Motherhood is a journey that can sometimes feel like a lonely road. The days are long, and the nights can be even longer, filled with worries, questions, and the never-ending need to do it all. But for Kristen and Nicole, owners of FIT4MOM Greater NW Chicago Suburbs, the road to finding their strength as mothers and entrepreneurs wasn’t just about figuring out how to handle the day-to-day — it was about building a community that made them feel seen, supported, and empowered. Their story is one of connection, growth, and the powerful bond of motherhood, all of which began with a simple class and blossomed into something far greater than they ever imagined.
Helping Moms Rediscover Themselves Through Movement
FIT4MOM x Nicole Fraser & Kristen Knobloch
From Stroller Strides to Franchise Owners: How It All Started
Kristen’s journey with FIT4MOM began in 2015, shortly after her family moved to a new town. Like many moms, she was adjusting to the challenge of motherhood while feeling a bit disconnected from her new community. While picking up her kids from preschool, Kristen noticed a mom walking through the park district with a stroller and a yoga mat. Intrigued, she wondered what class the mom was attending. After a few months of silently wondering, Kristen finally mustered up the courage to ask. That was the beginning of her FIT4MOM journey.
That friendly mom invited Kristen to a Stroller Strides class, and after her first session, Kristen was hooked. She raved about the experience to her husband, who, in turn, surprised her with a FIT4MOM membership. By the fall of 2015, Kristen had become an instructor, and the rest, as they say, is history. Little did she know that one conversation would lead her to a community that would change her life forever — both personally and professionally.
Nicole’s story was a little different, but equally serendipitous. As a mom of three, she was scrolling through Facebook one night when she saw a post about a FREE Stroller Strides event at her daughter’s preschool. Being the “free stuff” lover that she is, Nicole couldn’t resist and decided to show up the next morning with her 11-month-old. The class, complete with swag and raffle prizes, was the perfect opportunity to check out what FIT4MOM was all about. Just like Kristen, Nicole was hooked from the first class. Within six months, she became an instructor, and less than two years later, she and Kristen found themselves buying the franchise.
The “Why” Behind the Franchise: Creating a Village
For both Kristen and Nicole, the decision to take the next step and become FIT4MOM franchise owners wasn’t about just running a business; it was about preserving and growing the community that had given them so much. Their “why” is rooted in the emotional and physical support they received from FIT4MOM when they first became members. They didn’t want to see that community disappear, nor did they want to see it fall into the hands of someone who wouldn’t understand its value.
In 2016, they made the bold decision to buy the franchise and ensure that the community they loved would continue to thrive. They wanted to create a space where other moms could experience the same sense of belonging, support, and empowerment that they had found in their classes.
The Power of Support: Growing Together
Owning a FIT4MOM franchise has never been a solo journey for Kristen and Nicole. The support they’ve received — both from within their local community and from the broader FIT4MOM network — has been invaluable. When they first became franchisees, they leaned heavily on the advice of Brittany Bachman, a mentor who guided them through membership pricing, sales strategies, and how to balance their heads with their hearts in business decisions. The advice they received early on still impacts the way they run their business today.
Kristen also benefited from serving on the Franchise Advisory Committee (FAC) for two terms, where she built lasting professional and personal relationships with other franchisees. Today, she continues to swap ideas and advice with her fellow franchise owners and instructors via Marco Polo and other channels. These connections have created a tight-knit community that supports each other through challenges and celebrates wins, big and small.
Nicole’s experience with the FIT4MOM ProTeam has been equally enriching. Being part of this small group of instructors and franchisees has helped her become a better business owner, instructor, and mom. She is constantly amazed by the talent and knowledge within the FIT4MOM community and feels grateful for the opportunity to learn from others who share the same passion.
More Than Just Fitness: Finding Purpose Beyond Motherhood
Like many moms, Kristen and Nicole initially joined FIT4MOM to stay active and connected. However, the experience of building a community and discovering a purpose beyond motherhood was a game-changer. Both women credit FIT4MOM with helping them rediscover who they are outside of being moms. They have found a new sense of identity, one that allows them to help other women — not just as mothers, but as individuals with their own passions, goals, and dreams.
For Kristen and Nicole, being a franchise owner has given them the opportunity to have it all: the flexibility to be there for their kids while also pursuing a career that they love. Their business allows them to show up for their families during important milestones while still having the freedom to run a successful business that brings joy and fulfillment.
The Flexibility to Put Family First
One of the biggest reasons Kristen and Nicole chose to pursue a FIT4MOM franchise over a traditional 9-5 job was the flexibility it offers. Both women knew that being present for their kids — whether it was attending a soccer game, a dance recital, or a school play — was a top priority. With the demands of motherhood, finding a career that didn’t conflict with family time seemed nearly impossible. But FIT4MOM provided them with the perfect balance.
Now, with their children growing up and becoming more involved in sports, dance, and school activities, the flexibility to work around their schedules has become even more important. For Kristen and Nicole, family comes first, and their ability to adjust their business hours to fit their families’ needs is something they cherish.
Encouraging Other Moms to Take the Leap
For moms who are considering taking on a new passion project or business venture, Kristen and Nicole have this advice: “If you want to make a meaningful impact in the lives of women in your community and help them rediscover themselves, owning a FIT4MOM franchise might be the perfect fit. It takes heart, love, grit, and flexibility, but the rewards are immeasurable. Just like motherhood, it’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly fulfilling.”
The Sisterhood of FIT4MOM: A Village Like No Other
When asked what they love most about being FIT4MOM franchise owners, Kristen and Nicole both agree that it’s the deep connection to the FIT4MOM community — both locally and nationally. FIT4MOM truly is a sisterhood, and the support from fellow owners and instructors makes the challenges of running a business easier to navigate.
Their village isn’t just about business; it’s about building real, lasting friendships. Kristen and Nicole have seen their moms form deep bonds, and those friendships have been a source of strength during difficult times. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about emotional support, shared experiences, and lifting each other up.
For Kristen and Nicole, FIT4MOM isn’t just a fitness program; it’s a lifeline for moms seeking connection, self-care, and empowerment. Through their journey, they’ve built a business that allows them to stay connected with their families while making a positive impact on the lives of other women. They’ve found purpose, fulfillment, and a community that has supported them through thick and thin.
Whether you’re looking for a fitness community or considering becoming a franchisee yourself, Kristen and Nicole’s story shows that FIT4MOM is more than just a workout — it’s a movement that helps moms rediscover themselves, find their village, and live their best lives.
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