Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathrin Kropilak.
Hi Kathrin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey started in Germany, where I was born and raised, before moving to Florida. Fitness has always been a big part of my life, not just physically, but mentally. I’ve always believed that movement is powerful and that taking care of your body changes the way you show up for everything else in life.
Before opening my own studio, I worked in various operational and leadership roles, including serving as Chief Operating Officer at another local studio. That experience allowed me to combine my passion for fitness with my business background and really understand what it takes to create a thriving fitness community. Over time, I felt this strong pull to create something of my own, a space that reflects my philosophy about health, strength, and community connection. That’s when Munique Fitness was born.
Munique Fitness isn’t just another gym. It’s a place where people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can come together, feel seen, and grow stronger, physically and mentally. My mission was never about chasing numbers or trends, but about building something that genuinely makes a difference in people’s lives.
Opening my studio in Venice was a dream come true, but it wasn’t easy. There were challenges, from finding the right space to building it out from the ground up, to opening as a solo entrepreneur while wearing every hat imaginable. But I believe when you lead with passion and stay true to your “why,” everything else falls into place.
Today, Munique Fitness is more than a fitness studio; it’s a community. It’s a place where people support each other, celebrate each other’s wins, and push each other to be better. My goal is to help people realize that fitness isn’t just about losing weight or looking a certain way; it’s about progress, empowerment, feeling stronger, and creating a lifestyle.
If my story inspires even one person to believe that they, too, can turn their passion into something meaningful, then it’s all worth it.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Definitely not a smooth road, but I think that’s what makes the journey so rewarding. Opening a business, especially from scratch, comes with challenges you can’t always prepare for. From the outside, people often see the success, the classes, the energy, the community, but behind the scenes, there’s a lot of hard work, sleepless nights, and moments of doubt.
When I decided to open Munique Fitness, I did it on my own. I thankfully had the support and help of my amazing husband, Chris, who runs his own business, and my family. But I didn’t have a team yet or a corporation behind me; I just had a vision and a lot of determination. I had to find the right space, design it, build it out, handle the permits, order equipment, and market it, all while teaching classes and training clients. There were times when it felt overwhelming, but giving up was never an option.
Another big challenge was opening a studio that stands out in a market where there are already gyms and fitness centers everywhere. I didn’t want Munique Fitness to be “just another gym.” I wanted it to feel different, a place where people truly belong, where they feel comfortable, motivated, and part of something special. It takes time to build that kind of trust and community, but seeing it grow every day reminds me why I started.
I’ve also had to learn to balance being a business owner, coach, marketer, and sometimes even a handyman, all rolled into one. But each challenge has taught me something valuable and made me stronger. Every struggle, every obstacle, has shaped Munique Fitness into what it is today. A reflection of passion, perseverance, and belief that anything is possible when you love what you do.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Munique Fitness, we focus on helping people become the strongest, healthiest, and most confident version of themselves, no matter their age, fitness level, or starting point. I specialize in strength and conditioning, personal training, and nutrition coaching, with an emphasis on sustainable progress and long-term wellness. I’m also certified in health coaching and menopause fitness, which allows me to support women who are often overlooked in the fitness space, helping them understand how their bodies change and how to train and eat in a way that works for them, not against them.
What I’m most proud of is the community we’ve built. Munique Fitness is not a “come in, do your workout, and leave” kind of studio. It’s a place where people feel seen, supported, and encouraged. Our members cheer each other on, hold each other accountable, and genuinely want to see one another succeed, inside and outside the gym. I’ve always believed that fitness should empower, not intimidate, and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’ve created.
What sets Munique Fitness apart is our focus on education and empowerment. My incredible team of certified and educated instructors don’t just tell people what to do; we teach them why it matters. We talk about nutrition, recovery, sleep, and mindset. We celebrate small wins and focus on functional strength, so our members not only look strong but feel strong and capable in their everyday lives.
As a business owner, I’m proud that everything we’ve built has been from the heart. No fancy gimmicks, no fads, just genuine care, knowledge, and passion for helping people live healthier, happier lives. Watching our members grow, gain confidence, and realize what they’re truly capable of is what fuels me every single day.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Venice is the strong sense of community. Even though it’s a small town, it feels vibrant and connected. Local businesses truly support one another, and you can feel that genuine spirit of togetherness everywhere. From community events to casual conversations at the farmers’ market. There’s something really special about being part of a place where people care, show up for each other, and take pride in their town.
As for what I like least, and I say this with love, the summers can definitely be challenging for small business owners. It’s our slow season, which can be tough, especially for newer businesses that rely on consistent traffic. But at the same time, I try to see it as an opportunity, a chance to reset, get creative, plan ahead, and refocus before the busy season starts again. Every challenge comes with a lesson, and I think that’s part of what makes owning a business here so rewarding.
Pricing:
- Monthly Membership is $159 a month
- 10-Class Pass is $165
- Personal Training Sessions for new clients start at $410
- Personal Training Packages start at $580
- Drop In Class is $24
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.muniquefitness.com
- Instagram: @munique_fitness_venice
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muniquefitnessvenice
Image Credits
Sherry Marti for the 2 professional pictures.
