Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Harden.
Hi Jake, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Kristen Dillard, I am the Community Director and a trainer at Willow Bend Fitness Club in Plano, Texas. I am writing this on behalf of our owner, and my friend, Jake Harden.
Jake Harden began working as a trainer and a specialist in Muscle Activation Technique (MAT) in 2007. At the time, the gym was known as “Next Level Fitness”, it transitioned to “Willow Bend Fitness Club” in 2009.
By, 2016, Jake built an impressive book of business and was quickly expanding the MAT brand at Willow Bend. Tragically, on September 2, 2016, Jake, and two of his three kids were involved in a major car accident. Thankfully, the Harden family survived, however, Jake endured several extensive surgeries to restore function to his leg.
When Jake returned to Willow Bend, he returned with a passion and a renewed fire for helping others build, heal, and thrive through fitness. In January of 2020, Jake transitioned from trainer and internal business owner of the MAT program, to owner and CEO of the entire Willow Bend Fitness Club.
After successfully guiding the gym through the stormy waters of COVID, Jake has continued to build upon the Wllow Bend Fitness Club empire and provide an exceptional gym experience for the community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been a smooth road for Jake…surviving a massive car wreck, and the aftermath trauma, was extremely challenging. And, purchasing a gym two months before COVID made for a less than ideal start to business ownership. However, all of those challenges only made the success to follow, all the sweeter with an enormous sense of gratitude.
We’ve been impressed with Willow Bend Fitness Club, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Willow Bend Fitness Club: Where Excellence Meets Community
Willow Bend Fitness Club offers an unmatched gym experience in the heart of West Plano. Most of our members come from the office building we’re located in, as well as the surrounding Willow Bend neighborhoods.
Our facility is equipped with state-of-the-art Prime fitness machinery. Since taking ownership, Jake has transformed the space—renovating the gym and upgrading much of the equipment. One of our standout features is an elite golf simulator available exclusively to members.
We’re proud to have a team of over 23 professional personal trainers, with industry experience ranging from 10 to over 40 years. Our diverse training options are designed to meet the needs of individuals at every fitness level.
In addition to our golf simulator, we offer lessons for golfers of all abilities. Our elite golf service includes exclusive access to local courses, personal training, custom nutrition plans, and Muscle Activation Techniques (MAT).
Additional services include:
Personalized Nutrition Coaching for lifestyle, transformation, and competition goals
Massage Therapy by Bruce Matsuno
Wellness Clinic specializing in Hormone Replacement Therapy with licensed medical professionals
Muscle Activation Techniques—a unique and highly effective performance and recovery method
Still, what truly sets Willow Bend apart is our community. Around here, we often say we’re the gym version of Cheers—because at WBFC, everybody knows your name.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
People can get more information and sign-up for a membership or personal training at our website:
www.willowbendfitnessclub.com
Follow us on social media:
Instagram- @WBFit
Facebook- Willow Bend Fitness Club
Follow us and subscribe to your YouTube station:
@PursuitFitnessTX
If you have experienced us, please leave us a Google review!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.willowbendfitnessclub.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wbfit/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willowbendfitnessclub/about/?_rdr
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PursuitFitnessTX
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/willow-bend-fitness-club-plano
