while their mothers exercised. The offering struck a chord – her courses at a Zurich community center were fully booked in no time.
Ahead Goes Active
Faye wanted more. In early 2023, she found a suitable space for her very first studio. For financing, she turned to Zürcher Kantonalbank, which referred her to the support program Ahead. Faye immediately impressed us with her idea – and we impressed her with our advice. “The support from Ahead was fantastic – I always felt taken seriously and very well guided.”
Success Across the Board
The first studio was a success from the start – so much so that Faye soon opened a second one. Both studios continue to grow and contribute to better work-life balance. But that’s not Faye’s only goal: she wants to run the studios as a family business together with her husband. We wish her the best of luck – not that she really needs it.
Studio Faye Gaidatzis
Dora-Staudinger-Strasse 8
8046 Zürich
fayestudio.ch
hoi@fayestudio.ch