Here’s a behind the scenes look at the all new Zenith X Performance & Wellness centre in Brisbane city thanks to the Owner & Founder - Artemio & his journey to getting his dream space to become a reality.
How did you get started in the fitness industry & what inspired you to open your gym?
My journey in the fitness industry began with Olympic Weightlifting, where competing at a national level instilled in me the importance of refining technique before focusing on power and strength. This experience sparked my passion for mastering movement, leading me to study exercise science to deepen my understanding of physiology, anatomy, and movement mechanics. The drive to open ZenithX came from a desire to share this knowledge, helping others unlock their body’s true potential through proper training and guidance.
What was your vision for the gym?
The final vision for ZenithX is to evolve into a total longevity facility that seamlessly integrates performance and wellness. Our aim is to create an environment where movement education takes centre stage in a state-of-the-art performance space (outfitted by Compound, of course). We nurture our clients through our Wellness Grove, offering infrared saunas, ice baths, and Pilates, while nourishing them with an in-house nutrition station and café. To complete the experience, we blend beauty into the mix, featuring services like a barbershop, salon & work from ZenithX Pods.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when first opening your gym, and how did you overcome them?
What I'm good at is leading a team, creating a community and coaching - lease agreements, loans contracts and fit out requirements etc are areas that I most definitely am not familiar with. These were the biggest challenges, trying to navigate those areas without proper education or help would have been impossible. Thankfully the key individuals I was able to connect with assisted and helped me understand what I was getting myself into. Allowing me the time to learn and in turn mature quickly as a small business owner.
What’s been the most rewarding aspects of seeing your gym come to life with the equipment and atmosphere you envisioned?
It's incredible to look back and think that I left my previous job and within a month I had ZenithX and I was trading. Seeing my vision and all the little details that I wanted to include in the space coming to fruition is incredible, it means a lot when my clientele also acknowledge the little things they notice that I put thought into. The premium service we provide is reflected in the premium equipment ZenithX has invested in, just the feel of the equipment itself adds value.
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to start their own gym or fitness business?
"Without Commitment you'll never start and without consistency you'll never finish"....oh and add a buffer to that budget.
What do you believe sets your gym apart from others, and how has your personal journey influenced that uniqueness?
No matter your background—whether you’re a renowned surgeon, a miner, or a data architect—when you step into Zenith X, you can simply be yourself. Leave behind the social expectations and the pressures of your job, and focus on what truly matters: you. Join a community of like-minded individuals all striving to invest in their long-term health and well-being. That's what sets us apart from others.
Looking ahead, what are your future goals for your gym, and how do you plan to continue evolving?
I guess I answered that already in point 2 but in terms of planning for the future I often overthink and this leads to stress which is the last thing I want my clients to feel off me as the founder. So now I've adopted the mindset of having fun and remaining present in the moment - ever since I started Zenith X I always knew to grow I would need to create a team around me with like-minded individuals to help grow the brand and that will come in time for the meantime - remain present and show up.
